I am a firm believer that in order to make the most out of your wardrobe, you need a few wardrobe staples/essentials. Similarly to a capsule wardrobe, by properly selecting a handful of wardrobe staples, you will be able to create various different outfits from one piece! I have always been a lover of fashion, and I am constantly learning more! However, I would say over the past two years or so, I have gotten very particular about what I choose to add to my wardrobe in order to elevate the pieces I already have… and I believe I have finally nailed what wardrobe staples are key to have in your closet! Before you read what is on this list, please remember that fashion is personal. It is a creative expression that you choose! My wardrobe has been crafted based on my taste, my body type, and my environment. What works for me, may not work for you!
White Blouse/Button Down
I love a white button down shirt. It is timeless, universal, and can be worn all year round. My style is very simple, therefore my go-to outfit is always a white button down, with the sleeves rolled up, tucked into a pair of high waisted straight leg jeans, and black boots. You can also wear it under a sweater and have the collar out, or underneath a blazer for a more professional look, or with a cream coloured turtleneck underneath.
What to look for:
- Plain and simple (no distracting buttons or patterns)
- Preferably cotton or linen
- A little oversized
My shirt: Club Monaco from 2 years ago
Other options:
https://www.zara.com/ca/en/oversized-poplin-shirt-p01971055.html?v1=85659234
Black trousers
I love trousers so much. I have white, brown, cream, and patterned trousers, but the ones I gravitate towards the most are my black trousers. Trousers are my version of a professional sweat suit. If you find the right pair, they are comfortable, breathable, and versatile! For a casual look, I will pair them with an oversized sweater and white sneakers. However, my favourite way to wear them is with a black oversized blouse and loafers. Never underestimate the power of a monochromatic outfit!
What to look for:
- High waisted
- Full length (you can always cuff them to shorten them which will create a different vibe to your outfit!)
- Preferably wool blend
My trousers: I got them second hand at Value Village in the men’s section
Other options:
https://www.aritzia.com/en/product/amira-pant/80745.html?dwvar_80745_color=1274
https://shop.mango.com/ca/women/trousers-wideleg/pleat-detail-trousers_87020557.html?c=99
https://shop.mango.com/ca/women/trousers-wideleg/dart-palazzo-trousers_87000558.html
Black Turtleneck
My black turtleneck was the first piece of clothing I bought that started the journey of me being more aware of what I bring into my closet. My mother got me a black cashmere turtleneck for Christmas while I was in University, and I was so pleasantly surprised at how many new outfits I could create! Believe me when I say I wear it at least 4 times a week… but no one notices! You can pair it with virtually any coloured skirt, underneath a blazer, underneath a crew neck sweater, any kind of trousers, underneath a dress, or, my favourite way, on its own with jeans! As you may have noticed, I prefer simple and understated outfits. Less is more, and you should always let the clothes do the talking.
What to look for:
- Invest in this piece so you don’t have to always repurchase it
- Cashmere, or wool
- Simplicity (tight, plain, classic)
My shirt:
https://www.thebay.com/product/lord-taylor-cashmere-turtleneck-sweater-0600090860665.html
Other options:
https://www2.hm.com/en_ca/productpage.0673677002.html
Beige/Cream Blazer
We all know everyone raves about the classic black blazer (as they should). I have two black blazers and they’re great… but do you know just how amazing a cream blazer is?! This might be a controversial opinion, but I think a cream blazer is better than a black one. Firstly, it isn’t as common and it pops more. Also (and the most important reason for me), it pairs way better with denim. I personally don’t think black is a colour that matches well with everything. Whenever I wear dark denim, I can’t wear anything black with it. Again, this is my personal opinion. However, my cream blazer matches every single pair of pants or skirts I own.
What to look for:
- Shade: Make sure the shade of cream compliments your skin tone, and doesn’t wash out out.
- Fit: Go for the oversized look, but not too oversized. If the shoulder pads drape down to your arms, it’s too big
- Details: Classic is key. Look for 2 or 3 buttons, symmetrical pockets, and a clean cut. Let the blazer do the talking!!
My Blazer: Second hand from Value Village
Other options: Second hand. There are so many blazer options at second hand stores that provide so much for the price. Nowadays, blazers start at around $100 from high street stores, and are made poorly. Be patient and find one from a thrift store. For more on second hand/ repurposing fashion, check out Rachel’s post on jewelry here!
Takeaways
Those are my wardrobe staples! I can wear any of those pieces with multiple different outfits and they will never go out of style. My takeaway points:
- Simplicity is key. Go timeless, not trendy.
- Quality over quantity. Invest and it will give you more of your money’s worth.
- Let the clothes do the talking. You’ll be surprised how a lipstick colour, jewelry, or shoes are all it takes to make an outfit pop a bit more.
- Before buying, see if you can pair that item with at least three outfits you already have in your closet. Never buy something that is only meant for one outfit. Mix and match! You’d be surprised at how much shopping you can do in your already existing closet.
Let me know if you have any questions or would like to see more fashion content from me! Happy shopping!
