Staple Closet Pieces
My favorite time of the day is when it’s time to get dressed.
The must haves for your wardrobe. Here are 25 pieces that will make dressing yourself easier and fun. I’ve listed the specific item if I think you should get that exact piece, but for others, I’ve kept it general because there are probably decent alternatives that “serve the lewks” just as well.
Here’s the breakdown.
The Pieces
1. Microshorts
Thank you Amelia Jenks Bloomer for the bloomer shorts. I love fun micro shorts for warm weather. I got the Mousie Micro Shorts Cream Plaid, and they’re perfect to pair with big tees, little tops, and as undergarments for sheer dresses.
2. Oversized Blazer
We love a big blazer moment. I got the Lioness Wyoming Blazer and I’m not joking when I say I wear it all the time. It runs large so size down! It’s the perfect lightweight jacket, and it adds a classy, “pro-fesh” flair to any fit.
3. The Rachel Cardigan
The perfect cardigan, and I’ve already got it in grey, red, and black! The popular Kimchi Blue Rachel Cardigan from Urban Outfitters is a great staple piece made of super soft material. I specifically recommend this one because it hugs the shoulders nicely without looking box-y. It does “shed’ a bit and get some fuzz with each wash, but this is still a solid everyday piece. Pair with a cami top, plain tank top, pleated skirt, or a mini dress for a touch of prep.
4. The Contour Ravish Top
In LOVE with the Contour Ravish Top from Aritzia. It’s perfect for styling casually or for a night on the town. When I say I bought it in black and white, totaling to over $110, it’s for a damn good reason. It’s slimming and has a beautiful neckline that will get compliments left and right. I will be wearing this for the rest of my life.
5. Slack Shorts
As much as I love my slack pants, Los Angeles is hot as f*ck. Say hello to slack shorts! They’re classy, modern, and easy to style. Aritzia’s Limitless Short Mid-Thigh Crepette is a lifelong purchase and so comfy!
5. Archer Pants
And…the slack pants. I quite honestly wear my Archer Pants more than I wear jeans or sweatpants. As a proud owner of the Archer pants in white, black, grey, and brown, I highly recommend. Plus, they’re available in petite, regular, and tall sizes. So many colors to choose from!
6. Greta Ballet Flats
I wasn’t a fan of ballet flats when they started coming back. I don’t think I’d even worn them since middle school. However, I’ve hopped on the bandwagon. The Greta Ballet Flat won me over with it’s cute strap design and fun colors. I have these in a dark burgundy and they pair well with mini and maxi skirts, slacks, and jeans. The Greta Ballet Flats have a comfy bottom, but the top part can dig into the top of your foot a bit while breaking them in. But hey, beauty hurts sometimes.
7, Y2K Cami Top
I’m not sure what this style is officially called, but I’m referring to it as the Y2K cami top. Google seems to get it. Anyway, these tops are so cute and can be paired with slacks, mini skirts, and even maxi skirts! My favorite is the Evaa Top from Princess Polly.
8. Quilted Puff Jacket
Say goodbye to the puffer trend and hello to the new quilted puff jacket. Layering and staying warm just got more interesting. Some great options include the Water Repellent PufferJacket from Zara or the Made in the USA Quilted Jacket by New Balance.
9. Midi & Maxi Skirts
I literally cannot shut up about midi skirts. I pair them with basic tank tops or little tees. My all time favorites include the Slip Satin Maxi Skirt from Artizia, the Summer Rain Asymmetrical Maxi Skirt at Princess Polly. They’re a staple Spring piece.
10. Lightweight Trench Coat
I was so determined to get a trench coat that I ordered from 4 different places to get the perfect one. The Haili Trench Coat Beige from Princess Polly is the literal trench coat of my dreams. I ordered from Zara but it was too heavyweight, then I ordered from Abercrombie and the color was too caramel colored. This one is lightweight (perfect for Socal) and hugs the shoulders nicely without looking boxy.
11. Old School 550 New Balance Sneakers
These sneakers are my everyday shoe. The 550 New Balance shoes are incredibly comfy and look great with any outfit, dressed up or down. It can be hard to find these special editions because the logo is the old school NB logo. They’re the best lifestyle shoe for walking or running errands (but not actual running). The version with the old-school logo (smaller and cuter imo) are hard to find. I got mine in an actual store, but they haven’t been listed anywhere else - you can try Joe’s New Balance Outlet for authentic and verified NB kicks for half the price.
