THE JOURNAL
Can you ever build a wardrobe that will never, and we mean never, go out of style? If you’re familiar with the idea of “capsule wardrobe” – a style insider reference that indicates a selection of versatile, timeless staples that can be styled with one another to cater a variety of occasions and dress codes – then the answer is yes. And if you’ve read our recent guide, you’ll even know a trick or two.
Essentially, it all comes down to stripping down our sartorial essentials to the bare minimum and sticking to a handful of interchangeable staples that you can pick – and pair – with your eyes shut. Still need a little inspiration? We’ve asked a few members of the MR PORTER Team to put together what they think makes the perfect do-it-all, wear-everywhere wardrobe, all courtesy of the latest collection from Mr P.
01. The must-have Oxford shirt
“An Oxford shirt will never not be a wardrobe staple and this green striped option from Mr P. ticks so many boxes. Ever adaptable, it can be worn down with a chic pair of shorts or elevated with chinos and espadrilles or loafers. I love that this piece can make its own statement, with its slightly raised stripes adding a hint of texture. Conscious consumption practices are always a high consideration when I shop and the fact that this Oxford shirt meets MR PORTER’s Consciously Crafted criteria is a huge plus.” Mr Kwesi Amoasi, PR & Communications Executive
02. The open-knit cardigan
“Easy to wear, easy to throw on, I can see this piece working just as well with a T-shirt as it does over a buttoned shirt. A cardigan really is that wardrobe staple you’ll grow old with. Particularly if it’s as airy as Mr P.’s open-knit style, which will take me from breezy summer nights to a reliable mid-layer come autumn.” Mr Rae Fernandez, Senior Creative Designer
03. The everyday sneakers
“Sometimes the simplest option is the best. Clean, comfortable and part of the MR PORTER Consciously Crafted edit, these white tonal Alec sneakers are a marvel. They can easily be worn as part of a modern tailoring look for a non-traditional, playful edge or with a pair of shorts and a crisp white tee when the weather heats up again.” Mr Kwesi Amoasi, PR & Communications Executive
04. The essential suit jacket
“No man’s wardrobe is complete, well, ever. But certainly not without a black single-breasted suit. Hence why you’ll find this wool-twill jacket in Mr P.’s Permanent collection of everyday staples (and in my Wish List), as well as adhering to the Consciously Crafted code.” Mr Jim Merrett, Chief Sub-Editor
05. The smart suit trousers
“Got the jacket? Then get the matching trousers. Tailored from certified wool twill, with a slim profile, these two mighty items combine to become something akin to a Power Rangers Megazord – the perfect suit for almost any occasion.” Mr Jim Merrett, Chief Sub-Editor
06. The timeless white T-shirt
"I can always rely on a white T-shirt, whether I'm just wearing it with a pair of jeans or underneath an unstructured blazer. When in the market for the perfect one, I look for a relaxed fit and a fabric construction that's soft to the touch. This Mr P. style fits the bill – it also has a QR code on the label, which you can scan to handily access tailor-made digital content including detailed care information, origin story and styling advice." Mr Luca Ostacchini, Art Director
07. The versatile Derby shoes
“I like a smarter shoe with versatility, one that can be dressed up or down and can look good for the everyday. This pair from Mr P. looks the part with anything from jeans, a sporty sock and shorts combo or tailored trousers. And the supple leather that they are made from has been vegetable-tanned, so they’ll look even better after years of wear.” Mr Rae Fernandez, Senior Creative Designer
08. The adaptable jeans
"Everyone needs a pair of jeans in their wardrobe, right? I like mine to look like a pair I've owned for a while, which is why I chose these from Mr P.'s Permanent lineup. They’re cut from organic selvedge denim that’s been washed for a worn-in appearance. And the slim fit is achieved after a careful examination of every measurement." Mr Luca Ostacchini, Art Director