Any sophisticated fashionista will tell you that the number one tip for looking chic is to build a capsule wardrobe. Well-made basics in quality fabrics and neutral colours will enable you to mix-and-match an endless array of eye-catching looks. It all starts with a strong foundation of versatile pieces, such as figure-flattering pants and relaxed tailored jackets, that form the basis of every stylish ensemble. Then style them with a beautiful blouse and elevated accessories for a sophisticated look or keep it “laidback luxe” with a gorgeous top and some statement shoes.
When the sun is shining, who has the time to be standing in front of a jam-packed wardrobe complaining there’s nothing to wear? Get the foundations right and you’ll have your wardrobe working harder for you, while you relax and enjoy a well-earned stylish summer break. Here’s our top picks:
The “Goes with Everything” Jacket
Could there be a harder-working wardrobe staple than the jacket? This versatile item adds instant polish to your outfit. During the warmer months, hang up your corporate coat and update to this smart, casual option. It still adds structure to your outfit but is lightweight and has a more relaxed, comfortable fit.
Black Pepper’s Panama Linen Jacket ticks all the boxes in terms of the perfect summer blazer. It’s 100 per cent Linen, so it’s breathable while being incredibly stylish in the dreamy summery hues of Flint and Spring Blue. This jacket is a natural fit with linen pants or shorts, but works equally well with white or light wash jeans, flowy skirts or worn over the shoulders with a summery floaty dress. This summer jacket is a definite must-have.
The “Dress it Up, Dress it Down” pants
While dresses and skirts definitely have their place, a quality pair of pants will be your go-to when the mercury rises. Cool, breathable fabrics make pants, such as the Panama Slim Leg Pant and the Pavana Short Leg Short, hardworking essentials all summer long.
The Panama style is 100 per cent linen and comes in the colour Flint, a very versatile beige shade, while the Parvana style is a mix of cotton and spandex and is available in the colours Beech (cream), Ink (navy) and Sprout (khaki). Both stunning styles have a drawstring waist, convenient pockets and are a very flattering ⅞ length, making them as practical as they are comfortable.
On a sunny day out, go “smart casual” and wear them with a nautical-style top and white sneakers, or pair them with a linen jacket for an impressive work look or a fabulous long lunch. You can even dress them up with a glamorous top, statement earrings and some strappy sandals for a sophisticated summery evening with friends. Flattering, comfortable and versatile, these pants are the obvious choice to add to the “can’t live without” category in your capsule wardrobe.
The “Transformative” top
Once you have your base pieces sorted, the key to taking your wardrobe from wonderful to “Wow!” is to add a pop of colour or texture with statement tops. Mix and match these pieces in with your neutrals to expand your wardrobe in a variety of ways.
Once again, these hero pieces need to be of excellent quality in breathable fabrics, so that not only are they stunning to look at but they are cool and comfortable to wear.
When an ordinary T-shirt just won’t do, the Chelia top fits the bill; it is an elevated crisp white top crafted from 100 per cent cotton with a glamorous diamond print pattern in summery beige and blues. And don’t forget the alluring power of a flirty blouse.
The Karsyn Blouse is 100 per cent Rayon that gives it a soft silky feel while the pale green, blue and orange shades are the epitome of summer. These tops have nailed the flattering brief – with each featuring a relaxed fit, short sleeves, round neck and curved hem. It’s these little extras in your wardrobe that will take it from ordinary to extraordinary!
Win 1 of 10 $500 Vouchers
Right now Black Pepper are running an Australian Women’s Weekly exclusive competition. To be in the running to Win 1 of 10 $500 Black Pepper vouchers, click here, and simply sign up to Black Pepper’s mailing list by 10th October 2023. You’ll be in the running to win, be kept up to date with special offers and become a VIP member of the loyalty program to be rewarded throughout the year.
To start building your stylish spring/summer wardrobe today, shop Black Pepper, both online and at selected stores.