12. Carpenter Shorts
Carpenter shorts? No, not Sabrina Carpenter. Although these are short and sweet. There’s just something about baggy shorts that subtly say ”I have style.” While I do like my Lou Carpenter Denim Shorts, they’re on the shorter side with a mid-thigh length. If you want something baggier and going down to your knees, consider other options like the Low Rise Bermuda Denim Carpenter Shorts from Edikted.
13. Athletic Romper
The Sequoia Romper by Monday Swimwear is so cute that I’d wear this while working out as well as running errands! This doesn’t have padding so you might want to wear a sports bra underneath. Pair it with a cardigan or hoodie and a hat, and you’re good to go.
14. Loafers
Get the Lando Black Loafers from Steve. Madden ASAP, I didn’t realize how much I would love these preppy and sensible shoes. Brennan says it looks a little pilgrim-like but to each their own. He’s a little right though.
15. Reeves Purse
I’ve got it in red, black, and white because it’s the perfect purse to go with any outfit. The Reeves Bag from Princess Polly is roomy enough for all your little things but stays snug and secure under your arm.
16. Button Up Shirts
Button up and get down! This will double as a work shirt and a very cute, casual shirt. I’ve collected button up shirts from multiple places, including thrift stores, but one of my favorites in the vibrant Chloe Set Pink Stripe. A cute little dress shirt can be the best compliment to a mini skirt, baggy jeans, or slacks. You can even layer over this with a sweater or sweater vest.
17. Back in Time Top
I have the Back in Time Top in 5 colors for a reason. These tops are super comfy, make the girls look great, and can be dressed up and down. While it’s not a cotton tank, it’s a great basic tank to have around! Seriously it’ll shape you so well.
18. Funk Punk Sunglasses
While I’m not a huge sunglasses lover (for some reason I just never seemed to use them), the Funk Punk Sunglasses by Crap Eyewear are a game changer. They’ve got a snug and stable fit to secure onto my face and they look f*cking amazing.
19. A-Line Maxi Dress
Dramatic entrance for the dress of the summer. I love the elegant yet casual style of the Technique Poplin Dress. I’d even recommend finding this in a slightly shorter length if you’re on the shorter side. Super cute with sneakers or sandals!
21. Leather Pants
Do not - I repeat - do NOT buy leather pants anywhere but Aritzia. Leather pants are one of those pieces that are so hard to get right. You don’t want it to look stiff or plastic-y. It’s a journey to find the perfect fit and material, but once you do, it’s a closet gem for life. The Farrah Hi-Rise Wide “Jean” or Felix Pants are great options with super soft leather that look stunning and not overly-shiny. Plus, they’ll keep your bum warm in the winter!
22. Bubble Hem Mini Dress
The bubble hem was on a trending up last year, and I really love how they look on dresses more than anything! The Kimchi Blue Tube Bubble Hem Dress from Urban Outfitters and the Bonjour Bubble Hem Mini Dress from Princess Polly will shape you nicely and add a subtle “oomf” to your hips! The Kimchi Blue Tube Bubble has a looser fit on top, so if you want something that stays up better, get a style with a scrunchy material on top like the Bonjour Bubble Hem. Love these dresses for a casual brunch, picnic, or day at the beach.
23. Cowboy Boots
If you own a $400 pair of cowboy boots, good for you. I’d love to, too. They can be super expensive, but I’d definitely encourage anyone to invest in a high-quality boots. As for me, I just purchased mine from Amazon, but listen when I say these have gotten me through hell and back. I own the Soda RENO Boots in red, black, and white, and they’re one of the best shoes for festivals and everyday wear. They’re got ample cushion and are so comfortable. Find me in the desert with these every time.
24. Ribbed Cami Tank
The perfect casual cami tank top to layer with or dress down. The HomeStretch Rib Scoopneck Cami from Artizia is incredibly soft and has a nice stretch. Pairs well with mini skirts, jeans, and well everything. Also great news: it’s available in 27 colors!
25. Oversized Denim Jacket
Last but not least, who else loves a denim jacket? These are perfect for those of you (like me) who wear all black a lot and want a solid something to stand out on your outfit. The Layered Denim Jacket from Zara is a solid denim jacket to layer and love forever.
Conclusion
Hopefully you’ve started adding things to your shopping carts. Before you leave, some final thoughts and tips:
Don’t be afraid to experiment.
Play with colors.
Layer, or learn to layer.
Balance comfort and style.
Feel good in your clothes.
Spend where it’s worth spending, and save when you can.
Wear what you love! Don’t let others tell you what’s in or out.
Sincerely,
Hannah
P.S. Never ever take me shopping because I will always always enable you to treat yourself.
