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Totême Capsule Wardrobe: The Only Pieces You Really Need

You want the good stuff without the clutter, right? Totême nails that balance: clean lines, luxe fabrics, zero fuss. You can build a whole wardrobe from a handful of pieces and look like you “just threw it on” while fully plotting world domination.

Let’s cut the noise and focus on the Totême capsule items that actually pull their weight.

Why Totême Works for a Capsule

Totême lives in that sweet spot between minimal and interesting. You get sculptural silhouettes, a strict palette, and fabrics that feel expensive without screaming for attention. It’s quiet luxury that still has a point of view.

The result? Everything works together. Tops tuck into trousers, coats slide over knits, and shoes ground the whole thing. No calculus required, no “what goes with what” panic.

The Core Palette and Silhouette

You’ll win faster with a limited palette.

Totême leans into black, cream, camel, grey, and navy. If you want a little spice, add olive or chocolate. That’s it.

For shape, think structured on top, relaxed below—or vice versa. Totême builds ease into cuts: wider trousers, boxier coats, simple knits. You can mix silhouettes without looking over-styled.

Fabric Rules to Shop By

– Wool and cashmere for coats and knits

– Crisp cotton poplin for shirts

– Fluid silk or satin for dressier pieces

– Midweight denim with minimal stretch

– Real leather for boots and belts FYI: fabric = longevity.

One great wool coat beats three flimsy ones. Every time.

The Only Pieces You Really Need

Let’s build the capsule. These are the heavy hitters that handle weekdays, weekends, and “oh no, I have dinner in 30 minutes.”

1) A Statement Coat (Yes, the Totême Coat)

Totême’s signature coat is iconic for a reason: big collar, clean lines, room for a knit.

It’s the piece you throw over anything and instantly look finished. Look for:

– Double-faced wool for drape and warmth – Slightly oversized fit – Neutral color: black, camel, or grey

2) The Sculptural Blazer

A Totême blazer gives structure without a corporate vibe. It’s boxy, cool, and surprisingly versatile.

Wear it: – Over a tee with straight denim – With tailored trousers and loafers – Over a slip skirt for dinner

3) The Perfect Knit (Crew or Turtleneck)

Choose one chunky knit and one fine-gauge sweater. Totême’s knits hold shape and don’t pill if you treat them nicely.

Pick: – Cashmere or wool blend

– Black or camel for one, a light cream or grey for the other

– Slightly cropped or boxy to balance wide-leg pants

4) Crisp White Poplin Shirt

This is the glue piece.

Totême cuts shirts in a slightly oversized silhouette that looks intentional, not sloppy. Wear it: – Half-tucked with denim – Under a blazer with trousers – Open over a tank with a slip skirt

5) Tailored Trousers

You need one pair you can dress up or down. Go with a mid- to high-rise, straight or wide leg.

Key details: – Sharp crease, minimal pocket bulk

– Wool or wool blend for structure

– Hemmed to your shoe height (don’t skip this—you’ll thank me)

6) Straight-Leg Denim

Totême’s denim fits clean through the hip with a straight leg that hits the ankle. It’s ultra polished but still jean-y. Choose: – Mid or high rise – Washed black or classic indigo – Minimal distressing (none, ideally)

7) Slip Skirt or Column Skirt

If you wear skirts, this one does it all.

A satin or crepe slip skirt handles office, dinner, and weekends without drama. Style it: – With a chunky knit and boots – With the poplin shirt and blazer – With a fitted tank and sandals

8) The Everyday Boot

A sleek, almond or square-toe leather boot adds edge. Flat or low heel keeps it practical.

IMO: black leather first, suede second. Suede looks luxe but needs babying.

9) The Elevated Flat or Loafer

If boots feel heavy, loafers keep it polished. Minimal hardware, clean shape.

Good with: – Trousers for work – Jeans for weekend – Skirts to soften the look

10) The Not-Too-Precious Bag

Totême does structured totes and minimal shoulder bags. You want something that fits your life and keeps its shape. Aim for: – Medium size – Smooth or pebbled leather – No shout