Every fashion person knows that closet staples are the foundation on which a forever wardrobe is created. The feeling of having a solid set of no-fail pieces that will always work is unmatched. As a fashion editor, I’m constantly surrounded by the most well-dressed people, and many of them rely on the same handful of staples as the jumping-off point to craft chic outfits all year round.
Since I believe deeply in sharing the love, I’ve decided to highlight the five must-have closet staples that have this fashion person’s seal of approval. Ahead, read exactly what these pieces are and where to shop them. Whether you’re building a wardrobe from scratch or looking to do a little refresh, the shopping selections above are sure to help out in your style endeavors.
In an effort to streamline my closet and shopping habits, I often like to take a moment to focus on my forever wardrobe. In my case (and many others), this capsule collection is often composed of elevated basics that will always look stylish and are guaranteed to get a lot of wear throughout the years. With that in mind, it’s no wonder that I often lean heavily into classic pieces when creating the backbone of my closet.
During my wardrobe reset, I further edited my favorites into a cohesive collection of essentials I know I can and will rely on for many years to come. They all make for easy dressing and can be mixed and matched with trendy pieces that will come and go along the way. Think white button-downs, tailored blazers, and more. Keep scrolling to check out six pieces I’d pick for my forever wardrobe with a little visual outfit inspiration on how to wear each.
I’ve never once lived in a warm place, having grown up in Chicago before moving to New York after college, yet winter still stumps me fashion-wise every single year, especially those years when Mother Nature is extra testy. (This is one of those years.) But there are people who just get it—people whose style thrives in cold temperatures thanks to strategic layering and even more strategic shopping.
Lucky for me, a lot of those elite cold-weather dressers work in the desks adjacent to mine, which is exactly why I called on them after the brutal temperature drop in NYC recently to share those items that they’ve come back to time and again this season to keep them warm while simultaneously allowing them to maintain the integrity of their personal style. It’s a fine line, but I swear that no one does it better than my co-workers here at WWW.
Scroll through their winter hero items, from Uniqlo Heattech (duh) to the perfect cashmere sweater.
Given that the spring collections debuted nearly six months ago, it shouldn’t be a huge surprise that I’ve had my wardrobe for the long-awaited return to warmth planned out for quite some time now. It takes time to perfect. Since fashion is famous for working way ahead, I’ve had plenty of time to ruminate on and save up for all the covetable items I’ve spotted in the lead-up to spring’s return.
Taking inspiration from the runways—think satin heels à la Prada and Altuzarra—vintage mood boards heavily featuring the likes of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, Gisele Bündchen, Carla Bruni, and stylists who got their hands on the spring collections first, I’ve managed to build a perfect “no item missed” list for the season ahead. This way, if your spring fashion interests line up in any way with mine, you can simply and efficiently check off each item as you make it yours right along with me. I suggest starting with the first one. (Bonus: It’s already on sale!)
I’ve always had a great poker face, probably because I could never quite wrap my head around actual poker and needed to come up with a way to fake it. That said, I only really have to play during holiday parties, so my ability to hide my hand has had to become useful in other ways, one of which is masking my excitement over all things fashion related. You see, I can’t just be freaking out every time I find something really, really good while shopping online. My seatmates at the office would have to move or buy some high-quality soundproof headphones. No matter how calm I might look, trust that I’m probably losing it over a luxury bag, vintage shoes, or a designer-looking sweater inside.
Such was the case this week when I went on a scroll in search of timeless, anti-trend fashion finds to share with all of you. This year has brought with it a fair share of trends, many of which I’m smitten with, but any styling expert knows that a well-rounded wardrobe must include both trendy items and classic ones. The 36 pieces below fit into the latter category, and they’re all more than worth screaming over. I won’t do that, though. Instead, I’ll switch on my aforementioned poker face and tell you all calmly to scroll down and see for yourself just how chic each one is.
The word “gatekeep” in the context of fashion exists for a reason. In an environment where an item that feels unique and different from every other ubiquitous viral sensation can easily meet that same fate following one successful TikTok video, we can’t exactly blame fashion people for keeping some of their secret go-to brands under lock and key. After all, we’ve seen how hard the social media platform has made getting reservations at new, hot restaurants. It’s no different with clothes.
