You’re a capsule wardrobe master and never feel tempted to break your closet’s classic flow with trendy pieces; you live for dressing in elevated basics and thrive in wearing the investment pieces you know and love. If this sounds like you, you might think that switching up your wardrobe for the new year isn’t an option for you—and we’re here to tell you that you’re wrong.
Basics aren’t synonymous with boring, and you don’t need to dive headfirst into a trend to indulge in something fresh and new. You can continue wearing the classics while taking subtle spins on them that make them feel a little more exciting.
Even those of us who are the Meghan Markle dressers of our friend group can opt for pieces that are head-turning but are still classic enough that you’ll be wearing them for years to come. These basics feel anything but.
Tops
Arguably the hardest piece of clothing to find, tops can be hit or miss, so finding ones that you don’t have to replace every year is key. These are classic enough that they’ll be wearable season after season, but have a hint of something that draws the eye enough to carry an outfit on their own.
Coats and Jackets
You know what they say: When you can’t figure out what to wear, one of the easiest strategies for creating an outfit is to start with a jacket and build your look around it—and these jackets are so good, you won’t ever feel like you have nothing to wear again.
Dresses
Having a short list of dresses you can turn to in a pinch means that you’ll have a full outfit ready to go at the drop of a hat—and these are worthy of a spot in your capsule wardrobe. These are a step up from a LBD, but are classic enough that they’ll never go out of style.
Bottoms
Breaking out of the “jeans every day” box can completely transform the feel of an outfit. Turning to relaxed trousers or denim that’s flattering enough to be worn day in and day out is the key to nailing a classic, effortless look that even Meghan Markle would envy.
Shoes and Accessories
The cherry on top of any outfit, shoes and accessories should perhaps be the most carefully curated of all the wardrobe essentials. The trick? Finding ones that can be worn a million different ways.