Interesting Capsule Wardrobe?

[Restorer]

I'm 5'7'', size 10-12, so this really shouldn't be so hard

I've recently changed my life completely and moved from wearing suits most days, to more casual, although still smart, no jeans on work days.

I need a complete new wardrobe. I'd like to build it gradually using decent quality pieces (by which I mean £35 for a top, rather than £4.50 iyswim, not proper high end)

I had my colours done for a bit of fun and guidance, but I 'm not completely convinced it's going to change my life. I'm a sweet pea summer, which means no black. and I'm more than happy to give it a go, as I'd like to be a bit more colourful.

Anyway, I want a simple, easy to wear wardrobe, but I'd like it to be a bit more interesting that plain trousers and t-shirts. What would you suggest I need?

Accessories! Scarves, necklaces, bracelets etc that are easy to wear (don't catch on clothes, stick out too much to put a jacket on etc) make everything look more interesting.

Stay away from too many plain t-shirts - I occasionally fall into the plain/striped t-shirt 'n' jeans trap and end up feeling v boring. Some plain t-shirts essential though

Some interesting trousers or skirts (to go with that small number of plain t-shirts).

Stick with your summer neutrals - french navy, dark blue grey, soft white, mushroomy browns etc - for the hard working basics (decent trousers, versatile tops etc) and add in the colours anywhere you want.

this blog has some really good advice, I think.

I also read somewhere that you should choose one (or two) neutral colours, an accent colour and start from there. Then you want 3 of everything: trousers, jackets, skirts, dresses, tops, knits, bags, scarves etc - 1 in your neutral, 1 in your accent, 1 in a pattern incorporating neutral and/or accent.

What colours are you meant to wear as a sweet pea summer? I think dresses can work really well for a more relaxed work wardrobe, ditto slim trousers and blazers. Have you got anything at the moment that you really like - that might be a good starting point?

Are you me? I've been doing Project 333 since December, which has helped massively. I've also had my colours done and am a vibrant autumn (hopefully, I will e-mail you back, too busy thinking about stuff!).

So I'm clearer now on colours and quite militant about fabrics and quality, so a maximum of 25% polyester or viscose. I'm also reawakening my love of nice fabrics - cashmere, velvet, soft cord.

H&M are quite a good starting point for basics and things to layer with, which gets you away from the jeans and t-shirt rut. Pinterest is also an ongoing addiction of mine.

Thanks Queen, that looks really interesting