Stylist Lawon Mpame shares his seasonal essentials for building a capsule wardrobe for the festive season and beyond.
Silly season is well truly in full swing and with the weather hitting freezing temps it can be difficult to find that balance of warmth and functionality while still maintaining some level of style.
Fret not, as it so happens, the festive season is my absolute favourite when it comes to fashion. I like to think I have the perfect capsule collection to get you through every Christmas party, be it a glitzy or an post-work celebration that requires a more casual approach to style.
In addition, I've added a collection of items that will bring you right up the new year.
From the must-have essentials, the standout coat, the party season piece to those head turning dancing shoes, this is a versatile capsule collection for everyone.
The turtleneck
I love turtlenecks, they are a true staple in my wardrobe. The moment the temperature even drops slightly, I'm already wearing one. The trick is to get two types. A merino/cotton blend one, light, breathable perfect for layering with a suit, a jacket or coat when it’s cold but not cold enough for the second option.
The second option being a chunky one. Only break this out in case of severe cold weather, which we have been having. The trick with the chunky one to avoid being too warm, is to keep the layering to a minimum with the chunky turtleneck and jacket. Trust me it’s all you need.
Black, grey, burgundy, camel tone and navy are your best friends. These tones will work harmoniously with every outfit you curate.
The head-turning dancing shoes
I love a good slip-on loafer. When it's party season time and there’s a lot of dancing required I want something sleek, elegant and edgy. Perfect for paring with a suave elegant party look, these shoes are incredibly stylish and will definitely have heads turning in all the right ways.
I would wear them with some tuxedo trousers, a turtleneck, some accessories and lastly an opulent double
breasted jacket. They will work well with black tie and will even give the look an edge. After all it’s about standing out, not blending in.
Functional and stylish jackets
Puffer jackets are one of those pieces that I genuinely feel everyone should own. There’s a beautiful balance of style and functionality that I love about them. Be it smart casual, casual, streetstyle or incorporating them into a smart look they are absolutely perfect and absolutely versatile. It’s something I highly recommend adding to the capsule collection.
The must have travel accessory
Travel is more than likely something that most of us may have to do over the Christmas period and I think a good weekend bag fits into this capsule collection.
It’s an essential that you will use visiting loved ones for the festive season or if you are taking a much needed break to unwind over the next few weeks. It is an all-around weekend that can also be used as a garment bag. It folds your suit or blazer neatly into the shape of the bag protecting it from creasing. Inside is plenty of space, shoe pockets on each side, and a zip pocket. Needless to say, it's perfect for traveling.
The ultimate Chelsea boot
Versatility is the name of the game and I always think it’s best to invest in pieces that are versatile when curating your capsule collection. These boots are perfect with any smart casual or casual look. I love a suede finish, but top tip is to get a suede protector so they don’t get ruined.
The party piece
There’s nothing more opulent, elegant and classy than a velvet blazer or dinner jacket. If you are attending a party that requires something special, this is it. Green mightn’t be your first pick but curated with the right pieces like the dancing shoes, the accessories and the turtleneck, this is one look that will definitely have guests swooning over you.
Magpie-ing
When it comes to accessories, more is more. Gold, silver, stones, pearls - take your pick. But accessorise! It will be the cherry on top for your looks regardless of the occasion. They are super super versatile and work with everything.
To for more fashion inspiration, follow Lawson @lawsofstyle_ on Instagram.
