On Wardrobe Essentials: Here are Five of Mine

5 Wardrobe Essentials in my Closet

“I’ve Been Shopping My Whole Life…

…and still have nothing to wear!” My dear friend shared this quote with me once and it made me smile. In a sense, it’s true. While I have an always-updating list of pieces I want to add to my wardrobe (like a trench coat to replace the one that got damaged at the cleaner), I am not lacking when I walk into my closet each day. So, why is it sometimes hard to get dressed?

For me, as my personal style has evolved (and with the help of another dear friend who also happens to be a stylist), I’ve realized that on most days (when I’m working, running errands and want to look pulled together but don’t have an event), it’s easier to dress in a sort of uniform, if you will. Here are my go-to essentials that make up this uniform.

My Wardrobe Essentials

 

High-Waisted Black Jeans

I love this pair and also have been living in these if I want to switch up the leg. I gravitate towards black jeans because they’re visually slimming and just a little bit different and more dressed up than blue.

White Tank, Preferably Racerback

I’m committed to the Spanx Bra-llelujah Racerback Bra, so I honestly pick my tanks around my undergarment. I’m into slightly burnt out tanks but my favorite favorite appears to be sold out. I typically tuck the tanks, so bodysuits are another option (that I often go for, depending on the jeans).

Long Sweater or Jacket

This piece gets slightly tricky in the summer, though I did score two linen-blend long sweaters on sale that have been game-changing. I’m looking forward to this heavier cashmere version fall. Moon + Beck recently launched a long cardi that is SO comfortable and also fits the bill (it’s making me want to take a trip just so I can wear it on the plane). I think Zara always does a nice job with their sweaters and outwear and find their spring and fall pieces always transition well. Isn’t this blush jacket a great find? I mix in short jackets too from time to time, but typically longer is more flattering.

Mules

It’s no secret that I’m shoe-obsessed and I stand by that sentiment. I wore towering heels at the office and while I still have some occasions to go all out, on the daily I now opt for heels that are a bit more manageable when I’m running around. Here is a pair that I’d just ordered (for under $35!) and this pair is a favorite for the season too. Zara has the cutest flats, but alas, I always wear a heel.

Earrings with Interest

I was careful not to use “statement earring” (and not just because my next item uses the same verbiage). I LOVE an earring that is the center of attention, but I also think wearing one that’s subtly interesting is just as sweet and works well when you’re keeping things casual. This pair is reminiscent of the ones I wear almost daily and these are the bigger earrings I reach for as of late.

Bonus: Statement Sleeve

On the days I need to dress it up ever-so-slightly, I throw on a statement sleeve. I bought this one at 3 am one morning last winter when I was up pumping for Elle and can’t count how many times I’ve worn it. I know it might seem crazy to spend that much for a shirt (and I’ll be honest, I was very hormonal and not necessarily in my right mind because of sleep deprivation), but every once in a while the right piece comes along and you just get a feeling. It’s probably the best wardrobe investment I’ve made, especially when you take a minute to add up all of the other things I might have bought to fill the wardrobe void this filled. AND it looks good (quality-wise) every time I wear it (if I do say so myself).

And That’s That! My Five (or Six!) Wardrobe Essentials

Do you have a self-imposed uniform? What are your essentials? I could talk personal style all day so hope you’ll share or DM me on Instagram, if you’d like!