Thus far, the fashion crowd’s been fairly successful at keeping their mouths shut about and their closets full of Raey, the in-house label that London-based luxury e-tailer Matches launched in 2015. Known for its baby-soft knits, cool oversize denim, and perfectly tailored outerwear, the brand’s become a beloved staple for elevated basics, much like The Frankie Shop, Loulou Studio, and Toteme. Unlike those much-discussed labels, Raey flies under the radar for the most part, but I’m bursting its bubble. After trying on 10 pieces by the brand, I can’t seem to keep my mouth shut about how good it is.
Scroll down to read all about the pieces I reviewed IRL and shop them, of course.
Just when I thought my wish list couldn’t get any longer, I found myself browsing through Nordstrom. I tell myself there’s no harm in looking through its newest and latest. Cut to an hour later and I’ve got a full cart. New year, new wardrobe! While there’s no shortage of chic new items on its site, if it’s a discount you are looking for, there’s a treasure trove of items on sale that anyone would be lucky to snatch up before the season is over.
While temps are frigid, I’ve chosen to lean toward garments that’ll give your existing winter wardrobe a makeover. Below, I’ve curated a list of newly stocked blouses, cozy knits, elevated footwear, and elegant bags. I, for one, am all for splurging on some new sweaters that’ll help me battle the Northeast chill. I’ve also selected a few transitional pieces, including lighter denim and cotton garments, that could be worn into the spring as well. If you’re looking to start the new year with some fashionable new pieces, look no further than the 28 next-level finds below.
Running your hands over a cashmere sweater is one of life’s little luxuries. The fiber is sourced from pashmina or cashmere goats and is known for its softness. It can also be mixed with wool to provide extra warmth during the freezing winter months. Basically, any article of clothing is available in the material (pants, socks, scarves, you name it!), but a cashmere sweater is one of the classics you need. It makes layering so much easier in colder temperatures, and there are tons of options you can choose from between turtlenecks, cardigans, polos, and oversize silhouettes.
Though they are a little trickier to care for (you can’t just throw one in the wash and call it a day), the wear you’ll get out of them and the styling versatility they provide make cashmere sweaters well worth their sometimes-hefty price tags. When I’m looking to stock up, I gravitate toward Nordstrom, Shopbop, and J.Crew. Once you scroll through the below list, you’ll understand why. Ahead, I rounded up 33 of the best cashmere sweaters to shop at each retailer so you can feel absolutely luxurious while going about your day this winter.
As a single child, I know my mother more than anyone else on the planet and vice versa. Years of shopping for each other and shopping together made us seasoned professionals in each other’s sense of style. And while it’s safe to say we each have very different tastes, as proven by the years of changing-room bickering sessions, there are moments when our opinions on fashion converge. After all, I am my mother’s daughter.
It’s deeply important to understand that style isn’t rooted in youth. Yes, the fashion industry loves to put young 20-somethings on billboards, runways, and advertisements, but fashion is an art form that’s passed down from generation to generation. Before influencers, celebrities, and designers, there was Mom’s closet. She may not have appreciated my ripped jeans in high school, and I may have classified her boho blouses as cheugy, but as adults, we both agree that nothing beats a classic, budget-friendly, and quality-driven wardrobe. Well-made knits, quality footwear, elevated basics, and fitted pants are top of mind for me and my mom. But being the girly girls we are, we do enjoy a fun scarf or some sparkly earrings now and then. Below are 30 items under $150 that we both adore.
We don’t mind a lovely olive green.
A sleek black turtleneck is a need.
How posh is this merino wool half-zip?
Endless outfit potential with a glossy satin top.
Buttery soft leggings for an unbeatable price.
Goes perfectly with some elevated basics and wedge boots.
For going to work in style.
Pure silk for under $100 is a crazy-good deal.
These flare pants are effortlessly stylish.
Stay cozy with this relaxed-fit poncho.
You can never own enough scarves during winter.
Everlane won with this gorgeous down vest.
The asymmetric neckline is just *mwah*!
If you’re not a fan of bulky coats, try this lovely, lightweight fleece jacket.
Hope you have the sweetest dreams in this breathable cotton pajama set.
This shoe marries style with comfort. This polished shoe has orthopedic technology made to make your walks both fashionable and comfortable.
Stay dry with the utmost style.
The smartest suede gloves.
Weather a storm with these!
Ideal for layering.
The perfect dark-wash jeans.
I’m mesmerized by the purplish-blue color of this sweater.
In case my ensemble needs a little sparkle.
Love an A-line silhouette.
This pair def has a “cool college girl” vibe to it.
Behold, the trusty and comfy button-down.
I adore puff sleeves, as they add texture and drama to a look.
All fashion lovers, regardless of age, appreciate an adorable pair of ballet flats.
