staple pieces

The Beauty of a Compact Wardrobe by Keren Ortega

What is a Staple Piece?

A wardrobe staple is a piece of clothing or an accessory that is not controlled by trends. These pieces are high quality, timeless, and can be worn with a variety of outfits. It’s a closet essential you always find yourself reaching for. These pieces are great because they make it easier to pick out outfits and they are much more sustainable than fast fashion trends that create waste and come in and out of style. You’ll always love a staple piece; it will never get old. You can dress it up or down and wear it with a variety of colors and accessories. I like to purchase pieces in basic or neutral colors made of material that I know will last and be comfortable to wear in any weather. When choosing a closet staple, try to keep in mind if you can pair it with a variety of clothes and if you will feel confident wearing that piece.

Staple Closet Pieces: A dress: Try wearing a sweater, cardigan, or button up over a baby-tee or turtleneck with tights underneath. You can dress it up or down!

Light colored pants:

It’s always good to have a nice pair of lightcolored bottoms to contrast dark pieces.

Trousers or linen pants are simple and on the lighter side fabric- wise. I like to have a nice pair of light bottoms as a staple because they are so comfortable and breathable.

Dark colored pants: These Y2k low waisted black pants (Wild Fable) Vicktryl is wearing are such a lovely wardrobe piece. I love their shape and these dark pants nicely contrast lighter pieces and look great with jackets.

Jackets: Jackets are not only chilly winter staples but can also bring an entire look together. Ultimately, you should choose a neutral-colored jacket you know you will wear. Jackets can really show personality, so choose something that you like. A black puffer is a great standard way to start your jacket search. It is gender neutral and chic, which is why so many celebrities wear it as a winter staple. These are great staples you can wear with lots of outfits and style choices.

Tights: Tights are one of the more feminine staple items and work with a skirt or dress and chunky boots, Oxfords, or Mary Janes. You can try assorted colors, but sheer black or sheer black with a classic pattern adds a dark but fashionable touch to any outfit.

Cardigans: A cardigan could just be a light jacket, zip, or button up sweater you wear open. You can choose a neutral color or wear a fun colorful cardigan over a neutral base. They give your outfit a different shape depending on whether they are cropped, longer, or oversized, making cardigans one of the most versatile pieces of clothing on the market. Long-sleeve white button up: This piece is so elegant. It is gender neutral and gives you a clean and formfitting look. You can wear it buttoned up with layers over, by itself, or unbuttoned with layers under.

Sweaters: Winter sweaters are a closet essential, especially for those with a more masculine style. A simple sweater keeps you warm, can be layered under a jacket or over turtlenecks, and looks good with any neutral bottoms. If you like something a bit lighter, crewnecks are great too. Choose a sweater made of high-quality fabric that you do not mind wearing. You can also wear necklaces over the sweater to give your look a finishing touch.

Jeans: A good pair of jeans can go with any outfit during any season. It's important to find a pair of jeans that are flattering and fit you well so you can be comfortable and chic.

A Final Note: When purchasing closet staples, or any clothing for that matter, remember to ask yourself if you will make good use of the clothing piece. Consider its quality along with its price. Are you just purchasing it because it’s trendy, or do you really love it? Will you feel confident wearing this? Don’t forget to follow this year’s trends with our tips and tricks.

Clothing provided by Lotus & Vine boutique