I’m a maximalist, but Laura Harrier’s capsule wardrobe has me considering investing in these monotone staples
A case for the capsule wardrobe—and where to shop for timeless staples


As an unabashed maximalist whose mantra has always been “more is more”, no one is as shocked as I am that lately, the looks that have been stopping me mid-scroll are more of the capsule wardrobe variety.
The capsule wardrobe flies in the face of maximalism—it’s the ultimate embodiment of less-is-more and a kind of offshoot of the minimalist movement, a trend I’ve always shied away from.
The basic idea is that a carefully curated edit of versatile, timeless pieces makes for endless outfit combinations without the clutter. Sure, I could understand the appeal of a wardrobe where everything works in harmony—neutral tones, classic cuts, and fabrics that stand the test of time—but I never thought it’d be something I’d buy into. Until now.
The reason: Laura Harrier, who has been executing the chicest monotone looks—and in Paris, a city packed to the rafters with chic minimalists and during Paris Fashion Week.
Laura Harrier's enviable capsule wardrobe
Shop The Look
The looks are a classic high-low mix of storied fashion labels (Saint Laurent and Toteme) and relaxed athleisure staples, like New Balance’s 990 running trainers.
Of course, no capsule wardrobe would be complete without a classic white tee, and Harrier opts for one of the baby tee variety (another quiet trend that has been steadily bubbling away). Fine knit tees, often slung nonchalantly across the shoulders, and oversized tailored coats serve to add sartorial punch to otherwise pared-back looks.
A pair of black shades invariably rounds out Harrier’s outfits and are an eternally chic choice especially when teamed with Saint Laurent’s beloved 'Le 5 à 7' handbag.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
Ultimately, every piece in Harrier’s arsenal is intentional, timeless, and can be mixed and matched with ease. I guess the real appeal is freedom from the endless “What should I wear?” decision fatigue. I can’t say I’ll be relegating all my animal print, faux fur, and ridiculous coat collection to the back of the closet just yet, but as I find myself questioning my own overconsumption, the “less is more” philosophy starts to feel less like a restriction and more like freedom.
Shop Laura Harrier-Inspired Wardrobe Staples
The Coat
The Knit
The Bag
The Jewellery
The Shoes
Mischa Anouk Smith is the News and Features Editor of Marie Claire UK.
From personal essays to purpose-driven stories, reported studies, and interviews with celebrities like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and designers including Dries Van Noten, Mischa has been featured in publications such as Refinery29, Stylist and Dazed. Her work explores what it means to be a woman today and sits at the intersection of culture and style. In the spirit of eclecticism, she has also written about NFTs, mental health and the rise of AI bands.
-
These are the 11 pieces I’m eyeing from Whistles’ new in section to upgrade my Spring wardrobe
From crisp striped shirts to denim staples
By Sofia Piza
-
Lila Moss just wore Kate Moss’ trusted outfit formula
It’s official: The blazer and skinny jeans combo is back
By Mischa Anouk Smith
-
Amal Clooney’s archive outfits are on my workwear 2025 mood board
Looking to invest in a capsule wardrobe? Here’s where to start
By Mischa Anouk Smith
-
These are the 15 basics every woman should have in their wardrobe
Consider this the ultimate styling cheat code
By Penny Goldstone
-
Looking to upgrade your transitional wardrobe? These new collections will have you covered for all occasions
In partnership with Phase Eight
By Jazzria Harris
-
If you're looking to build out your capsule wardrobe, this new limited-edition collection will do just the trick
In partnership with Hobbs.
By Zoe Anastasiou
-
I'm a fashion editor, and this is my trick to keeping capsule wardrobe outfits interesting
It's all in the accessories.
By Zoe Anastasiou
-
I am a fashion editor and these are the capsule wardrobe essentials I swear by
All about that mix and match.
By Zoe Anastasiou