Did you catch my “5 tips to shop smart: staple closet items” post?
If you did, perhaps you were able to implement some of those tips and thoughtfully go through your closet. Now you’re ready to start building your staple items as a foundation for putting together countless outfits with just a few key pieces. The goal is:
“smaller closet, intentional purchases, less shopping and more joy”.
Caroline Rector
We want to enjoy our lives– not feel buried under the mental, emotional, financial strain of finding something to wear.
Because as much as I love shopping, at the end of the day it’s just “stuff” and it will never fulfill us.
So again, staple closet items are articles of clothing that stand the test of time, stylistically and in quality. They can be worn in multiple outfits in a variety of different ways. For example, here is a basic tee worn three different ways with only closet staple items.
One last thing before we get to the shopping: when picking out your staple closet items, consider neutral colored pieces, or ones with a coordinating color scheme. Not that your whole closet has to be neutral or the same color, just your foundation of staples items. It will make it easier to mix and match your outfits.
let’s start shopping for some staple closet items!
Pants
These two pairs of Jeans each have extremely high reviews from 500+ people. A good solid pair of leggings is a must! I linked the crazy popular SPANX leggings (over 2,000 reviews 4.5 stars) as well as a more budget friendly option (which I have and love!). If you work in an office setting or are a teacher, a fitted pant with a fun color or pattern is a great option.
Black Skirt
There’s always a need for a good basic black skirt. If a plain black skirt seems too boring, look for small details to make it more visually interesting like this scallop hem or bow/knot tie.
Tops
A Basic V neck tee is a must! The one below (I’m also wearing it in the picture at the top) comes in several colors. I’d recommend at least one color and a neutral black, white or grey tee. A good chambray button up can be worn in so many different ways. A couple dressy blouse/tops, and a flowy cami (LOVE the scallop detail on this one too) are also great staples. stock up on a couple cardigans that are neutral colored or that will easily match other items in your closet.
Jackets
A denim jacket and a black blazer are two very different looks, but will go with just about anything!
Dresses
t-shirt dresses are a great layering item. Tie a denim jacket around the waist, add a blazer to dress it up, or put a cardigan or sweater over it. You can also switch out the shoes/boots to create completely different looks. In colder weather you can put leggings underneath too! A chambray dress would be a different option for the chambray top. Also look for an “any occasion dresses” that is flattering, neutral, and versatile.
Shoes:
A neutral colored flat and/or pumps are a must. A good pair of riding boots or rain boots are worth investing a bit more into for quality (read more on “when to splurge and when to save”). These riding boots are my favorite, and have stood the test of time, even in MI winters! I wear my neutral ankle booties most of the year, from September-May! In the summer, I switch them out for my neutral wedges.
Staple closet items recap list:
- Tops: black blazer, denim jacket, neutral tees, colored tee, chambray top, dressy blouse and cami, neutral cardigan/sweater
- bottoms: jean, legging, pant, black skirt
- dresses: t-shirt dress, any occasion dress
- shoes: neutral flats/pumps, riding/rain boot, ankle bootie, wedge
If you are still feeling overwhelmed at the thought of going through your closet, ask a friend to help, or look into hiring a personal stylist. Local ladies, Lexee from Yarrow Style Restoration offers some amazing services and she has such a beautiful heart for the Lord and for fashion! Be sure to let her know that Emily from Darling Little Life sent you!
Looking for more inspiration? Check out my Staple Pieces Pinterest board with wardrobe ideas for different seasons, lifestyles, and body types!
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