It’s been a while since I sat down to write a blog post, with all the craziness in the world right now. Moving forward, I will try to go back to posting with some normalcy here! I thought I’d begin with a post that I think many of you will appreciate because it will answer a lot of commonly asked questions that I receive on my Instagram. I have made a conscious effort over the past year or so to shop more thoughtfully in efforts to create a capsule wardrobe, which is basically a minimalist wardrobe that consists of versatile pieces that you can wear in lots of different ways all year long. After taking a lot of time to consider which items of clothing I can and can’t live without, here are my top 10 essentials!
I – Crisp White Tee
This is personally the most important essential in my closet because it can be worn year round, no matter what the weather is like. It can be hard to find high quality tees under $100 that won’t pill, shrink, or do that annoying thing when the sleeves curl under! Mott & Bow makes my favorite tees, with different styles depending on if you want something to be more fitted or oversized. They’re all under $50 and are excellent quality for the price.
II – Comfortable Flats
I couldn’t get by without my flats collection. In this case, I’m including regular flats and mules because mules are a little more warm weather appropriate. They’re an absolute must when I’m traveling because they’re comfortable and they don’t take up a lot of room in my luggage. They’re the perfect on-the-go shoe that are chic no matter what!
III – Chic Pair of Jeans
A single pair of jeans can provide you with endless outfit choices. I’m crazy about denim (as you’ve probably noticed already) but my absolute favorite pair is the Everlane Cheeky Straight Jean. I get DMs at least a few times per week about sizing. I’m 5’4″ and typically wear between 25-26 in jeans. I have the ankle version in a size 25 petite and they are the most flattering jeans that I own. I prefer cropped jeans but it’s hard for me to find them without having to cut them myself. The petite version of these jeans are the perfect length! I also love the H&M Vintage Slim jeans (second photo) and highly recommend them to anyone looking for good quality jeans on a budget.
IV – Cozy Cardigan
I’m the kind of woman that refuses to give up on my cardigans, even when it’s hot outside, because I love wearing them that much! There’s something about an oversized cardigan that instantly gives any outfit an effortless yet sophisticated vibe. My favorite brands for cardigan lately have been Mango, and & Other Stories. They have a great selection year round!
V – Classic Trench Coat
This may not be an ideal piece for everyone’s closet, but for me, a trench coat is as classic as outerwear gets. I wear mine all the time as a regular coat, not just when it’s raining. I think it’s also a great piece to include if you’re traveling abroad and you’re looking for a lightweight coat that won’t take up a lot of room in your suitcase.
VI – Versatile Heels
Every closet needs great heels – whether they’re for the office, date nights, special events, or if you simply prefer them over flats. I like to keep them simple, not too high and a neutral color that can be styled with lots of outfits. I prefer a low block heel because they’re so much more comfortable and practical. I wear this pair on a weekly basis and have really enjoyed styling these for spring and summer!
VII – Crewneck Sweater
I wear crewneck sweaters all year with jeans or shorts. They’re my weakness! I own a lot of them, but neutral crewnecks can provide you with tons of outfit choices, which is why I style them a lot in my flatlay photos.
VIII – Button Up Shirt
Button up shirts are one of the most versatile pieces in my closet. Any clothing that can be worn to the office AND on the weekend is a win. Over the years I have started to prefer an oversized look because it looks so effortlessly chic with jeans and flats! It’s also a great piece to take with you while traveling. The first photo is from when I was on vacation in Germany and I wore that button up more than once while I was there!
IX – Minimalist Sneakers
When I say “minimalist” sneakers, I mean neutral colors without a lot of designs on them. A great pair of sneakers can give your outfit a classic, tomboy kind of vibe without looking too casual. My Vejas and Converse are definitely my favorite and most worn sneakers in my closet.
X – Oversized Blazer
I saved the best for last because blazers are my favorite! I only own a handful because I get so much wear out of all of them. Blazers are another great piece to take you from the office to the weekend. Some of my favorite brands to buy blazers from if you’re willing to pay a little more ($100-$200) are Zara, & Other Stories, Lulu’s and Mango. If you’re looking for more budget friendly options, I recommend H&M to everyone because they have an amazing selection (especially during fall and winter) and the quality is impressive for the price. My H&M blazers are all $50 and below.
