Wardrobe Staples

 Fast fashion and brand name trends have changed the way we are shopping. As consumers we are overwhelmed with daily ads and pressure to keep up with the newest looks and popular brands. This is not just unattainable for the average person, but is also highly unsustainable. Now I am by no means impervious to this way of thinking, I love a trend and I like to keep my wardrobe current. But, I do try to avoid unnecessary cost or waste by focusing on filling my closet with pieces that will last me more than one season. I focus on quality instead of quantity. If you create a base wardrobe of staple pieces then you can buy a few accessories or change the way you style yourself in order to keep current. Now I avoided using the word classic when referring to staples because sometimes classic pieces aren’t what best suit you. Instead try finding basics in forms that best suit you. For one person I pair of skinny jeans might be a staple but for another person that role might be played by a wide leg trouser. It’s all about figuring out what items you find you use the most often and can see playing a role in your life for years to come. So here is my list of staple categories that you should look to fill. First and foremost a bag, this could be a tote or a handbag whatever you use the most. It is a piece that you use everyday and there is no reason practical pieces shouldn’t be beautiful too. Shoes, every person should have at least one good pair of shoes. This could be a pair of boots or flats but they should be something that could take you through any season and various events. Personally I think finding a pair that can be resoled is important to extending the life of your shoes. Knitwear is another category I think everyone should try and fill, personally I love a good cashmere. Now if you live in a really warm place this category may be replaced by something else, but for those of us who spend 9 months of the year bundled up having at least one good quality sweater you know will keep you comfortable and warm is worth the investment. One of my favorite categories is trousers; everybody should have at least one pair of well fitting and flattering trousers in a neutral color. These should be able to work in a professional setting or as casual everyday wear and should be comfortable enough to fly in. Tailoring can be key in making this item work; I promise once you make the investment you won’t regret it. Denim, jeans have become a mainstay in most people’s wardrobes and a good pair last years. But make sure to find a pair that suits you and your style, not what others say you should like. That means trying on loads of cuts and washes. Try different brands and make sure they make you happy. On the topic of denim a good jean jacket is also something I think can add a lot of versatility to any wardrobe. Good quality outerwear is always a good investment. For many of us it’s the first or only thing people see for a good portion of the year so finding pieces that look good and will last is important. I think you can get away with purchasing fewer items if you are willing to layer. For example pairing a packable down jacket under a raincoat can serve as a winter jacket that will keep you warm and dry although it may not be the most stylish. So if you have the means I think investing in a few key pieces of outerwear can elevate your whole wardrobe. The last category I think is worth investing in is the “everything dress” now for many people this is filled by the little black dress. But this dress can be any pattern or cut you want it just needs to be able to be extremely versatile. This should be a dress that can be dressed down with sneakers and dressed up with heels. You should be able to make it work from day to night by just changing up the accessories. It should be something that fits you impeccably and makes you feel good every time you put it on. You’d be amazed how much more often you wear a piece if you know that it fits you well because it was tailored to you. And that is true for basically everything on this list. It’s not about buying the most expensive item or checking off the boxes on someone’s preset list. It’s about taking that information and adapting it for your life. So focus on finding your key pieces and filling those spaces with pieces you love and want to wear for years to come. You’ll be amazed how much easier life becomes when your closet isn’t filled with trends and instead is full of items you love and fit you well! Look out for my upcoming post for more advice on what I look for when shopping to fill these categories. Best of luck with your shopping endeavors and let me know what your staples are in the comments!