While we, as a team, pride ourselves on spotting trends and soon-to-be-sell-out buys from the high street and luxury labels, we love talking about classic and trend-proof style just as much.
Those two things might seem like a contradiction, but we’re firm believers that you can embrace each season’s trends in a way that feels timeless. Once the initial craze over a fresh fabrication or a revived ’90s silhouette passes, we don’t expect anyone to push their Instagram-inspired purchases to the back of their wardrobes. If you adopt a considered approach to shopping, you’ll only end up with pieces that can be incorporated into your looks for the long haul.
Below, the 10 classic outfit formulas I’ve spotlighted include styles that once were, or still are, considered ‘trendy’. But I’m sure you’ll agree, they feel like they’ll stay relevant for the foreseeable. I can speak from experience, because I’ve been relying on most of these combinations for as long as I can remember. And I don’t plan on discarding them any time soon…
Style Notes: The are few fashion dilemmas a blazer won’t solve, but I especially love the juxtaposition of this boxy silhouette teamed with a pretty, floral dress.
The whole Who What Wear team really rates this blazer.
A great wedding guest dress—especially if you’re attending a ceremony in the south of France.
Style Notes: If black feels too heavy for the look you’re trying to create, opt for a pastel iteration to go with your blue jeans. As we head into spring, switch out your ankle boots for some elegant slingbacks.
A good-mood hue if ever I saw one.
I own this exact pair and have had to force myself to stop wearing them every day.
Julie’s exact slingbacks, waiting for you to snap them up.
Style Notes: As the weather warms, I’ll be pulling out my floatiest cotton blouses to pair with dark denim. In my eyes, this is the ideal transitional outfit.
The tie detailing makes this piece feel so romantic.
COS nails the brief every time.
I’m just waiting for the right moment to add these versatile pumps to my collection.
Style Notes: Take note from Anouk Yve, because this is a fail-safe way to make your LBDs (long black dresses) feel more casual: just add trainers.
Comfortable and stylish in equal measure.
So many celebrities (Kendall Jenner and Olivia Wilde among them) are backing adidas trainers for 2023.
Style Notes: Whether you work in an office or simply like to dress with a professional flair, a pencil skirt and blazer will always do the trick. Take it from day to night with a simple switch of accessories.
The slightly nipped-in shape will really flatter your figure.
You could also incorporate this into a top-to-toe neutrals look.
No one does fuss-free basics quite like M&S.
Style Notes: Once spring starts, you’ll likely find me donning this combination every other day. There’s something about a trench coat and loafers that feels so French (which, of course, means I’m obsessed).
COS’ trench coats historically sell out fast.
Wear-with-everything shoes.
Style Notes: This was the knitwear trend of 2022, but I don’t need to explain to you how timeless stripes are. Wear your oversized jumper with wide-leg trousers and ankle boots, like Francesca.
This jumper has been a bestseller for two years now, and its popularity is showing no sign of slowing down.
The only wide-leg trousers you need.
Style Notes: In a chic example of high-low dressing, Rachael demonstrates just how easy it is to make a slip skirt feel laid-back. Come evening, just swap the trainers out for heels and tuck in a button-up blouse.
You’ll wear this cosy layer for years to come.
There’s a matching top available for more formal occasions.
These eco-friendly kicks are a staple of every footwear repertoire.
Style Notes: Leggings and riding boots = a match made in heaven. This sleek footwear option totally transforms the most basic black leggings. Now that’s teamwork.
This versatile knit is available in six neutral and bright shades.
Such good value.
These boots were made for… wearing every day.
Style Notes: Denim and leather have gone together since the 1950s—I’m pretty sure if they’ve made it this far, there’s no stopping them now.
A leather jacket that will last you a lifetime.
You’ll get a tonne of wear out of this once summer rolls around.
