Functional fashion: that long jersey dress (with the high slits) from H&M

I think it was two or three years ago that I stumbled across the concept of the “capsule wardrobe”.  It’s a simple philosophy: you commit to buying a few quality core items that can help you work a number of looks whatever the weather or season.  Tones are kept neutral to get the most out of the swappage (accessories and make-up can provide the colour pop), and in the long run, you always have something to wear. It saves money too (which you already know is crucial to living this London life right, okay somebody?)

But my challenge is the need to have clothes in the capsule that are not just multi-purpose, but multi-lifestyle. They need to be functional for the times I’m going from the bike to the boardroom and can’t afford to be a sweaty mess.  And if I’m off to a restaurant launch in the evening, I still need to be representing in the style stakes without looking like I’m about to race the Tour De France.

So big up H&M for my new favourite capsule item right now, their long jersey dress. It’s my kind of minimal (I bought it in gray), a good price (only £14.99) and I love the 3/4 sleeves. But the clincher for me is the high slits.  I wore Ms Thang with a pair of leggings and my black Nike Lunar Glide 6‘s as I cycled into work yesterday, and  let me tell you, freedom reigned.

The decent length meant the dress didn’t get caught in the chain (like my other jersey maxi dress, RIP). And it’s extremely breathable, thanks to the 50% rayon which also makes it quite comfy to wear.  The other 50% is polyester, so it’s pretty hard-wearing and should see me through many more commutes.  But more importantly, it can easily go from day to night with nothing more than a shoe swap and a belt. Win-win!