It may take several years (and dozens of closet cleanouts), but eventually, everyone arrives at the same conclusion: the life cycle of your clothing matters. Buying pieces that will ultimately land in the “donate” pile a year later can get exhausting—not to mention the environmental cost.
The question is: How do you build a wardrobe with endurance? One that survives and thrives without chasing down trends and overhauling your closet every season? The answer: basics. A smart, staples-centric wardrobe will play the long game, continuing to bring value to your every appearance—not just now, but ten years from now.
Tank Top
Not only are quality camis great for layering, but you can also wear them as standalone pieces. Pair the former with a pair of Agolde criss-cross jeans, and the latter with a pleated skirt and striped button-down. Or you can pair it with official trousers and a blazer to look more admirable.
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Basic T-Shirts
T-shirts operate in almost the same capacity as a tank top, but they offer a slightly more casual take. I think it’s important to look at colors outside of white or black. It’s easy with T-shirts to fall into the white, black, or even nude categories—so I think getting some navy in there is important for variety, or whatever people find is their go-to color—whatever is flattering for them.”
Bodysuits & Blouses
Bodysuits are definitely hero pieces. They keep everything looking really streamlined and tucked-in, unlike a regular T-shirt, which can bunch or roll when you sit.
When it comes to button-downs, everyone has different styles that they gravitate towards. Some people like front pockets—some don’t. I personally don’t love pockets, unless it’s just a white button-down or an oversized top. No matter what, white, black, and nude are colors that everybody needs in their wardrobe, while it doesn’t hurt to bring in a pop of color. Stripes can be fun as well.”
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Skinny & Straight-leg Jeans
“Straight-leg jeans have really taken over. People are even saying they’re the new skinny jeans. You can’t really replace one with the other, though—the fit is completely different, so you definitely want to get a few of both,” says Bernard. “Plus, straight-leg and skinny jeans are the most versatile and easiest to wear—especially when it comes to shoes. Transitioning from sandals to boots in wide-leg styles can be somewhat tricky.” As you’re shopping, you’ll want to consider the risk you’re comfortable with—but most tend to feel their best in high-rise styles.
Cigarette Trousers & Leather Pants
Leather pants are essential—you’ll want to secure a pair that’s durable and has some stretch, which only certain brands have been able to pull off. I also think it’s important to go with a skinny fit for leather because you want the pant to have a seamless straight line. For other materials, though, it’s nice to have a variation between the cigarette cut and the skinny cut. You can pair it with a cami or a chunky sweater for a totally unique look each time.
Shorts & Skirts
Slip skirts are so reliable—they’re like the gifts that keep on giving. You can wear them to the office, you can wear them out—and I think that’s the best kind of clothing to have. The same goes for shorts—they’ll always get tons of use in the summer. It’s nice to make those fun purchases that you only wear every now and then, but honestly—how much do they serve your closet? You want to spend your clothing budget on things that you’re going keep rewearing.” Net net: skip on the trendy micro-bag, invest in these below-the-waist staples instead—and pair them with a blazer, T-shirt, and loafers for an easy transitional look.
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Sweaters
Thinner sweaters always look so flattering on everyone. They work for multiple seasons—you can still wear them in the spring and summer. They can be on the expensive side, but they’re such great quality that you’re guaranteed to hang onto them for a really long time. They can be worn underneath a black shift dress with combat boots during fall months, and throw a heavy wool coat over them for winter.
Cardigans & Sweatshirts
There’s a big misconception that anything in a cropped cut means that you’re going outside naked, but that’s just not the case. You can still look conservative while wearing a cropped cardigan. Whether you’re wearing one with pants, shorts, or a skirt, it hits in such a flattering place. However, if you’re going for a loungey look, a longer cardigan will accomplish that—as will a crewneck sweatshirt or a hoodie.” Style these with a pleated skirt to elevate the casual pullover.
Jackets & Blazers
Jackets and blazers are just essential—you need at least one of each. What’s great about having a blazer, a denim jacket, and a leather jacket is that they can really work for all four seasons. You can wear them with so many different things—shorts, skirts, pants—and you can layer so much underneath them throughout colder months. Style the blazer with a pair of baggy trousers and chunky sneakers for a relaxed take on the suiting trend.
Coats
A trench is a must-have. We love styles that feature belts—because generally, we just love things that have shape. At the end of the day, no matter what your body type is, it’s more flattering to show it off than to cut a boxy figure. It’s fun to have a more oversized version too It gives you more options when you have a range of different outerwear styles in your closet.” Pair each of these with tall boots for a fall and winter look that will withstand the test of time.
