I'm a Classic-Style Expert—Here's My Capsule Wardrobe

When it comes to my personal sense of style, I usually veer on the classic end of the spectrum—and I consider myself somewhat of an expert at building the perfect mix of timeless pieces. Instead of jumping into the newest trends, I instead prefer to interpret them in my own way. I even have a rule that I follow when I add something new to my closet. I always ask myself, Is this something I can wear past the season? Will I want to wear it again next year?

By asking myself these questions, I end up cutting down on the number of pieces I purchase and have instead cultivated a collection of items I can wear again and again. While I do wear colors, I tend to stick to a palette of neutrals, including black, white, tan, and the occasional pop of red.

If you, like me, gravitate toward classics style over trends, I've rounded up my favorite pieces in my wardrobe. Ahead, shop the essential pieces in my closet and my capsule wardrobe for classic style.

A bustier-style top

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

This top is a newer addition to my closet, but it's the perfect thing to wear for date nights and dinner with friends.

The beret (yes, really)

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

It took me a while to warm up to a beret, but now I consider it a key accessory to pair with my outfits.

Wrap dresses

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

I particularly love this wrap dress because of its long sleeves and classic polka-dot print.

One-pieces, all the way

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

I'm partial to one-piece swimsuits and think the leopard print makes it feel more special.

A midi-length dress perfect for special occasions

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

Lately, I've been trading out shorter hemlines for a midi length.

An investment bag (worth every penny)

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

I bought this bag in Paris years ago, and it has proved to be one of my best purchases to date.

Layerable gold jewelry

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

I wear gold jewelry almost every single day and love layering everything from necklaces to earrings and bracelets.

An easy summer dress

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

To me, gingham is a classic print that will never go out of style, and it's also the perfect thing to wear for summer.

I can't quit the puffy-sleeve top

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

This silhouette is more trend-forward, but I really love the puffy-sleeve top for making a statement.

The perfect leather jacket

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

I spent years searching for a leather jacket and can say that this one is truly perfect.

A summer spin on the LBD

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

My favorite summer version of a little black dress.

Shoes that go with everything

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

I thought about getting these shoes for almost a year before buying them and love that they go with everything.

A dress with a sweetheart neckline

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

The sweetheart neckline is one of my latest obsessions.

Next: Here's how I became a fashion editor.

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Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.