Welcome to the Nothing To Wear Edit where each week we curate the best picks from the topic we spoke about on the podcast. Listen to the full episode here.
I'm sure we've all been there — regretting those impulse buys that didn't serve us well or bring any joy in the end (sorry, Marie Kondo!).
If you're finding yourself constantly adding new pieces to your wardrobe yet still suffering from decision fatigue each morning, it's time to flip that script.
Here's the thing as a personal stylist: I swear by foundation pieces in your wardrobe. They often don't look like the most exciting things when shopping in-store or online compared to something more eye-catching, but trust me, when you have those pieces, it makes getting dressed each day so much easier.
Your foundation pieces are your go-to items, the building blocks that make getting dressed a breeze. Think of it like this — you can't build a house without a solid foundation, and the same goes for your clothes.
I've made plenty of style mistakes along the way, but over the past six years as a personal stylist, working with hundreds upon hundreds of women with shopping sessions and editing wardrobes, I've learned a thing or two about what truly works.
Let me share with you seven items that I've tried, tested, and swear by for both myself and my clients. These pieces will work hard for you, simplifying your style and ensuring you look fabulous every day.
Watch: Inside My Wardrobe | Coats. Post continues below.
1. A Striped Tee.
Let's talk about the stripe tee — a true wardrobe hero. This piece is incredibly versatile and effortlessly chic. It's the perfect layering item that can transform any outfit from basic to brilliant. Imagine this: a stripe tee paired with black pants and a blazer for a polished look, or tucked into a skirt for a playful vibe. Paired causally with leggings and a puffer vest, the options are endless. It's a staple that you can rely on season after season.
One of my current favourites at the moment is the long sleeve stripe crew neck t-shirt from Uniqlo. It's a winter essential and incredible value. This stripe tee is the foundation piece that will anchor countless stylish ensembles in your wardrobe.
I recommend: Uniqlo Long Sleeve Stripe Crew Neck T-Shirt, $29.90.
2. A Black Blazer.
When I tell you there's almost nothing a black blazer can't be styled with, I mean it. Gone are the days when blazers were strictly for the corporate world. This wardrobe staple has evolved into a versatile piece that can elevate any outfit, whether you’re going for a casual or dressy look.
Think about it: you can throw a black blazer over a casual tee and jeans for a polished, effortless look. Pair it with a dress for a sophisticated edge, or even style it with shorts and a blouse for a chic, unexpected ensemble.
There are so many different variations of black blazer you can get tailored, oversized, different fabrics. But one that I am loving at the moment is by Commonry. It comes in sizes 8 to 22, and what I love most is that they show the blazer on both a size 10 model and a size 16 model, making it easy to envision how it will look on different body sizes and body types.
I recommend: Commonry Double Breasted Blazer, 169.95.
3. A Crossbody Bag.
A crossbody bag is one of the most versatile and functional accessories a woman can own. These bags are perfect for carrying your essentials while keeping your hands free, making them ideal for busy days. They also have a great way of tying your entire outfit together, adding a touch of effortless style.
The beauty of crossbody bags lies in their versatility. One style that many of my clients adore is the "Plunder" by Status Anxiety. It combines practicality with sleek design, making it a wardrobe staple.
I always recommend having both a black and a tan crossbody bag in your collection. These neutral colours are incredibly easy to style with almost any outfit, providing a solid foundation for your accessory wardrobe. Once you have these basics covered, you can start exploring more fun and statement-making cross body bags to add some flair to your looks.
Pro tip: Wear your cross body bag so that it sits just above your hip. This placement is not only stylish but also flattering, especially if you have fuller hips. It balances your silhouette and keeps your essentials within easy reach.
I recommend: Status Anxiety Plunder Crossbody Bag, $179.95.
4. Tailoured Trousers.
A pair of tailored trousers in your wardrobe is going to work hard for you. Gone are the days of where the only option for pants was ultra-tight pants; fashion has thankfully evolved. Now, there are countless styles of tailored trousers that can be worn casually on the weekend for off duty vibes, to the office, or dressed up for an evening out.
When I say tailored, I also mean relaxed styles that can be worn casually with a knit top for example. Tailored trousers come in various cuts like straight leg and wide leg, and they are available in a wide range of fabrics. Think heavier fabrics for winter and light linens for summer.
One tailored trouser that I absolutely love right now is the soft pleat pant from Country Road. They usually bring them out in a variety of colours. They offer a polished yet relaxed fit, making them perfect for any occasion.
I recommend: Country Road Soft Pleat Pants, $249.
5. A Good Quality Coat.
Since we're in winter, a good quality coat is an investment piece worth every penny. Opt for a timeless colour and silhouette, and it will last you season after season. I've had a coat for over three years now, and every time I wear it, I still get compliments and questions about where it's from.
When investing in a coat, pay attention to the composition — what it's made of is crucial. Look for a high wool content for warmth and durability. Choose a colour that won't date, such as oatmeal, camel, black, navy, or even chocolate brown. These neutral shades are classic and versatile, ensuring your coat remains stylish year after year. Of course you can add colour and print if you'd like too.
One coat that I highly recommend is the Camilla Coat by Friends with Frank. It's on the pricier side, but it's worth the investment. The wool component makes it super warm, and its timeless style ensures it won't date easily. This coat is an investment piece that will keep you looking chic and feeling cosy throughout the winter months.
I recommend: Friends With Frank Camilla Coat, $799.
6. Sneakers.
They are now a footwear staple in many wardrobes, and for good reason. I personally wear sneakers more than any other type of footwear. Sneaker culture is incredibly hot right now, and the options are more fashion-forward than ever.
I wear my sneakers with dresses, skirts, trousers – you name it. Sneakers have become one of my clients' top requests for adding to their wardrobes.
I have a few styles and colourways for different occasions, but the most versatile sneaker that you will get the most wear out of, is one with a white base. Opt for something with a slimline toe rather than a chunky one to keep it sleek and stylish. A sneaker style that I'm loving right now is the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD. They come in a variety of colours, but a white base will be the most versatile. Personally as I've got my white bases sneakers covered, I have my eye on some gold and white ones– they're just stunning.
Sneakers are no longer just for casual days; they can elevate your outfit and add a touch of modernity to any look. Whether you're dressing up or down, a good pair of sneakers can be the perfect finishing touch.
I recommend: Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD Sneakers, $250.
7. A Pendant Necklace.
Jewellery can often be overlooked when it comes to completing an outfit, and I get it. There are so many elements to consider. When it comes to jewellery, the choices can be overwhelming: chunky, dainty, costume, colourful, the list goes on.
But trust me on this one: investing in something ultra-dainty can be a game-changer for your wardrobe. These delicate pieces can seamlessly finish off your look. For example, a plain white tee can transform when you add a delicate pendant or a little letter necklace. It takes your outfit from simple to stylish with minimal effort.
One piece I'm loving right now is the personalised bobble pendant in Gold, It also comes in silver and rose gold. It's the perfect example of how a small, thoughtful accessory can make all the difference. Give it a try — trust me, you won't regret it
I recommend: Francesca Bobble Pendant, $158.
Feature Image: Instagram/Emelia Morris.
