I’m going to turn 39 at the end of the year, and while I have curated my wardrobe staples over time, I think I’ve finally settled on a capsule of the below 17 items. Now, well into my 30s, I think it’s safe to say I’m happy with these pieces and I would never switch any of them out for anything else. Yes, newer additions come and go, but these are the ones I wear most regularly. I’ve not included items like skirts or wedding-guest dresses because, as I’ve mentioned, this is about getting dressed daily, rather than for those special events where more unique pieces may be required.
This list isn’t about items that are just nice to have, either, nor is this list isn’t about keeping up with the latest trends. This list is all about pieces that will last in your wardrobe, and whenever you wear them, they will make you feel good and look stylish however the end up together. I own all the items I’ve featured below (and where that wasn’t possible, I’ve found something very similar), and they are my fail-safe options when it comes to getting dressed quickly and chicly. A formidable combination. They enable me to get ready without having to think about it—a life hack that can never be underestimated.
Of course, that’s not to say that anyone outside of their 30s can’t have all these items in their wardrobe and rely on them as much as I do; but I’ve definitely gotten to a point where having classic outfits I can reach for every morning is my preferred way to function. So keep scrolling to see the items I’ve selected. Even if you just had these to wear over and over again, you’d be very happy. Trust me on this.
Kim wears a white t-shirt with blue jeans.
I’ve never met a plain white T-shirt I didn’t like. My personal preference is a loose-fit soft tee that doesn’t feel too stiff. It needs to feel like you’ve worn it forever, and it’s like your second skin. I found the perfect white tee from Arket about six years ago, and I still wear it today.
Amazon is also a go-to for a great white tee.
Fran wears a trench coat with blue jeans and Birkenstock Bostons.
A great high-street trench coat.
A piece you’ll love forever.
Danielle wears a white shirt with split-hem leggings.
I’m a big advocate for shopping in the men’s section, and a few months ago, I found the ideal white shirt from COS. It’s just the right loose fit, and the material is thick but not too heavy.
A premium iteration will last for years and years to come.
Marianne wears a white vest with jeans.
Whether you’re wearing this with a pair of joggers or jeans, this top will get endless outings.
A classic.
Chiara wears a white jumper with striped shorts.
You know when you just want to feel warm but don’t want to look totally slobby? This is the jumper you need. I can personally vouch for Navy Grey’s knitwear as being great quality.
A soft-grey jumper will go with just about every other colour in your wardrobe.
Anouk wears white tailored trousers.
Chuck these on with loafers, boots or trainers, and you’ll look chic.
Wear relaxed with a tee or elevate with a tailored shirt.
Monikh wears blue jeans and a white blouse.
I can’t stress enough how important finding the right blue jeans is. I discovered a great pair from & Other Stories last year, and they’re easily one of the best I’ve ever worn. Smart, reliable and chic when paired with any of the above tops.
I’m also a big fan of Agolde denim.
Savi wears split-hem leggings and a blazer.
Perfect with a blazer for an evening out.
So easy.
Aniyah wears heeled black boots.
Black boots with a heel are the kind of boots that never go out of style and are great for working or going out.
A love-forever style.
Chase wears a pair of Nike trainers with chinos.
I love trainers, and finding a pair that’s cool and looks great with everything in your wardrobe is key.
You can’t go wrong with Vejas.
Dawn wears a pair of black sandals with tan tailored trousers.
I’m very easy when it comes to sandals. I like them sleek and simple.
I love an all black style.
Lea wears a gold chain necklace with pearl pendant.
The way to add instant polish to your outfit is to add a necklace. Anything gold, in my opinion.
Simple gold jewels are the best.
Danielle wears gold earrings.
Similarly, you’ll suddenly look super chic with gold earrings.
You can add charms to these to mix it up.
Madeleine wears a black blazer with wide-leg trousers.
The oldest trick in the styling book. If in doubt, add a black jacket to give your outfit some sophistication. Well, it works for the French.
This boxy silhouette is just right.
Emma wears a floral dress with tan sandals.
Perhaps the most “outrageous” item on this list, the floral dress just makes the cut as being a wardrobe basic. Pull it out for weddings, summer events or wearing over the top of a roll-neck and boots in the winter.
Such a pretty style.
Thandi wears a black cotton dress with minimal sandals.
It doesn’t have to be an LBD to make the cut. But a black dress that you truly love is such a great thing to have in your wardrobe. It will save you on so many occasions when you just don’t know what to wear.
Dress it up or down.
Charlotte wears a black bra.
Trust me on this: Paying a bit more for your bra will be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. If you can’t get fitted right now, try out our bra-size calculator.
