The Rugged Elegance Capsule is an example of a custom capsule wardrobe we created for our client Mark Perkins in Chicago.
Mark knows the frustration of finding clothes that fit. At 6’4” 250 lbs, Mark, a former strength & conditioning coach turned medical sales professional, has always had a hard time shopping for clothing that works for his muscular frame... So of course, everything would need to be custom-made for him.
Since he didn't have much that fits well ("if it fits thighs, it's huge in the waist - and if it fits my shoulders it's a balloon at my belly") we figured it would be a good idea to design a capsule that covers a lot of ground (for business, nights out, to-and-from the gym, etc) while also locking-down some timeless, versatile pieces that we can continue to build his wardrobe around with future orders.
And since Mark is in Chicago (famous for their cold and windy winters) I figured we should start with some hard-wearing outerwear and work our way down from there, giving him lots of options to easily style each garment for a variety of settings.
Mark's capsule includes 18 items that can be mixed-and-matched (in any combination) to create at least 100 different outfits - with effortless combinations for any occasion. See the image gallery for some of the outfits we were able to photograph.
THE 18 ITEMS
1. Corduroy Trouser
Our Corduroy Trouser is one of the most lovable - and wearable - garments in all of menswear. There's a reason stylish gentlemen have worn the fabric for hundreds of years. It's smart, sophisticated and rebellious all at the same time. Not to mention it's heavy-duty, can take a proper beating (it looks even better with broken-in character) and is one of the most versatile fabrics in the game.
2. Sean Fine Merino Turtleneck Sweater
The Sean Fine Merino Turtleneck Sweater is a classic turtleneck with an updated fit made from a super-soft, lightweight fine Italian merino yarn that is extremely comfortable and versatile.
3. Crawford Ribbed Merino Cardigan
The Crawford Ribbed Merino Cardiganis a chunky cardigan sweater in a beefy 2x2 ribbed merino wool that is warm, elegant and delightfully cozy. It's slightly oversized, making it perfect for wearing on its own or layered under a coat or jacket. With both function and style, it will be hard to find a sweater that can do more than this.
4. Dicky Long-Sleeve Cotton 2-Button Polo
The Dicky Long-Sleeve Cotton 2-Button Polo is a classic, stylish, and comfortable long-sleeve polo shirt that can be worn year-round and styled with virtually anything in your wardrobe. Crafted from super soft Italian pima cotton, it is designed to be worn tucked in or untucked. Consider this your go-to "base layer" that you can dress up or dress down in countless ways. Made in America, this polo offers both timeless style and sustainable craftsmanship.
5. Hamilton Elevated Performance Crewneck Sweatshirt
The crewneck sweatshirt is one of the most iconic casual garments in the history of American menswear. Everybody from Rocky Balboa to James Dean to Michael Jordan sported one of these - both during workouts and just for chilling. Ours is an elevated version. Whether you're hitting the gym, the game, the bar, a casual office, or working from home - grab this Hamilton Elevated Performance Crewneck Sweatshirt for comfort and style.
6. Hamilton Elevated Performance Sweatpants
Our Hamilton Elevated Performance Sweatpants are an updated slim fit pair of sweatpants that are sharp enough to dress-up and hard-wearing enough for the gym or a long run. Made from our famous elevated performance fabric, these are designed to flatter the physique and built to last.
7. Herringbone Wool Blend Overcoat
Our Herringbone Wool Blend Overcoat is a handmade bespoke overcoat crafted from a classic herringbone fabric with a perfect balance of warmth, durability, and softness. The substantial weight provides exceptional insulation, making it ideal for colder weather. The classic herringbone pattern adds a touch of sophistication and the texture is unmatched.
8. Moleskin Peacoat
Our Moleskin Peacoat is hand-made from our famous heavy-duty moleskin fabric. Moleskin is a thick and sturdy brushed cotton that is built to last and known for getting better with age. As you break-in this coat, it will develop a beautiful patina that is charming and full of character.
9. Oxford Shirt
Our Oxford Shirt is hand-made, cut from the famous pure cotton oxford fabric. This is a thick and sturdy cloth that is legendary for toeing the line between casual shirt and dress shirt. An absolute wardrobe essential.
10. Stretch Flannel Suit
The Stretch Flannel Suit is a sophisticated choice for the cooler months, blending style and comfort effortlessly. Crafted from a premium blend of 98% wool and 2% elastane, this suit provides excellent stretch while maintaining a refined appearance. With a fabric weight of 300 grams, it offers warmth and a cozy feel, making it ideal for fall and winter occasions. The suit can be split into separate jacket and trousers, allowing for versatile outfit combinations, making it a staple for any modern capsule wardrobe.
11. Wool, Silk & Linen Hopsack Jacket
Our Wool, Silk & Linen Hopsack Jacket is crafted from a luxurious blend of wool, silk, and linen with distinctive hopsack weave which offers a contemporary twist on classic tailoring. The unique hopsack structure adds textural composition to the fabric, while the blend of natural fibers ensures breathability and comfort.
12. Harris Tweed Trucker Jacket
Our Harris Tweed Trucker Jacket is crafted from sturdy harris tweed from the UK. This unique fabric provides the traditional character and charm of a harris tweed and is durable enough to be worn throughout the harshest seasons.
ACCESSORIES
100+ OUTFITS
Using only 18 these items, here are some of the outfits Mark can create at least 100 different outfits....
Everything works together in any combination (he can't make any mistakes) and he can easily (and quickly) create outfits for any occasion - from formal, to business, to casual.
This allows him to get the most out of each item and keep a cohesive, streamlined closet.
1. Business or Special Occasion
2. Winter Version
3. Coat Swap
4. Go-To Four Season Jacket
5. Elegant Separates
6. Business Casual
7. Office to Dinner
8. Date Night
9. Casual Cool
10. Smooth Evening
11. Cozy King
12. Rugged & Refined
13. Day toNight
14. Brunch Master Flex
15. Cocktail O'Clock
16. Casual Client Meeting
17. Sweater Weather
18. Brunch Master Flex
19. Client Entertaining
20. Smart Comfort
21. City Run-Around
22. Elevated Gym Attire
23. Post Lift Beer
24. Suit Jacket Doubles as Blazer
25. Hard-Working Seperates
26. Year-Round Texture Blend
SHOP THE CAPSULE
There are a lot more outfit combinations Mark could create using only these 18 items...but I think you get the idea.
For more information, including pricing and customization options, click here:
The Custom Capsule Experience
Want to edit this capsule or make your own?
Book a call with me to get started.
I look forward to working with you!
Yours in style,
Dan Trepanier