Yet another year is dawning upon us. Naturally, it is time for a wardrobe change!

Ever heard of the 80/20 fashion theory? On a day to day basis, we wear basic pieces (blouse, shirts, pants etc) which makes up 20% of our style. The other 80% comes from trendy items such as coats, blazer, seasonal prints, patterns and accessories.

Capsule Wardrobe is a collection of 15 to 20 pieces in your wardrobe, which gives you an effortless approach to dressing and is a worthwhile investment. This is ideal for fashion savvy consumers who want to dress to impress, elongate the duration of an outfit’s wear-ability and choose outfits that are most compatible to his/her sense of style.

For the year 2011, your fashion capsule should temporarily single out monochromatic colours such as black and white. The year’s colour chart has shifted to neutral colours and warmer colour schemes with an emphasis for romance.

In the development of your capsule, be mindful  when selecting your apparel by applying the 80/20 rule. Here are some handy reminders to execute the 80/20 rule to your 2011 capsule wardrobe.

Staple vs. Seasonal.  Include 80% of staple designs (turtle, rounded, V-shaped necklines; straight, boot-cut pants, pencil skirts) in staple colours such as navy, khakis, beige and red. Then add in 20% of trendy tops (bowtie neckline, animal prints, checks patterns), high-waisted 70’s pants, embellished jackets, and coats.

Colours. Opt for nude shades, red tones and shimmery pieces to enhance the softness of your skin tone. 20% items in midnight blue and silver, grey shades will last till  the end of 2011.

Silhouettes.  Fluid-like silhouette including soft fabrics such as silk, light cotton, knits are the best materials to have in your wardrobe. Optionally, look for pieces with ruffles, frills or drapes. 

Durability.  When developing your capsule, never compromise price over quality. Your capsule will provide you comfort, fit and durability to last you at least 2 seasons. Look for something with better stitching, dye and finishes. Read labels, acquire the product’s origin, materials and care labeling for better maintenance of your clothes.

Splurge when necessary. Your capsule should ideally have a statement piece - that wow piece that makes heads turn and jaws drop. Splurge cleverly on this one item that may even cost above RM700. Buy something  that you will wear repeatedly and justify this with how much it’ll cost each time you’ll wear it, rather than the cost of the piece itself. A simple cardigan from TARA JARMON (RM1999) is an example of a statement piece which is matches almost anything and suitable in any occasion.

Accessories. Return to the classics with printed scarves, thin belts, bangles, hair bands and shades to add femininity and a touch of romance your look. For your capsule, you should have at least 2 different chunky necklaces, 1 scarf (checked pattern is best), 2 vintage bangles and earrings to help accentuate your outfit.

Here are 6 looks that can be achieved with 2 statement pieces.