French style is, at its core, super simple, but it’s also very particular. Think of what the quintessential French muse might have in her weekly rotation, though, and a few mainstays are guaranteed—the best jeans one can get their hands on, an assortment of essential tees to pair with jeans and relaxed trousers, put-together cardigans and sweaters, blazers and tailored coats for layering, and comfortable shoes made for walking. Basically, it’s everything you’re bound to find on a trip to J.Crew’s website.
Everyone’s favorite anti-trend trend—the pieces that emulate Parisian style most—are seasonless staples you can almost bet will never go out of style. I’d say that just about sums up almost every J.Crew purchase I’ve made. Currently, the brand’s online offering has everything from embellished sweaters and cropped cardigans to tweed dresses and enough striped tops to lose count, which is all very French, if I must say. I rounded up my favorites below, just in case you were looking to restock your wardrobe with a few tried-and-true styles.
With the New Year upon us, I’m doing a bit of wardrobe reflection. There’s no time like the present to take stock of what my wardrobe is lacking and start shopping for those pieces that’ll upgrade my closet in many ways. In general, an expensive-looking wardrobe is my goal—one that feels of the moment but won’t look dated in a few years. I’m prioritizing purchases that I can wear beyond 2024 and that will make my outfits look more luxe every single time.
The caveat is that I certainly don’t want to do harm to my bank account, so I’m prioritizing items that don’t cost a ton. And if they are more of an investment, I really want to get my money’s worth (as in, wear them over and over for years). If you too are in the market for a wardrobe refresh for 2024, join me and shop these seven outfit-transforming items.
Shopbop is the go-to internet destination for some much-needed shopping therapy. As a fashion enthusiast, I frequent the site in search of unique items that I seldom find in department stores, such as a Ba&sh blouse or a beautiful pair of Oliver Peoples specs, which are a useful find for eyeglasses users like myself. Shopbop also offers a range of price points, making it a perfect site to peruse for budgeters and splurgers alike.
As we get closer to winter, it may be a good idea to stock up on quality sweaters, shoes, and wool pants. Heading into a new year, you may want to change up your wardrobe and make it conducive to the latest styles and trends. Perhaps you fancy a new pair of wide-leg jeans or a quality double-breasted coat. Maybe you’re on the lookout for some newer accessories, cashmere gloves, or a new evening bag.
With an extensive internet marketplace come many options—far too many options if you’re as indecisive as me—which is why I’m here to narrow them down to the most popular and fashionable ones. Below, find a specially curated shopping guide for in-vogue Shopbop pieces.
Regardless of who you are or what tax bracket you’re in, you can look rich. Seriously, it has nothing to do with actually having a lot of money; all it takes is embodying a certain unbothered attitude and exuding an aura of wealth and abundance.
While I’m not an expert on becoming rich, I can offer inspiration on how to dress like you are. To look rich and unbothered, all you need is an expensive-looking outfit, and to get the vibe right, you just have to nail a few key styling elements. Picture coordinating creams, cozy cashmere, and chunky jewelry—all signs of understated opulence. To better explain what I’m getting at, I curated this guide of expensive-looking outfits that emanate rich and unbothered energy. Ahead, you’ll find some affordable shopping options so you can capture the elusive wealthy style without compromising your wallet.
By this point in the end-of-year sale season, the big-ticket, trendy items have all but sold out, purchased by people who were okay with shopping during the first round of price cuts. I, on the other hand, usually make it a rule to skip the initial few weeks of sales, preferring to instead, wait until the real discounts start, when only the anti-trend, wardrobe essentials are left and they’re selling at a price that’s truly worth writing home about.
After what’s felt like forever spent watching other people shop, I got the news I’ve been waiting all season for. As of this week, Shopbop’s up-to-70%-off holiday sale is on, which means that I can finally get in on the action. And of course, so can you. If you’re just as inclined to shop for heavily discounted closet staples for 2024, scroll down for 30 that are guaranteed to get worn and worn again in the year ahead.
When it comes to sale shopping, I like to start with the basics. It’s a sure-fire way I know I can probably justify a little splurge of impulse shopping—because really, when have I ever regretted reinvesting in the classic staples I wear on repeat? The meat and potatoes of my wardrobe, if you will?
