We all know the feeling of standing in front of your wardrobe thinking that you have nothing to wear. While it may seem like an inevitable wardrobe dilemma, one way to avoid that sinking feeling is by building a solid fashion foundation with basics. Whether it’s a last-minute dinner or a weekend event, there are a few essential items that will help you pull together outfits when you’re in a bind.
If you’re looking to refresh your closet, a capsule wardrobe is a great foundation for all your outfits. This limited selection of a few essential pieces that are timeless and complement each other, allowing you to create a variety of outfits. Sounds great, right? But, how exactly do you get started? Here are some ideas for choosing versatile year-round staple pieces that belong in every kind of wardrobe.
Classic staples that belong in your wardrobe
Buying the essentials that last is all down to their quality. While we all love a bargain, cheaper items likely won’t be as comfortable or long-lasting as higher-quality pieces which means you’ll need to replace them quicker!
Get more life out of your items by investing in quality pieces that you can wear time and time again, regardless of how old the item is, or the new fashion trends. Quality fabrics will hold up over time and are more likely to be made from natural materials, which means they’ll keep their shape over time.
What essentials do I need?
Look for pieces that you know you’re going to love wearing. Do you feel good about them? Do they reflect your style? And importantly, can you wear them across a range of outfits? Here are some of our top picks for essentials you need in your closet.
White t-shirt
A white t-shirt is a wardrobe staple that you won’t ever regret owning. Dress it up with skinny jeans, heels and a blazer or dress it down with a flowy maxi skirt, perfect for warm weather. You can tuck, tie and put a white tee under almost anything. The perfect white tee can be worn many different ways.
Button-down shirt
A button-down shirt makes for easy layering. Wear them over shorts and a t-shirt for cooler summer days. Opt for a linen fabric to keep you cool during warmer temperatures. When it comes to winter, transform them with a vest or knit in winter for a structured look.
Little Black Dress
No wardrobe is complete without a LBD, right? Choose one that can be worn from day to night, using accessories to transform it from casual to glam. Take your pick from different cuts and straps to add a little variety to a classic.
Jeans – however you like them
The right pair of jeans are somewhat of a fashion superpower. Whether you prefer skinny, boyfriend or bootcut, a quality pair of jeans that fit are a great investment. Take your pick from different washes and heights to suit every kind of style.
Dark pants for winter, light for summer
Invest in a couple of pairs of quality pants in a comfy style that flatters your figure. Opt for soft fabrics that will keep you cool in summer. Or, choose a darker pair that are perfect for comfort and style in winter. The perfect pair of pants can work for the office, weekend brunches and catching a show.
A midi skirt
Everyone’s summer favourite, a midi skirt can be worn many ways and is a great way to add a print or colour to your wardrobe. Wear it with a t-shirt or tank or with a knotted button-down for casual styling. For a go-to winter outfit, throw on a knitted jumper and a pair of boots for effortless cosy styling.
Knit jumper
A comfy knit will be your best friend in cooler months! Start with a neutral colour that you can dress up or down and if you find a style you love, consider investing in one with a pop of colour to brighten your wardrobe.
A fitted blazer
Whether you opt for black or a colour that coordinates with the rest of your wardrobe, a fitted blazer will dress up any outfit and never go out of style. Pull it on over a dress for summer evenings, or layer with a knit and scarf during winter. However you style it, this piece can be layered up or down to take you from warm to cold.
A neutral trench coat
A trench in a neutral colour like tan or camel is essential to your wardrobe. Wear it over jeans and a t-shirt in autumn and on cooler spring days, then layer it with a knit-in winter for effortless style year-round. Choose something classic and consider this an investment piece – spend a little more and you’ll wear this for years to come.
Think about your footwear
Stock your shoe wardrobe with five essentials: flats, heels, sandals, sneakers and boots and you’ll have options no matter the weather or occasion. Choose ankle boots for a more versatile option for all seasons – they’re easier to pack on holiday too.
Don’t forget the pool
Investing in a quality pair of bathers will have you ready for the beach or pool. Enjoy colours and patterns or keep it sleek in a neutral set. Find your perfect style that you’ll love to wear time and time again with a one-piece or bikini. Don’t forget about pool-side accessories like a sarong or kaftan so that you’ll always be ready for the beach or pool.
Accessories are your secret weapon
Accessories are a great way to express your style and revamp your outfit. Create a collection of go-to scarves, jewellery or bags, ready to help you when you need to add a little extra to an outfit.
Go forth and shop!
Now it’s time for the fun part! Hit the racks and find your next favourite outfit! Write a list of the essentials your wardrobe lacks and remember that it might be worth spending a little more to get a higher-quality piece that will last you for years to come. These wardrobe staples are all timeless and will never go out of fashion, so you can shop with confidence knowing you’ll be simplifying your life and won’t need to stress about clothing indecision ever again.