The Closet Formula Every Woman With Classic Style Follows
Photo Credit:@iamemmanuela_
Building a timeless wardrobe is like building a house—you need the right foundation. Sure, chasing trends is fun, but nothing beats having a collection of classic pieces you can rely on year after year. Because here’s the thing: classic doesn’t mean boring. When you have the right pieces, getting dressed becomes easy, effortless, and—dare I say—fun.
If you’ve ever stood in front of your closet thinking, I have nothing to wear, it’s probably because you’re missing some key foundation pieces. The right basics can take you from “I don’t know what to wear” to “I nailed it” in five minutes flat.
Need Help Building Your Wardrobe?
Want to see how to style these pieces? Check out our Classic Style Outfit Guide for easy outfit ideas using classic pieces.
Not sure if classic style fits your personality? Take the Fashion Persona Checklist to find your signature style.
Ready to upgrade your entire wardrobe? Learn how to do it step-by-step with our How to Build a Classic Style Wardrobe guide.
1. A Relaxed Button Down To Wear With Jeans
A white button-down is the backbone of a classic wardrobe. Tuck it into jeans for a casual look, or pair it with a pencil skirt for work.
Style Tip: Roll the sleeves for a more relaxed feel or button it all the way up for a polished look.
Old Navy
Oversized Button-Down Boyfriend Shirt
$36.99
2. Breton Stripe Top
Channel your inner Parisian with a classic striped tee. It’s effortlessly chic and pairs well with everything from denim to trousers.
Style Tip: Tuck it into high-waisted jeans and add red lipstick for a French-girl vibe.
J.Crew
Vintage jersey johnny-collar shirt in stripe
$59.50
3. Black Turtleneck
A black turtleneck is sleek, slimming, and endlessly versatile.
Style Tip: Layer it under a slip dress or pair it with high-waisted trousers for a minimalist look.
Mock Turtle Neck
$19.98
4. Silk Camisole
Perfect for layering or wearing on its own, a silk cami adds a touch of luxe to any outfit.
Style Tip: Pair it with a blazer and jeans for an easy date-night outfit.
Amazon
Spaghetti Strap Blouses
$26.98
5. Tailored Blouse in a Neutral Color
A simple, well-fitted blouse can go from work to weekend with ease.
Style Tip: French tuck it into jeans or trousers for a relaxed but put-together vibe.
Tuckernuck
White Tie Front Bow Bea Blouse
$148
6. Straight-Leg Jeans
Straight-leg jeans are universally flattering and endlessly versatile.
Style Tip: Pair them with ankle boots and a cropped sweater for an easy weekend look.
Abercrombie
Curve Love Low Rise Ultra Loose Jean
$90
7. High-Waisted Trousers
Tailored trousers instantly make you look polished and pulled together.
Style Tip: Add a statement belt and tuck in a silk cami for an effortlessly chic look.
Abercrombie
High Rise Slim Boot Trouser
$100
8. Midi Skirt
Flattering and feminine, a midi skirt works for both casual and dressy occasions.
Style Tip: Pair it with a chunky knit sweater and ankle boots for a cozy-chic vibe.
Tuckernuck
Navy Cotton Eyelet Caldwell Skirt
$298
9. Slim Black Pants
A good pair of slim black pants will serve you for years.
Style Tip: Wear them with a button-down and loafers for a work-appropriate look.
Tuckernuck
Black Ponte Ashford Pants
$168
10. Wide-Leg Linen Pants
Breezy and lightweight, these pants are perfect for warmer months.
Style Tip: Style with a tank top and slides for an easy vacation look.
Old Navy
Extra High-Waisted Drapey Cargo Super Wide-Leg Pants
$44.99
11. Tailored Blazer
Nothing pulls an outfit together faster than a well-fitted blazer.
Style Tip: Layer it over a tee and jeans for an instant upgrade.
Tuckernuck
Navy Cashmere Benji Blazer
$358
12. Trench Coat
Timeless and practical, a trench coat works year-round.
Style Tip: Belt it for a more defined shape or wear it open for a relaxed feel.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Surrey Tan Cotton Twill Trench Coat
$798
13. Leather Jacket
Adds just the right amount of edge to any outfit.
Style Tip: Pair it with a slip dress and ankle boots for a night out.
Anine Bing
Black Recycled Leather Simone Jacket
$600
14. Wool Overcoat
A wool coat is a winter essential that elevates any outfit.
Style Tip: Opt for camel or gray for maximum versatility.
Weekend Max Mara
Camel Bazar Short Coat
$885
15. Pointed-Toe Flats
A sleek alternative to round-toe flats, pointed toes feel more modern.
Style Tip: Wear with slim black pants or a midi skirt.
Sam Edelman
Black Nico Flats
$130
16. Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are versatile, stylish, and work year-round.
Style Tip: Pair them with straight-leg jeans or a midi dress.
Veronica Beard
Taupe and Black Lisa Cap Toe Boots
$495
17. Sleek White Sneakers
Clean white sneakers make any outfit feel current.
Style Tip: Wear them with jeans and a blazer for a modern look.
Samba OG Shoes
$100
18. Low-Heeled Sandals
A low heel adds just enough lift without being uncomfortable.
Style Tip: Pair with linen pants or a summer dress.
Darby Slide Block Heel Sandal
$130.00
19. Structured Handbag
A structured handbag instantly makes any outfit look more polished.
Style Tip: Go for black, camel, or white for versatility.
Liffner
Leopard Micro Pillow Pouch
$575
20. Gold Hoops or Studs
Simple gold jewelry always looks elegant.
Style Tip: Stack small hoops or layer dainty gold necklaces.
Classic Huggie Earrings
$240
21. Oversized Sunglasses
Nothing says “put together” like a good pair of sunglasses.
Style Tip: Opt for classic black or tortoise shell frames.
DIFF Eyewear
Cafe Ole and Brown Sloan Sunglasses
$90