In not-so-surprising news: We’re expert Shopbop shoppers. Yes, the retailer has amazing designer finds and showstopping designs, but it’s the basics and minimal pieces that I tend to gravitate toward the most. These pieces are the foundation of any good wardrobe, not to mention some of the most versatile styles you can turn to time and time again. Plus, the retailer’s Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale means it’s a great time to stock up on must-haves. (PSA: You can take 25% off select items with the code HOLIDAY. You’re welcome.) I browsed through hundreds of pages of the site’s best basics and top-selling items to bring you the go-to items you should absolutely add to your cart.
From popular denim brands like Levi’s and Agolde, to trusted T-shirts and tanks you can wear on the daily, I guarantee you’ll find something your wardrobe is missing. And don’t worry, I didn’t forget about accessories either! Trust me: These 31 items are the real deal. But don’t just take my word for it—scroll through the below list to discover the best Shopbop basics, and you might just find yourself so inclined to place an order.
Black Friday, for me, isn’t about securing one really extra fashion item, but rather, it’s a time to completely restock my most worn pieces, from T-shirts and jeans to outerwear, so that when the new year begins, my closet is flush with non stretched out and faded everyday wears. It’s been my thing for years now, and 2023 isn’t going to the one when I switch things up. But this year, rather than going through a ton of different sales to find the best red-marked basics, I’m sticking with just one, Gap’s nearly site-wide 40%-off sale. And as an added bonus, when you use the code ADDON at checkout, you’ll receive an extra 20%-off boost (with only denim excluded).
Below, find all of the discounted Gap buys worth stocking your closet with not just for winter and spring, but next summer and fall too. Or at least, the ones I’m adding to mine to get me through the entirety of 2024, including an unreal leather flight jacket that should be sold out, a ’90s-inspired cashmere skirt set, and a boatneck tee that feels extremely Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Happy shopping.
If getting dressed every morning is the biggest stress point of your day, you’re probably just lacking a few core wardrobe pieces, items that you can grab for time and time again and style in dozens of different ways. Take, for instance, a white button-down shirt. The sleeves can be worn rolled or long, it can be tucked or untucked, layered or worn totally solo. A sweater can go around its shoulders or on top of it, and any bottoms really work as a partner, from jeans to trousers. By adding just one to your closet, you open yourself up to a wealth of outfit possibilities.
Proof of this lies in the varying ways Jennifer Lawrence and Laura Harrier were seen wearing the classic shirt style, one in New York City and the other in Los Angeles. Lawrence wore a folded-sleeve option by The Row unbuttoned halfway down and tucked into belted black trousers from the same brand for a night out with a friend. Across the country, Harrier took a more casual approach, styling her oversize button down untucked with blue jeans, ballet flats, and a navy knit that, at one point, was draped over her shoulders. She also added her go-to Saint Laurent Le 5 À 7 shoulder bag and tiny sunglasses for her Los Feliz lunch date with her fiancé Sam Jarou and their dog. See what I mean about endless opportunities?
Scroll down to see how they wore the timeless wardrobe staple and shop the $58 Nordstrom version from Topshop that I’m snatching up to recreate both of their looks this fall.
With it being fashion month and all, I’ll be the first person to admit that I haven’t been on my scrolling A game. My normal hours of daily online shopping—for you, not me—have lately been used for looking through spring/summer 2024 collections and studying every inch of them to determine next year’s trends. But I’m back now, and after six long hours of toggling between new shoes, coats, denim, dresses, accessories, and more on Nordstrom.com, my return to form has the perfect thing to show for it: an exhaustive and tremendously tempting shopping list for the season ahead.
From the Sofia Richie Grainge–approved shoulder bag that’s selling out as we speak to the restocked Uggs that you’ll be forced to pay double for on eBay or Poshmark if you don’t act fast, the 39 pieces below cover all price points, occasions, and weather conditions. What they do have in common? They’re all absolutely necessary for a season of chic dressing. Without further ado, scroll down to shop the end-all, be-all fall Nordstrom shopping list I spent an entire workday curating.
If there was one piece of clothing that I overcompensated on last fall, it was pants. So this season, I decided to give myself a “pants ban,” opting to focus on knitwear and accessories instead. I’m a firm believer that these are the items that can make or break a fall outfit, so I want to invest in expensive-looking pieces that I’ll be able to wear for many years. For this reason alone, I made my way over to QVC. The retailer has really surprised me with an array of fall finds, especially in the site’s pre-owned section. (I’m still salty about missing out on an original ’90s Dior saddle bag.) The site’s carefully curated knitwear basics are the front-runners in my cart, making the hard task of refreshing my seasonal closet that much easier. Keep scrolling to take a look at the pieces that I’m taking to checkout.
