Before you go on, no, this is not a story about jeans, white T-shirts, and tote bags. While those are all wardrobe staples, today, I am here to chat with you about pieces that once were wardrobe basics but somehow became trendy. These pieces then managed to make themselves right at home again in the basics section of our wardrobes.
Last year, we saw the rise of minimalist, expensive-looking style (some would even describe it as “bourgeoisie”), which ended up altering the way women viewed style and outfit composition in its entirety. What used to be a severe focus on trends shifted to a rampant acquisition of quality basics (i.e., relaxed suiting, nice knits, and practical accessories).
In a way, this major sartorial shift kind of is the trend. Suddenly, we look in our wardrobe and it’s filled with neutral hues and tailored separates, and the trend section has been replaced solely with basics, which brings me to my main point: The re-identification of basic wardrobe staples as “cool” shifted our closets entirely, and after a couple of years and multiple seasons, the nine items below have officially been deemed trend-proof.
To me, this means that basics were able to come back to life and find their home once again in the “wardrobe staples” section of our closets again. The nine pieces ahead have done exactly that, having passed the test of trendiness and timelessness entirely.
Here, I’ll walk you through the nine wardrobe staples I am deeming trend-proof this year—including mules, cardigans, and more.
Style Notes: Mules have reached peak “slip on and go without thinking twice” status. If that isn’t the definition of a wardrobe staple, I don’t know what is. Whether mules as a general shoe style shift and adapt to the current season at hand (i.e. square toes, mesh, kitten heel, etc.), they will always be “in,” and that’s a fact.
So classic, so chic. And the perfect height to take you from desk, to dinner.
Bottega’s padded mules have fast become a staple in any fashion girl’s wardrobe.
Staples needn’t be neutral. This pink pair of mules will serve you well season after season, year after year.
Style Notes: It seems as though women are slipping into wide-leg tailored trousers more than their everyday denim, further proving the versatility of this wardrobe staple. When this basic became “cool” again a couple of years ago, we weren’t sure how long the shelf life would be, but It girls have proven this trouser style has evolved from basic to cool to officially trend-proof.
H&M is a winner for comfy and classic wide-leg trousers at an affordable price.
These are some of the best trousers on the high street right now.
I have no doubt that a burgundy pair will stand the test of time.
Style Notes: Whether the cardigan is currently all over your Instagram feeds or is draped over your desk chair in case you ever need a light jacket, it will always be relevant. The ebb and flow of its hype is inevitable, but the wardrobe staple itself is here to stay, trend or not.
A beautiful cashmere cardigan is a great investment piece.
This cream style looks great with cosy separates like a wool midi skirt or silk trousers, but can also be worn over a floral dress come summer.
Simple, yet so effective.
Style Notes: You don’t need to be reminded that button-down shirts are a wardrobe basic, but the fashion crowd set out to make them a “thing” again (and with great success, might I add). Well, the initial excitement of the button-down has lost a little of its lustre since its initial rebirth, but the item itself is still here to say as decades past have proven. Since we have yet to see a slow-down in this more practical way of dressing, we expect the button-down to stay along for the ride.
So many Who What Wear editors own and love this shirt, mainly due to its cool, relaxed fit and wide cuffs. Perfection!
A striped shirt will never let you down.
Another high-street hit that is worth investing in.
Style Notes: Can you remember a time when we weren’t talking about chain necklaces? I can’t. While the preferred widths and lengths have certainly changed over the years, the chain necklace has rarely gone out of style, and we don’t expect it to any time soon. Whether you wear one solo like in the picture here or layer them for a more statement-making moment, this necklace trend has surpassed the test of trends.
I love this dainty take on the chain necklace.
You can always pick up great jewellery at & Other Stories.
Layer up chains for a modern look.
Style Notes: Chelsea boots, like mules, get tweaked every season just a tad, but at the end of the day, they are still the same Chelsea boots you know and love. This season, we saw exaggerated lug soles and higher legs, but that’s pretty much it as far as updates go, so if you’re looking for a boot to invest in, this style will give you years of style and practicality, hands-down.
Grenson boots are well known for their classic shapes and ultra comfy soles.
A boot that comes up higher on the leg is a great choice when wearing skirts and dresses.
Note the contrasting stitching on this pair.
Style Notes: It is so common to see big blazers now, but that’s because they have officially cemented themselves into the basics section of our wardrobe. There was definitely a time when blazers just weren’t as cool (they felt exclusively like workwear only) and didn’t feel as practical. Thankfully, the slightly oversized and structured nature of the ones we wear now have proven they are here to stay, trend or not.
No, we will never stop talking about how great this blazer is.
I’ve got my eye on the Frankie Shop’s Gelso this season.
A checked number also counts as a classic. Wear with denim and heeled boots for an easy and effortless look.
Style Notes: A while back I started acquiring a handful of pretty weird-looking bags that certainly read more “modern” than “heritage.” I predicted these peculiar shapes and sizes would diminish in popularity as time went on, but thanks to brands like Charles & Keith, Yuzefi, and The Row (just to name a few), these odd little fellas have done nothing but claimed their rightful place in our wardrobes as the cool bags you can grab—no matter what’s going on in the trend space.
A real investment piece, but one that you’ll love and wear forever I’m sure.
I just love this! An interesting bag can instantly elevate even the simplest of looks.
For a pop of colour, look to editors’ favourite Charles & Keith.
Style Notes: Ah, the slip dress. What was once a firm fixture in your nightwear drawer has now made its way to the big leagues and is a favourite in all fashion girl’s capsule wardrobe, year round. Wear it with just about every other item on this list such as a blazer and mules in the evening or a cardigan and Chelsea boots on a chilly weekday. What’s not to love?
A black slip dress can be worn in so many ways. I like to layer a chunky knit over mine and add knee-high boots.
The lace detail on Coutille’s style is just so pretty. Picture this with sandals and a raffia bag in the summer…
Reformation does slip dresses so well. Case in point, this stunning red iteration. Add gold accessories for an evening-ready look.
