Sandy Koszarek spent years working as a VIP stylist at Nordstrom with a focus on helping her clients build out their wardrobes. Now, she’s focusing on her blog, Stylish Sandy, full-time and is providing styling guidance through online shopping tips. One question Koszarek has consistently gotten from her clients over the years revolves around the key pieces that can help make a closet feel all the more fashionable. Naturally, Koszarek always has a shopping list up her sleeve. In fact, she thinks people who inherently "dress well” and receive compliments own a handful of specific items that are effortless and always chic.
Below you’ll uncover the staples this former VIP Nordstrom stylist thinks could be worth adding to a wardrobe to help create elevated looks. You’ll notice that the selects in question are all highly versatile and could be worn in a range of different ways and also suit a variety of styles. Keep scrolling for more, along with visual and shopping inspiration.
Button-Up Shirt
"Button-up shirts are timeless pieces to count on for effortless and chic looks. Both styles, traditional and oversize, can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion."
Well-Fitting Jeans
"Well-fitting jeans are essential for anyone who values chic and effortless style. Whether you're dressing up for a night out or keeping it casual during the day, current styles like a flare, wide-leg, or straight can be the perfect base for a stylish and effortless look."
LBD
"A black dress is a true workhorse in any wardrobe and a must-have for those with effortless and chic style. Dress it up or down, depending on the occasion. The possibilities are endless, making it a staple for any great dresser."
Blazer
"A blazer is an effortless and chic piece that can create polished and put-together looks. It's perfect for formal and casual occasions, making it a versatile and essential piece for any wardrobe. It's a personal favorite in my closet!"
Neutral Shoes
"Having neutral color shoes in your wardrobe is a must for creating effortless and chic outfits. Beige, black, and animal prints are not only classic, but they pair well with anything in your closet, making getting dressed easy."
Trench Coat
"A trench coat is a timeless and versatile piece that can elevate any outfit and make you feel polished and put together. Whether running errands or going to work, a trench adds a touch of sophistication to any look."
Statement Handbag
"A statement handbag is a must-have accessory for any great dresser. Whether it's a crossbody, tote, or shoulder style, it's the perfect finishing touch to any look."
Next, check out more standout shopping finds.
-
There's One Word to Describe These New 2025 Nordstrom Items: ChicAdding to cart.
-
It's Confirmed: These 8 2025 Trends Are Elite, According to Nordstrom's Associate Fashion DirectorGet the 411.
-
Nordstrom Has a Secret Sale Right Now, and It's Great—I Think These 30 Items Are the ChicestMassive deals ahead.
-
I Nearly Spent $820 on Kendall Jenner's Flats—Then I Found This $120 Alt at NordstromIt's strikingly similar.
-
These 29 Nordstrom Items Are Chic and Fresh—You'll Wear Them So Much in 2025Wardrobe builders ahead.
-
I'm a Former Nordstrom Buyer—These Are the 7 Trends I'll Wear More in 2025Modern looks ahead.
-
Get a Head Start on the Top 2025 Trends With These Key Pieces From the Nordstrom Half-Yearly SaleYou'll actually wear these forever.
-
The Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale Is Almost Over—40 Luxe-Looking Items to Shop While You Still CanUp to 60% off.
