The 'Enough' Wardrobe Is Trending - Here's Why It's Good For Your Bank Balance

Goodbye fleeting trends, hello hardworking wardrobe staples …

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On Instagram, style influencers have been leaning into the trend of the ‘enough’ wardrobe. The idea is that if you have solid base pieces in your wardrobe – that is a reliable pair of jeans, a knit that goes with everything, a great pair of boots, and so on – then you can fashion them into any number of looks, rather than constantly needing to search for something new.

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A post shared by Tash Sefton (@tashsefton)

In a similar vein, the 333 challenge has seen tastemakers challenge themselves to create a host of outfits from just nine key components in their wardrobe – three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes (see Irish style influencer Louise Byrne’s edit below).

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A post shared by Louise ~ asimplestyle (@louise.byrne_)

Are these simply trending moments online that change week upon week? Sure. But, much like the de-influencing trend which took hold last year, these challenges make us conscious of consumption which, given the world produces 92 million tonnes of textile waste each year, can only be a good thing. As a viewer, it reinforces the idea of trendless, timeless dressing and for investing in pieces with longevity – not to mention the importance of a good capsule wardrobe.

It comes at a time when brands that champion refined silhouettes and low-key luxury make waves in the fashion landscape. According to fashion idex Lyst, demand for The Row went up by 93 per cent in the final quarter of 2023. (This is in part thanks to its much coveted Margaux bag – a luxurious and discreet brown leather tote – that has seen an increase in searches of 198 per cent year on year. See our edit of similar bags here.) Equally, new labels at Brown Thomas this season, By Malene Birger and Matteau, share a similar penchant for simple pieces that can be worn season upon season: micro trends need not apply. While these brands aren’t cheap by any stretch, it doesn’t all come down to high end labels, rather quality. Seek out pure wool or cashmere knits on the high street (M&S, Uniqulo and H&M will come good here), ensure your winter boots are made from leather, not synthetic materials, track down an amazing belt to rival Khaite’s cult Benny belt from a vintage store, buy a pre-loved designer blazer on Vestiaire Collective, have a piece you’ve inherited from your mother, sister or a friend tailored or repaired; there are multiple options.

While not everyone may have the budget for investing purely at a high level, the message is clear: choosing the right wardrobe foundations not only cuts on consumption, it’ll save you money in the long run. And, while the most sustainable thing, naturally, would be to shop what’s already in your wardrobe, if you need a little help finding some good basics, we’ve gathered a starter pack of great staple pieces below.