I was recently asked on Instagram “If you had a capsule wardrobe, what are five items that would absolutely be included?” This is such a great question as the following 5 pieces have been my most worn items so far this winter, and are the foundation of countless cold-weather looks as you can see scrolling through my daily looks page. Considering what your most-worn pieces might be, and investing in high-quality versions you can enjoy for years to come is my #1 tip for building a timeless wardrobe.
A good wrap coat
A wrap coat is a timeless silhouette that works on every body. Dressed up or down, it's the perfect topper over a sweater and jeans during the day or a cocktail dress at night. I’ve collected a few at this point and love their versatility, but my camel hair wrap coat is by-and-far my most used coat in my wardrobe. I’d recommend finding a wrap coat that hits at or below the knee in a beautiful neutral hue, whether camel, navy, chocolate, black, or gray. Or if most of your wardrobe is composed of solid colors, an elegant plaid version can be a wonderful option as well. My favorite wrap coats come from Brooks Brothers, Tagliatore (as seen in this post), or Pissenlit (which offers lightweight options).
A great blazer
Adding a blazer instantly elevates any look. Pick one in a timeless fabric, such as camel hair, herringbone, glen check, tweed, or plaid to layer over your turtleneck sweater, and under your wrap coat. Picking the right length is very important as blazers should hit below the hip and may be oversized - but not too oversized - if you want it to last many seasons. Make sure the sleeve is not too short or too long - the cuff should hit just above your thumb bone at the wrist and a tailor can help you get it just right. I love throwing a blazer over a button up shirt and pair of jeans for cinching a blazer with a belt when paired with a skirt and heels.
A cashmere turtleneck
A thin, cashmere turtleneck sweater is my second skin all winter. Whether layered under a blazer, paired with a skirt, or even doubling up under a second sweater, this piece is a winter wardrobe workhorse. Turtlenecks are like a sweater and scarf in one and are the best way to stay warm on chilly days. They also frame your face in a lovely way and bring attention to what many would consider our best feature - our smile. I typically buy a cashmere turtleneck to match each of my coats - a combo that I call a “modern twinset” and instantly makes you look put-together and so very chic. I own this style in many colors, including black, navy, tan, chocolate, ivory, burgundy, and red - it truly is the foundation of most of my winter outfits! (On the off chance you don't like cashmere this rib knit turtleneck is also phenomenal!)
Classic jeans
While denim silhouettes may change every season, having a great pair of jeans in your closet is always a must. My current favorite pair have a high-waisted, relaxed fit (also love the look of these and these). The key to wearing this style is getting the right pair that hit slightly above the ankle with a high waist for tucking in sweaters and button down shirts. The slightly wider pant leg is the perfect complement to ankle boots as the pants can go over the top of the boot. There’s something very classic about about the shape and they're also incredibly comfortable!
A high quality bootie
Quality accessories are an easy way to elevate even the simplest outfit and investing in a beautiful pair of shoes is always my first recommendation, even before a nice handbag. It should come as no surprise that Sarah Flint is my go-to brand for timeless shoes and I especially love her low heeled suede bootie in espresso, which has been my go-to shoe this winter. Whether you opt for a chelsea boot or an elegant heeled option I always feel pulled together in a beautiful pair of boots.
OUTFIT DETAILS:
Tagliatore Coat (old, similar here)
J.Crew Corduroy Pants (perfect winter white pants!)
Sarah Flint Espresso 30mm Booties c/o (get $50 off your first order with “SARAHFLINT-STACIE50”
Tagliatore Coat (old, similar here)
J.Crew Corduroy Pants (perfect winter white pants!)
Sarah Flint Espresso 30mm Booties c/o (get $50 off your first order with “SARAHFLINT-STACIE50”
Thanks to Kate McReynolds for the lovely photos!
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