As a shopping editor and the fashion connoisseur among my friends and family, I am always asked for style advice. One of the main requests I get is how to elevate a wardrobe in an effortless way. I pride myself on my own elevated closet, so I am more than happy to send my loved ones and all you lovely readers down the right path to putting together an elevated wardrobe of your own. Thankfully, it all comes down to easy key staples to get you started.
Below, I break down the essential pieces I would prioritize if I were to start over and build up my closet from nothing. There are five, in particular, that will carry you far regardless of the season. These standouts include relaxed pants, polished blazers, sleek black shoes, effortless dresses, and other strong yet simple options. Scroll on to discover each staple alongside some visual inspiration and my roundup of top picks to shop now.
Elevated Closet Staples to Shop Now
Relaxed Pants
& Other Stories
Satin Pull-On Trouser
These make a subtle statement.
Open Edit
Linen Blend Wide Leg Pants
Great for the warmer months.
J.Crew
Cosmo Pant in Linen
Joe’s
The Bowie Cotton Blend Drawstring Pants
Green is a neutral in my style book.
I’d wear these year-round.
ZARA
Linen Straight Leg Pants
Sleek Black Shoes
Franco Sarto
Pura Slingback Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pump
TKEES
Julia Kitten Heel Flip Flop
One of this season’s biggest shoe trends.
J.Crew
Sophie Ballet Flats in Leather
These are a personal favorite.
ZARA
Flat Leather Sandals
I bet these will sell out soon.
You’ll wear these for life.
Mansur Gavriel
Dance Kitten Heel Pump
Polished Blazers
Nordstrom
Collarless Textured Jacket
ALL THE WAYS
Kourtney Blazer
4TH ARQ
Eden Tailored Oversized Blazer
Open Edit
The Icon Relaxed Blazer
J.Crew
Margeaux Lady Jacket in Gramercy Linen Blend
Stellar styling happening here.
Open Edit
Short Sleeve Linen Blend Blazer
Bring on the compliments.
Standout Button-Down Shirts
Gap
Organic Cotton Poplin Big Shirt
I love a contrasted design.
This look is begging to be re-created.
J.Crew
Garçon Classic Shirt in Baird Mcnutt Irish Linen
ZARA
Zw Collection Poplin Shirt
Fashion people love a great red shirt.
Madewell
The Easy Poplin Button-Up Shirt
A great basic to stock up on.
Effortless Dresses
Topshop
Drop Hem Cotton Maxi Sundress
Ardrem
Ruched Scoop Neck Maxi Dress
Carrying my chocolate-brown obsession into the next season.
Reformation
Balia Linen Dress
J.Crew
Reverie Dress in Cotton Poplin
The neckline and the price make this a no-brainer.
Banana Republic
Viscose-Linen Scoop-Neck Mini Dress
ZARA
ZW Collection Satin Effect Halter Dress
Perfect for an upcoming wedding.
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