6 Things I'd Pick to Be in My Forever Wardrobe and 6 I'd Toss

In an effort to streamline my closet and shopping habits, I often like to take a moment to focus on my forever wardrobe. In my case (and many others), this capsule collection is often composed of elevated basics that will always look stylish and are guaranteed to get a lot of wear throughout the years. With that in mind, it's no wonder that I often lean heavily into classic pieces when creating the backbone of my closet.
During my wardrobe reset, I further edited my favorites into a cohesive collection of essentials I know I can and will rely on for many years to come. They all make for easy dressing and can be mixed and matched with trendy pieces that will come and go along the way. Think white button-downs, tailored blazers, and more. Keep scrolling to check out six pieces I'd pick for my forever wardrobe with a little visual outfit inspiration on how to wear each.
Store: Black Button-Downs
Swap For: White Button-Downs
While I do love a great black button-down, there's nothing like a classic white version. It instantly makes any ensemble look more put-together, making getting ready easy.
Store: Raw-Hem Jeans
Swap For: Simple Straight-Leg Jeans
Don't get me wrong; I'm a fan of so many denim styles, but simple straight-leg jeans will always have my heart. They work for just about any personal style and can easily be dressed up or down.
Store: Super-Trendy Dresses
Swap For: Timeless Black Dresses
Timeless dresses are part of the backbone of a great closet. The key is to find options that are simple without any super-trendy details. These always look fashionable and the styling possibilities are endless.
Store: Boxy Blazers
Swap For: Tailored Blazers
Boxy blazers are still a major trend, but there's something so classic and polished about a more tailored fit. The style elevates any look and can be worn a variety of ways.
Store: Chunky Loafers
Swap For: Classic Loafers
Classic loafers are always a mainstay in my closet since they are comfortable and stylish and help to ground any look. Wear them with everything from jeans to dresses.
Patent loafers are another stylish choice.
Store: Statement Bags
Swap For: Understated Bags
Bag trends come and go, but you can always rely on understated bags. Whether it's a classic black tote or a simple shoulder bag, these accessories will always have a place in your rotation.
I always like to have a pretty, neutral bag on hand.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Jennifer Camp Forbes is a senior shopping editor at Who What Wear, where she has worked in a variety of capacities including creative director and various editor roles. She’s a well-known shopping expert that’s sought out for advice and insight on the latest trends, outfit ideas, and fashion picks thanks to her thoughtful shopping roundups. Jennifer's lifelong interest in fashion led her to intern at Harper’s Bazaar as an undergraduate. Later, while working towards her masters degree in psychological counseling at Columbia University, she founded two digital fashion publications: Le Fashion and Olsens Anonymous. The popularity of both sites grew and after graduation she decided put her plans to become a therapist aside to pursue a career in fashion.
-
Until It's Warm Enough for Summery White Dresses, This Right-Now Alt Will Be Your Chic Best Friend
The perfect way to ease into cotton and linen.
By Eliza Huber
-
Kate Hudson Talks Rom-Com Beauty, Moon Rituals, and the Good Hair Day Products She Swears By
The actress has partnered with Joico as its first-ever global spokesperson.
By Marie Lodi
-
I Just Saved $360 by Purchasing These New H&M Flats Instead of the Designer Pair I Originally Wanted
Talk about a win.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
10 Who What Wear Editors, 64 Spring Buys—Inside Our Seasonal Mood Boards
Everything inspiring our wardrobes this season.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
Anti–Skinny Jeans Are Still Ruling in 2025—Finally, 15 Fresh Ways to Wear Them
Stealing these looks this season.
By Michelle Scanga
-
This Hailey Bieber–Backed Handbag Trend Is Everything to Me Right Now
I need it.
By Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour
-
I Just Created 5 Expensive-Looking Pre-Spring Outfits from Zara, Mango, and Nordstrom—You're Welcome
Outfits for everything from a wedding to brunch.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Found: The Only Nordstrom Spring Sale Picks You Need for Expensive-Looking Outfits
These gems are all under $150.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The 30 Items That Will Define Style This Spring
From Prada to Phoebe Philo.
By Eliza Huber
-
These Are the 2025 Versions of Every Basic Your Closet Needs
Bookmark this.
By Allyson Payer