Summer of Style: Tryano and the art of capsule wardrobes

In an exclusive collaboration between Cosmo ME and Abu Dhabi Retail, a phenomenal 12-week series of events is taking place across Abu Dhabi’s finest malls as part of Abu Dhabi Summer Shopping Season – Summer of Style. Tryano’s insightful styling session at Yas Mall was undeniably a highlight of our summer.

Capsule wardrobes and quiet luxury are evidently the biggest fashion trends of 2023, a year in which Sophia Richie Grainge was crowned it-girl and sustainability shifted to the forefront of the fashion process. Tryano’s latest collection, showcasing elements of luxurious minimalism and functionality, is proof that the leading fashion destination is extremely ~à la mode~ this season.

Via @sofiarichiegrainge on Instagram

Indeed, Tryano has upped its contemporary offering throughout the years. Diversifying its clothing beyond dressy attire, the fashion giant has adopted a day-to-day approach to style, curating versatile pieces that fall under the umbrella of uniform dressing.

Power-dressed in stylish yet functional pieces from head-to-toe, our leading ladies of the event illustrated Tryano’s shift in perspective. Cosmo ME’s very own Content Producer Twinkle Stanly rocked a dark-academia inspired dress from Staud, while our guest of honour Zakia donned a stunning neutral-toned abaya from Taller Marmo.

HAZEL DRESS BLACK, Dhs1,700

The tones were muted and pastel, Zakia’s favourite. The fashion influencer shared that her Taller Marmo gown was very versatile, suitable for both special occasions and work. Little did we know that Zakia was slowly easing us into the rich world of capsule wardrobes.

FRINGED MRS ROSS KAFTAN DRESS, Dhs4,630

Our leading ladies then gave the floor to our distinguished fashion editor, Imogene Legrand, who offered our Cosmo invitees an insightful masterclass on the art of creating a capsule wardrobe. Highlighting its intersection with quiet luxury and the “elevated uniform,” Imogene demonstrated the timelessness, magic, and functionality of a capsule wardrobe.

Cosmo ME’s elevated uniform styling session with Imogene Legrand…

The elevated uniform, explains Imogen, draws inspiration from formal menswear. Think: neutral-toned blazers, a structured black dress, a tailored white blouse. The modern woman is multifaceted – so the timelessly chic elevated uniform pieces are multipurpose. Provided that we style them correctly (which we don’t need to worry about in the company of Imogene), the same elevated uniform pieces of a capsule wardrobe can be worn to the office, to dinner, or to a night out.

Capsule wardrobes and elevated uniform go hand in hand, sharing the same essential elements. The term “capsule wardrobe,” coined in 1970, refers to a minimalistic set of clothing pieces that can be paired with one another maximally, resulting in an all-encompassing wardrobe that sustains itself season after season. Coinciding with the idea of recycling your wardrobe (which Zakia loves), capsule wardrobes originated in the interest of sustainability. They’re composed of timelessly chic pieces that are suitable for every occasion, lasting throughout the seasons.

The capsule wardrobe additionally coincides with quiet luxury, both of which are characterized by muted tones, minimal logos, and classic cuts. The emphasis is placed on simplicity and finesse in composition as opposed to ~logo mania~ or ostentatious fads such as rhinestones. Characterized by clean proportions and gentle silhouettes, quiet luxury is versatile; it’s timeless, and it’s here to stay. Tryano’s racks were absolutely full of quiet luxury elements, whether it be denim, tailored shirts, or classic knits.

Imogene explained that a luxurious yet simple fashion brand like Anine Bing is in perfect harmony with the elevated uniform trend. Having launched in Tryano just this August, the American/Scandinavian brand is ideal for any modern woman in search of wardrobe essentials and long-lasting investment pieces. Another notable mention showcased at Tryano is Tammy & Benjamin, because nothing elevates a capsule wardrobe like subtle yet powerful accessories.

Tryano’s capsule wardrobe essentials…

Black shorts

A classic, versatile capsule wardrobe piece that can be paired with just about anything.

ANINE BING, CARRIE SHORT, Dhs950

Imogene’s styling tips: For a relaxed yet slightly cinched look, tuck one side of blouse into the shorts, leaving half of the blouse loose. What makes these shorts flattering is that they cut at your waist, creating a figure enhancing look. This cut is particularly flattering as it elongates the legs.

White blouse

The perfect blouse to half-tuck into the black shorts.

ANINE BING, MIKA SHIRT, Dhs760

Imogene’s styling tips: You could create 3 different outfits using this same blouse depending on the way you tuck it. A half tuck maintains some structure with a laid-back feel, whereas fully tucking the blouse in creates a preppy look.

Denim jeans

This mannequin is giving elevated casual. A relaxed pair of jeans is a great alternative to the black shorts.

ANINE BING, GAVIN JEAN, Dhs870

Imogene’s styling tips: What denim is best for your body type? The most important thing is identifying where the jeans cut off at your ankles and waist. Avoid any cutting off at an awkward spot as this gives the illusion that you’re shorter than you actually are.

To dress up the outift, why not add a pop of colour? The Marc Jacobs Tote Bag is the perfect versatile accessory for that “elevated uniform” feel. Not only is it uber stylish, but it’s also super functional and will fit all of your essentials as a working woman.

MARC JACOBS, THE LEATHER MEDIUM TOTE BAG, Dhs2,718

Patterned set

A fan favourite, this ‘fit is extremely flattering. Its subtle colours make it an excellent capsule wardrobe piece.

ANINE BING, ASPEN SHIRT, Dhs760

ANINE BING, OWEN PANT, Dhs950

Imogene’s styling tips: If you’re not in the mood for a matchy-matchy look, you can pair the top or the bottom with another suitable capsule wardrobe item. What makes this set special is that you’re able to wear it not tucked in and it’ll still look slightly cinched. An excellent investment piece, this carefully tailored ‘fit effortlessly preserves your silhouette and is built to last.

It’s advisable to accessorize this look with muted tones, or else you’d risk creating an excessively noisy look. Why not pair it with a nude sandal?

Structured blazer

An important element of quiet luxury is adding some subtle contrast/structure to your look, so a black blazer is also an excellent capsule wardrobe piece.

ANINE BING, MADELEINE BLAZER, Dhs1550

Imogene’s styling tips: When looking for a blazer, pay attention to the cut and stiffness. The length should cut at a flattering spot, so it should be either a long blazer or a short one, but not an awkward length in between.