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The Art of the Capsule Wardrobe

A men’s guide to effortless style

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Image courtesy Zegna

Ever feel like your closet is overflowing yet you still have “nothing to wear?” You’re not alone. The paradox of choice can leave us paralyzed by indecision. But there’s a solution: the capsule wardrobe. This concept isn’t just about having fewer items in your closet; it’s about having the right items that blend seamlessly to create an array of outfits suitable for any occasion.

Image courtesy Zegna

Say goodbye to the cluttered closet! Create a capsule wardrobe – a minimalist marvel of interchangeable, high-quality essentials. Picture 007’s wardrobe during undercover missions or Steve McQueen’s collection: timeless pieces crafted from luxurious materials, all curated in a chic, summery neutral palette. This epitomizes fashion efficiency at its finest.

Now, let’s delve into how to construct a minimal capsule wardrobe:

ESSENTIAL CLASSICS

This category comprises the most essential staples necessary as the foundation for any outfit, including formal trousers, jackets, and suits. Having two or three colors of each item will streamline the process of selecting an outfit. Opting for a monochrome range is consistently contemporary and elegant.

Image courtesy Dries van Noten
Image courtesy Dries van Noten
Image courtesy Fendi
Image courtesy Lemaire

LAYERING BASICS

The layering pieces guarantee that outfits maintain their allure. This encompasses plain sweaters, shirts, and button-down shirts. Incorporating a scarf can effortlessly lend a modern bohemian touch to a sweater, complementing every contemporary man’s style. Shirts stand out as the staple heroes of the season, ranging from pocketed designs to long tunic-inspired styles.

Image courtesy Zegna
Image courtesy Ferragamo
Image courtesy Fendi
Image courtesy Bottega Veneta
Image courtesy Jacquemus

STATEMENT PIECES

Statement pieces not only elevate the outfit but also infuse it with personality. This encompasses leather items, coats, blousons, and unique accessories. Bags offer a fresh expression, catering not only to frequent travelers but also adding stylish pragmatism to men’s daily routines. Emphasizing high-quality and luxurious pieces is an investment for life.

Image courtesy Bottega Veneta
Image courtesy Ferragamo
Image courtesy Ferragamo
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Image courtesy Jil Sander
Image courtesy Burberry
Image courtesy Dior
Image courtesy Ferragamo

Here an ELLE selection of Egypt’s  fashion brands for men: 

WASEEM KHADRA

As a socially conscious entrepreneur with a philanthropic background, Waseem Khadra has already showcased fashion shows in 2022 and 2023. His vision encompasses a spectrum from tailored pieces to casual, soft shirts, infused with a touch of bohemian vibe. Waseem aims to foster a world built on comfort, honesty, and integrity. Individuals who don Waseem Khadra creations are socially astute men who appreciate their own worth and exude both physical and personal ease. For a relaxed yet stylish appearance, Waseem Khadra offers the most breathable linen shirt in a deep blue hue.

Image courtesy Waseem Khadra
Image courtesy Waseem Khadra

AHMED HAMDY

Ahmed Hamdy Designs introduced a pristine Italian fashion trend in 2015. From its inception, the brand has embodied a distinct personality, crafting Egyptian clothing and setting higher standards for men’s fashion in Egypt. Ahmed is a master of tailoring, with a particular expertise in linen suits that reflect his Mediterranean sensibility, ideally suited for the laid-back vibes of the North Coast.

Image courtesy of George Adeeb for Ahmed Hamdy

UDJAT

Introducing Udjat, named after the Eye of Horus, an Ancient Egyptian symbol representing protection, royal power, and good health. Udjat merges craftsmanship and modernity by incorporating Siwan embroidery and traditional weaving from Upper Egypt, reimagined as essential elements of a relaxed Egyptophile’s wardrobe, ideal for a life of poetic wandering from oasis to oasis.

Drawing inspiration from the traditional Egyptian wardrobe, Ancient History, and centuries-old traditions upheld by skilled local artisans, Udjat offers original, contemporary, and wearable garments, accessories, and unique lifestyle objects. Committed to revitalizing endangered traditional handicrafts and promoting responsible manufacturing through sustainable, low-impact production methods, Udjat collaborates with rural artisan communities and refugees. By doing so, it seeks to empower men and women often marginalized in traditional economic circles.

Image courtesy Udjat
Image courtesy Udjat
Image courtesy Udjat

BABLERICH

Dedicated to reshaping luxury menswear in Egypt, Bablerich offers an unmatched selection of bespoke suits crafted by visionary designer Abdelrahman El Bably. Each Bablerich piece epitomizes superior tailoring craftsmanship, meticulously curated with the finest Italian and English fabrics. Our mission is to cater to the refined tastes of discerning gentlemen, providing an exclusive experience that seamlessly merges tradition with innovation. Abdelrahman El Bably is crafting a legacy of elegance and sophistication for those who appreciate that true luxury lies in the details.

Image courtesy Bablerich
Image courtesy Bablerich
Image courtesy Bablerich

JARII

Jarii, a luxurious innovatively classic brand that aims to uplift the senses of the Middle Eastern market with a bold vision of handmade shoes and clothing. The name is derived from the essence of the word “bold” in Arabic. Jarii dedicated to design and produce leather mules since 2020, followed by limited edition leather jackets.

Image courtesy of Jarii
Image courtesy of Jarii

Remember, your capsule wardrobe should mirror your lifestyle. If you work in a professional environment, include more formal pieces. If your days lean towards casual, prioritize comfortable basics. The crucial point is to customize your capsule according to your specific needs.

Discover our favorite trends from the SS24 menswear shows.

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