It always helps me to think about essentials as the items that are so prevalent in my closet that I could get dressed in the dark and would land on at least 1 if not a full outfit. (Also the area I have the hardest time purging b/c I know I will wear each of these items)

My essentials have changed slightly this year as staying home combined with a more casual company.

Following Lisa’s question, I tried thinking in categories to see if I’m missing anything (note - I don’t use capsules, so this was a little harder for me). I’ve ** the items that crossed capsules.

My essentials for 2021:

Home:
1/4 zip sweatshirt in Navy
Sweatshirt in Cream
Wine cardigan in blue or Grey
Denim Jacket**
Grey sweatsuit (pants/jacket)
White v-neck tees
Stripe short or long-sleeve tees**
Denim shorts - light wash or white
Jeans - dark wash or white, straight, bootcut or cropped flare**
Low profile fashion tennis shoes

Casual (incl WFH zoom):
Pea coat in Navy
Puffer in cream
Denim Jacket**
V-neck solid color sweater - cotton for summer, wool or cashmere for winter**
Stripe knit tops**
Navy / cream solid knit tops with crew or turtle neck**
Cardigan in blue/navy**
Jeans - dark wash, grey or white, straight, bootcut or cropped flare**
Ballet flats - point toe, in brown or navy**
Booties - grey
Delicate gold necklaces or earrings**

Work:
White trench coat
Navy Suit - blazer, pants, dress
Grey suit - blazer, pants, dress
V-neck solid color sweater - cotton for summer, wool or cashmere for winter**
V-neck sleeveless tops for layering
Navy / cream solid knit tops with crew or turtle neck**
Cardigan in blue/navy**
Jeans - dark wash, grey or white, straight or bootcut**
Ballet flats - point toe, in brown or navy**
2.5" leather pumps - navy or grey
Delicate gold necklaces or earrings**

Finds below - not totally grouped - but I think shows the cohesion.