The MVPs for Timeless Dressing
What’s a capsule wardrobe? It’s the foundation of your personal style—a curated set of essentials that make getting dressed fuss-free and enjoyable. It’s about owning fewer, high-quality pieces that mix and match effortlessly, so you can create endless outfits without a closet the size of Carrie Bradshaw’s. If you want some extra inspo, we had Allison Bornstein on Lipstick on the Rim who gave GREAT advice on building a capsule wardrobe and styling the pieces you own.
Basic Tees & Tank
Poor quality tees are not the move. They stretch out, lose their shape, and make you look like you care less (and not in an effortless way).
My all time favorite has to be my Khaite crewneck Emmylou tee. I have it in both black and white and wear it all the time.
And a high quality tank is a layering essential, and it can even hold its own when styled right. Invest in a few high-quality ones—you’ll wear them nonstop, and they’ll actually last the test of time. Always quality over quantity— tees, tanks, friends— you get it . Start with white & black, then get into additional neutrals.
A Chic Black Purse
Having a good leather tote is non-negotiable— a bag to rely on for busy days where you’ve probably packed way more than you need. They key is to find a bag that’s big and spacious, but not too big where it looks like it’s dragging you around. The one pictured below is my all time favorite black tote and it’s from The Row.
Plus every girl needs a good crossbody for the day to day that fits the absolute essentials. Bonus points if it doubles as a clutch, like my tried and true LOEWE flamenco bag.
Read also: Glow Up Secrets: My Tricks for Smooth, Radiant Skin
Crewneck Sweater
Confession: I own WAY too many crewneck sweaters. Like way too many, and I always find myself coming back to the same few, like my Jenni Kayne Everyday Sweater (or any Jenni Kayne sweater) and my Quince Boyfriend Sweater. You really don’t need that many— just a few in each of the colors you’ll wear most (plus a striped option to spice things up).
You can wear it with jeans for a casual look, over a dress, or throw it over your shoulders and kinda turn it into a scarf during winter. This is just such a staple in every closet.
–
P.S. If you use this link you can get free shipping on the Quince site — quince.com/lipstick
White Sneakers
This feels like an obvious one, but a great pair of white sneakers is such an essential for me. I love my Celine pair, but also Dolce Vita makes such cute (and affordable) ones, I love their Notice Sneakers and own them in so many different colors + patterns.
They are my ride-or-die and go with everything—dresses, jeans, skirts, you name it. You’re going to be reaching for them often so make sure it’s a pair you not only love, but is comfortable, too!
Black Jeans
Black jeans are sleek, slimming, and can be a bit dressier than your typical blue jeans. They’re also perfect for taking your look from day to night.
Here’s a super simple look I put together with my favorite black jeans from SLVRLAKE. I wore this fit to a podcast recording, then went straight to drinks and didn’t need to change which I love.
Classic White Button-Down Shirt
This is the piece that does it all. Pair it with trousers for a meeting, style a casual yet elevated look with jeans, or wear it open with a tank for that “off-duty” vibe. Bonus points if it’s perfectly oversized while also not being too boxy.
This was a traveling day outfit so as you can imagine, I wanted to be super comfortable. My Frank & Eileen Button down is always the perfect choice because not only is it insanely comfy, but it instantly makes you look and feel put together.
Strappy Heels
I’m all about neutral shades like a nude or a classic black for versatility. I have the Gianvito Rossi pair in the nude color and somehow, the 4” stilettos by Stuart Weitzman are one of the comfiest pairs I’ve ever worn. But I also LOVE a metallic finish, like the heels I wore at the Golden Globes —
I’ve always been a high heel girl and forever will be but I’ve also been loving a kitten heel lately which are so great for daytime wear. Whatever height your heart desires, find your go-to pair and keep her close.
