There’s something that happens in your 30s: Whether you want to or not (and whether you’re even aware of it or not), you grow up. Everything about your worldview becomes a bit more mature, and your style evolves along with it. While much of this evolution happens very naturally, for our wardrobe, that might not be the case. And as we get older, our clothes matter more.
It’s all about sleek pieces that’ll make you look chic at all times. A blazer, high-waisted trousers and ankle boots are just some of those timeless classics.
If that sounds like your life right now, then luckily, we’re here to help, because when it comes to clothes, everyone can sometimes use a nudge towards adulthood from time to time. For this reason, we’ve come up with 20 pieces you should own by the time you’re 30 that will make getting dressed easier and ensure you always look incredibly chic.
We all remember the day of Britney Spears–inspired ultra-low-rise jeans. They had their moment in the sun, but for a more lasting style reach for a pair of classic straight-leg jeans in a year-round suitable mid-wash.
While we fully commend the Kim Kardashian West look, some days we don’t feel quite so body-confident. Some days, we’re all for the more demure midi style as opposed to a body-con option.
Yes, there are thigh-highs, knee-highs and everything in-between, but trusty ankle boots will be the most loyal. Get a great pair and you’ll wear them as many times as you’ll make endless trips to the cobblers. Because that’s what people in their 30s do.
A piece of jewellery can be classic but on trend. Look to brands like Missoma who created fashionable but timeless pieces you’ll wear forever.
To help limit fast-fashion consumption and investing in pieces that last is smart. Case in point? The black blazer.
A trench is one of those pieces that looks effortlessly chic. If you invest in a good one, you’ll bring it out for years to come. Trust us when we say that you’ll have zero regrets once you have one of these in your outerwear collection.
If you’re after a way to give your outfit a new twist, finding a hair accessory you love is ideal.
You’ll never regret buying a pair of these. Why? Not only does it work for the office (when we’re next back in there, of course) but also great for weekends paired with trainers and a white T-shirt. Another hardworking item in your wardrobe.
Slip-on shoes that aren’t just your classic ballet pumps are a great way to do modern flats.
Instead of buying everything that’s on-trend, opt for pieces that flatter your figure, such as a wrap dress, which, to be honest, looks good on everyone.
Wear under blazers, dresses, over T-shirts and by itself with a pair of jeans. The slinky camisole is the perfect goes with everything top.
You might not wear a statement piece every day, but you know those days when you just don’t know what to wear? Allow us to introduce you to the printed skirt that will help solve all those problems. It requires minimal effort and will do all the talking for you. The midi length is way chicer than that one miniskirt you used to rely on.
This item has become ubiquitous among the fashion set (and those of us WFH). If you style them in the right way—with a white shirt or cashmere, for example—they can look less teenager and more grown-up.
Not to say that shorter shirts are off-limits, but a pencil skirt will work for many more occasions. They look so good with a sleek shirt tucked in and will be your workwear hero.
When you hit your 30s, you will be invited to an abundance of engagement parties, and, of course, weddings (again, once we’re going to them again). Make sure you’re prepared for any soirée that shows up in your calendar by having that one “wow” dress you can bring out again and again.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to introduce a pair of thanks to the bin thanks to too many holes. To save your wallet and wear tights that genuinely don’t ladder, invest in the best tights chosen by our fashion editors.
This’ll be your go-to skirt for when you have nothing to wear. It’ll be the do-it-all grown-up skirt that will make you look instantly chic without even trying.
Your younger self may have reached for a pair of six-inch open-toed stacked-heel stilettos, but the classic court is here to save the day. These go with everything, will never date and will create a confident posture rather than a wobbling on heels for the first time kind of look.
Trainers are really quite the personal choice. But my favourites right now? These New Balance dad sneakers.
The roll-neck is the most versatile piece of clothing (second only to the white shirt, of course). And that’s what we need in our lives now: Easy to throw on pieces that always look incredible.
