Coat: Ted Baker, Sweater: Everlane, Jeans: MOTHER, Sneakers: Tretorn, Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters Bag: Cuyana
March always feels like it should be spring but it’s actually mostly winter weather and mother nature likes to trick us with a few last minute snowstorms this time of year too (eye roll/sigh). Our minds are on spring dresses but 30-40 degree weather ain’t gonna cut it! Regardless I’ve personally been trying to focus on building a solid classic wardrobe that will get a lot of everyday wear all year round. I have so many dresses just hanging in my closet but I pretty much wear jeans, knits, jackets, and flats most days. I’ll transition to dresses eventually but for the most part I feel the most comfortable in classic pieces that I can wear multiple ways day after day.
If you’re also trying to build a solid classic wardrobe filled with staples then I’m here to help! Building a classic wardrobe takes time. No need to buy everything all at once. Chances are you already have a few of these items checked off you list. Perhaps there are some gaps or some upgrades that need to happen. My rule of thumb when it comes to buying anything is to instantly love it the moment you put it on, confirm that it is flattering on your body, and decide how much wear you will get out it.
1. A Wardrobe of Jackets: I put a huge emphasis on building a wardrobe of jackets. They are the most versatile item you will own which is why I highly recommend you invest in a few good ones especially if you live in colder climates. They go a long way.
- A Neutral Coat or Trench: When the weather is colder (30-45 degrees) wear a wool coat in a classic color. I love this camel coat that I’m wearing and also love a black one and a grey one. Once the weather hits (50-60) I’d wear a lighter weight jacket in a softer tone like this one (I wore it in green this post) in khaki, green, or navy.
- Utility Jacket: If you don’t already have one, you’ll get so much use out of these. I wear mine with denim and dresses. You should buy a olive green one like this one first. I also like this hooded one and recently blogged about this grey one in this post.
- Jean Jacket: If you don’t have a denim jacket then you’re living under a rock. They’re so crucial when layering them with dresses. I like this on under $25 at H&M.
- Leather Jacket: This one isn’t as necessary as the above but I wear mine a lot and if you have an edgier style then picking up a leather moto will go a long way. I own and love this black Madewell one and also like these lighter suede motos (I own one in brown).
2. Long Sleeve Knits: I’ve mentioned this a few times but this was recently a void in my closet until recently. I’d much rather have a handful of simple knits than trendy blouses I hardly wear. If you’re a casual girl like me then you must buy a few great knits this spring. I wear them a ton on their own with jeans and layered under jackets.
- Crew-Neck Sweaters: My current favorite place to buy knits are Everlane and H&M. Buy a black, camel, grey, and cream to start then build from there.
- Cotton Knits: Once the weather gets warmer, transition to cotton. I love my tees from Saint James, Club Monaco, and Lou & Grey. I also like this Splendid one and this one from Monrow. They are all great quality so it’s worth spending the extra money on them. I can’t tell you how often I reach for mine!
3. Modern Button-Down Blouses: There’s nothing like a crisp blouse as a chic layering piece with jeans, skirts, or shorts.
- White Blouse: You can’t go wrong with a white blouse especially for spring. This one from Everlane is super simple.
- Blue Blouse: I love throwing on a striped blue button down with denim. So casual and comfortable yet chic at the same time. I like this one from Rails.
4. Flattering Jeans or Slacks: Buying jeans is rough for most people. It takes a lot of trying on, returns, and finally coming to terms with what works for your body. Think about the feature from your waist down that you want to accentuate (hips, butt, legs, ankles) and then determine what type of wash will work for you. Also, I’ve recently decided to pay more for my jeans because
- A Skinny Jean: Everyone should own a dark wash skinny jean. Period. They are flattering on anyone and everyone. I recently bought and love these 7s pair.
- Crop Jean: I’m 5’5” so most cropped jeans work from me and I love a crop jean for spring. It allows you to show off your ankles and pretty shoes. I have been loving a cropped flare this season and would recommend these MOTHER jeans that I’m wearing above. The material is SO comfortable. The moment I put them on I felt like I could sleep in them – they are SO comfy.
- Wide-Leg Jean or Slack: Wide-leg slacks are back! They are also super flattering on almost everyone. You need these Everlane pants. I bought them last year and am obsessed!
5. Neutral Bag: I am not a huge collector of bags but when I do buy they are always neutral. I love a tan or soft creamy color for spring!
- Crossbody Bag: I mostly own crossbody bags ever since they came in style years ago. They are so easy to tote around. Cuyana is a recent favorite of mine.
- Tote: For someone who needs to carry around a lot of stuff, a tote is a great bag to have. Again, Cuyana has a lot of great options.
6. A Versatile Flat: I’m a comfort first girl so investing in a great go-to flat that can go with any outfit is so important.
- Sneaker: I’ve become sneaker person in recent years. My favorite pairs: Converse, Superga, and Tretorn.
- Slides: I own and love these sandals.
- Loafer: Something to wear to work! I like this classic Madewell pair.
7. A-Line Dress: Whenever the weather finally starts to warm up, you’ll need to be ready to wear all your favorite dresses. Aline styles are super flattering.
- Solid White: I am obsessed with this Ulla Johnson dress or this one from Anthro.
- Solid Black: I really like this option from Anthro.
8. Timeless Sunglasses: A good pair of aviators are the way to go. The ones I’m wearing above are cheapies from Urban but these Ray-Bans will never go out of style.
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