8 Closet Classics for Women
For most of my clients, my styling services begin with a Closet Edit appointment. This appointment is not only a great introduction to the client, but also allows me to assess their current wardrobe. While a big part of the Closet Edit is to help the client purge what is no longer suiting them, the ultimate goal is to identify the gaps, aka, what key pieces they are missing.
So, what ARE the must-have pieces in a closet? I have some tried and true items that I always look for and if I don’t see them, I will try my best to incorporate them in the buildout of a new wardrobe.
In a world where we are bombarded with fast-fashion and “latest trends”, it’s important to keep those timeless staples that will never go out of style. And while some of these will get an update throughout the years, they can never fully go out of style because they are what? FUNDAMENTAL (RuPaul Drag Race reference for those fans out there).
*Because this can get quite lengthy, I will address women’s-wear in this Blog Post and mens-wear in another.
BLACK PUMPS
This shouldn’t surprise anyone….but every woman needs a beautiful, comfortable, pair of Black pumps in her closet. This might sound predictable and dare I say…basic, but I promise, you will never regret having a Black pump in your closet. Not only will these come in handy for a special event, they are also perfect for a business meeting, conference or cocktail party. The perfect Black pump is between 1.5 and 3 inches tall, has a pointed toe and is made of suede or patent leather. Check out my top picks here.
BLAZER
A great blazer is a wonderful closet staple that I didn’t realize I needed until my 30s. There is something about a blazer that flatters the body and makes you look elevated. That’s why you can throw a blazer over a t-shirt and jeans and have an instantly cute outfit! There are so many cuts, colors and styles of blazer and I don’t think that one size fits all! For example, if you NEVER have to dress in business professional attire for work, you don’t need a structured Black blazer. Instead, go for a blazer that is soft, with no taper at the waist and a ¾ sleeve.
This silhouette automatically looks more casual so you won’t feel overdressed when wearing it. If you feel that a bright colored blazer will go out of style, opt for a plaid or houndstooth. These prints can transition to be more fun or formal depending on how you style them! Some of my favorite blazer brands are Veronica Beard, Zara and L’agence. Check out my recommendations.
LEATHER JACKET
What can I say about a leather jacket? In my opinion, this is THE quintessential jacket. Nothing looks more flattering, more youthful and more cool than this garment. It can dress up an athleisure look or dress down an overly formal cocktail dress. It can make an uptight work outfit look more cool and give structure to an outfit made of flowy fabrics. If “edgy” isn’t your style, don’t worry, you don’t have to go with a “moto” type jacket. There are plenty of silhouettes and fits that will satisfy.
You can also opt for a different color from Black like Brown, Blush or even White! The jacket doesn’t even have to be genuine leather - there are great, vegan leather options out there. There is only one rule when it comes to a leather jacket: it MUST fit perfectly!
My favorite place to source a leather jacket is AllSaints and while they are pricey, they will last you years. Check out my favorites here.
WHITE SNEAKERS
I’ll keep this one short and sweet - everyone should have a crisp White sneaker in their closet! Not only can they be comfortable and practical, they look great with most outfits. Perfect with a jean, wide-leg trouser or even a skirt, White sneakers are a fundamental item in any woman’s closet because they are so versatile. I will caution - a lot of my clients have sneakers….but not all sneakers have the ability to transform an outfit like a White sneaker does. Overly worn, overly glitzy or overly athletic shoes aren’t multi-functional. For simple, clean sneakers, check out Saludos, Veja or Superga.
BLACK CIGARETTE PANT
Whenever a client is looking to transform their work-wardrobe, I look for 1 thing - a Black cigarette pant. These pants never go out of style and have been a quintessential part of a woman’s wardrobe since Audrey Hepurn in Funny Face. By definition, they have high waists with wide waistbands, a back zipper (or no zipper), flat fronts and taper towards the ankle. They are very flattering for any body type and look clean and sleek with a tucked in blouse or sweater. I recommend these because they are work appropriate for any job and always elevate an outfit. They are comfortable and easy to pair with a multitude of items. Spanx, Vince, Theory and Aritzia all make a great pair!
WHITE OXFORD
Like a Black cigarette pant, a White button-up will work wonders in your wardrobe. I use the term Oxford because that is one popular fabric for these shirts, however, these shirts can also be made from poplin, linen, cotton or even silk.
Great for under your blazers or over your jeans, the perfect version of this staple can be difficult to find. The fit over the bust can be particularly challenging and so it often takes trial and error to find the best blouse for you!
These shirts are understated, easy to style and sexy! You will never go wrong with a White button-up, jeans and a flat…the look is timeless. I have had success with Untuckit (yes, they make women’s shirts), Uniqlo, Frank & Eileen and Rails.
DARK JEANS
In a world of light-washed, oversized, mom jeans…I recommend my clients keep a dark, well-fitting, tailored jean. Trends come and go but looking polished will always be in style. Light-washed jeans are fun and definitely have a place in your wardrobe….but they are rarely ideal for a professional or work engagement. A dark denim is more elevated by nature and will always be suitable for a business casual occasion with a nice blouse, a blazer, pumps and/or sweater.
If “skinny” jeans aren’t your thing anymore, that’s okay! There are so many options out there like a flare, cropped straight, and even a flare crop. The most important thing is that they fit you perfectly and are tailored at the right leg-length.
WINTER BONUS - OVERCOAT
This seasonal staple is loose in terms of rules - you can go any color or silhouette. What is important here is that this coat is long (thigh or below), preferably made of wool and looks suitable over a dress. While you may not wear this often (especially in California) it’s a one-time investment that you can have for years. It will suit you for any number of winter events including holidays. My pet-peeve is putting a casual puffer-jacket over a beautiful cocktail dress..totally ruins the vibe. So invest in the perfect coat just once and it will pay dividends.
Honorable Mentions
This list definitely doesn’t encapsulate ALL of my wardrobe recommendations. If it did, I would also include a White tee, flats, pullover sweater, etc. That said, the 8 items I focused on are CLASSICS that you won’t have to change out every year, let alone, season. This short list should help guide you when wondering what pieces to invest in. Because these items will last you years and won’t go out of style anytime soon, these are great contenders for a designer splurge.