When you find that perfect white T-shirt, that one sharp blazer, and that dependable LBD that you can break out for any and every occasion, you never have to worry about “not having anything to wear.” That’s why the concept of a wardrobe staple is so enduring: A closet built on a streamlined selection of items makes day-to-day dressing infinitely easier. (There’s little guesswork required.) These 10 styles are those you can mix and match to your heart’s delight—whether you’re getting dressed for work, brunch, or anything that might come up in between. If you don’t know where to begin when it comes to building up the “essentials” section of your closet, these pieces should serve as an excellent primer.
Black Trousers
Whether you wear them to work or to brunch, a solid pair of black pants that you feel great in is a true Monday-through-Sunday staple.
A Plain White Tee
Is there anything more versatile? Whether you style that perfect T-shirt with a pair of jeans, a fancy skirt, or a slipdress, no closet is complete without one.
A Little Black Dress
No item is more of a blank slate for accessorizing and styling—and yet completely stunning on its own—than the LBD. It’s gotten us through some tough times and serves as a touchstone for any wardrobe.
Ballet Flats
There’s a reason everyone from Audrey Hepburn to Alexa Chung loves a good pair of ballet flats: They’re equal parts chic and comfortable. Use them to dress up your jeans and button-down combination, then seamlessly transition that same pair to a cocktail dress for night. Your outfits (and feet!) will thank you.
An Elegant Blazer
A great blazer is a true workhorse in any wardrobe. Need an extra something to pull together an office look? Look to a blazer. A great outerwear substitute when it’s not quite cold enough for a heavy coat? Again, a blazer. The can’t-go-wrong jacket to throw on over your cocktail dress? You guessed it: a blazer.
Slip-on Sneakers
Slip-on sneakers have hit critical mass (thanks, Phoebe Philo!), solidifying its place on the wardrobe-essentials list. Comfortable enough to walk miles in, but way more sleek than chunky dad sneakers, these shoes give any outfit an extra dose of cool.
A Striped Shirt
A classic Breton-stripe top looks just as good with slouchy denim as it does with a pencil skirt. Mix it with solids, florals, plaids, or other striped separates—we’ve never come across a piece it couldn’t complement.
Sleek Pumps
A confidence-boosting pair of heels are a solid footwear staple to keep in your rotation—even if they live under your desk, reserved for important meetings or an after-work appointment.
Dark-Wash Denim
If you’re shopping for fresh denim, trust us, make it a dark-wash pair. Not only do they work for a wide range of scenarios—including, yes, the office—they also don’t stain as easily.
A White Button-Down
Consider a white shirt your wardrobe’s pinch hitter. There are endless options for how to wear it: Pair it with a simple skirt or pants for a classic look, or layer it under a sweater or dress to give an outfit some added dimension.
