As a fashion editor, I’ve spent years curating and refining my capsule wardrobe—a collection of timeless, versatile pieces that form the foundation of my style. If you’re unfamiliar, a capsule wardrobe is essentially a tightly edited selection of items chosen because they can be worn in countless ways, season after season. The goal is to streamline your collection, cutting out excess in favour of quality, function and versatility. Think classic button-downs, tailored trousers and outerwear that transitions seamlessly from season to season.
What I love about a capsule wardrobe is its year-round relevance. The key to mastering one, especially as the seasons change, is focusing on tried-and-true pieces that can easily be layered or swapped depending on the weather. For autumn and winter, this means adding a few essentials like knitwear, a great coat and tailored trousers. Over the years, I’ve become more selective about where I shop for these staples, gravitating towards a few brands that consistently deliver on quality and style. And luckily for me, four of my go-to destinations are all conveniently located in one spot: Coal Drops Yard.
Nestled in the heart of London’s King’s Cross, Coal Drops Yard has become my go-to for more than just building out my capsule wardrobe. The beautifully designed space offers a dynamic blend of experiences, from a thoughtfully curated selection of boutiques and high-street brands to an array of dining, cultural, and lifestyle offerings. It’s incredibly convenient—just a short walk from King’s Cross station—and offers a refreshingly calm atmosphere, making it a welcome escape from the usual hustle of London shopping spots. With brands like A.P.C., American Vintage, Uniqlo, and COS, it’s the ideal destination for finding elevated staples that will last season after season.
But what truly sets Coal Drops Yard apart is how it balances fashion, food, and culture, all in one place. Alongside its standout boutiques, it’s home to top-notch restaurants like Mare Street Market (my personal favourite for a post-shopping lunch), as well as a rotating calendar of events and exhibitions. Right now, it’s gearing up for the VOGUE: Inventing the Runway exhibition at Lightroom, which celebrates Vogue’s profound influence on fashion and runway history. Running from 13 November 2024 until 26 April 2025, it’s a must-see for any fashion lover. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or exploring culture, Coal Drops Yard offers a fully immersive experience.
On my latest venture to refresh my autumn wardrobe, I made a beeline for a few stores in search of the perfect capsule updates.
When it comes to button-downs, A.P.C. is a real favourite. A classic shirt is a capsule wardrobe essential, and the minimalist aesthetic of A.P.C. fits right into my style. The brand’s button-downs are beautifully made, with clean lines and subtle detailing that make them easy to pair with just about anything. I’m a fan of the simplest cotton designs, which are ideal for layering under knits or blazers during the colder months. I picked up a white tailored shirt that will work just as well under my favourite cardigan as tucked into a pair of jeans. It’s the type of piece you can rely on to elevate even the most casual look, and it’s a prime example of why I always make sure to swing by A.P.C.
Next, I stopped by American Vintage, where I always find the softest, most luxurious knits. Knitwear is a year-round staple for me (I live in London), but during autumn and winter, it truly becomes the backbone of my wardrobe. I’ve been wearing American Vintage knits for years, and I love how the pieces feel both cosy and polished. The brand’s sweaters come in the perfect range of neutral tones and textures, making them ideal for layering. Whether I’m running errands in a chunky knit and leggings or pairing a sleek turtleneck with trousers for the office, American Vintage always delivers. This time, I picked up a classic cardigan in a warm lemon shade—exactly the kind of piece I’ll be wearing on repeat through the colder months.
No capsule wardrobe is complete without a great coat, and for that, Uniqlo is my go-to. Uniqlo’s outerwear is high-quality, functional and stylish, all at an accessible price point, allowing us to invest in a capsule piece without breaking the bank. The Ultra Light Down coats are winter essentials; they’re warm enough for the coldest days, yet sleek and compact enough to layer under heavier wool coats when needed. I decided to go for a classic grey double-breasted version that will easily transition from chilly morning commutes to weekend walks in the park. Uniqlo’s attention to functionality without sacrificing style makes the brand an obvious choice for this essential.
Finally, I headed to COS for the pièce de résistance of any capsule wardrobe: tailored trousers. If I had to pick a favourite item from my entire collection, it would be a pair of classic trousers. They are the definition of versatile: equally perfect for a day at the office or a weekend brunch. COS makes some of the best trousers on the market, from streamlined, straight-leg options to the wide-leg, tailored styles that have become a modern staple. I went for a pair of black, pinstripe, high-waisted trousers that are as comfortable as they are sleek. The cut is immaculate and they drape just right. They work effortlessly with a chunky sweater for a more relaxed look or paired with a button-down for a sharp, polished ensemble. For me, tailored trousers are the glue that holds my wardrobe together, and COS always delivers on fit and quality.
All in all, my trip to Coal Drops Yard was a breeze. Being able to visit four of my go-to stores for capsule pieces in one stylish, easy-to-navigate space makes the process of updating my wardrobe incredibly simple. There’s something about the curated selection of brands and the beautiful setting that turns a shopping trip into a truly enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking to build your own capsule from scratch or add a few high-quality pieces to your existing wardrobe, Coal Drops Yard is, without a doubt, the place to go. With everything I need just a short stroll apart, it’s become my go-to destination for curating my wardrobe essentials—and I know I’ll be back when spring rolls around for another refresh.
Browse more stores at Coal Drops Yard here.
