The Perfect Capsule Collection That Stands the Test of Time

If there's anyone at Who What Wear who knows how to sift through trending items to create the best outfits (that you can actually wear IRL), it's our editor in chief, Kat Collings. Name a trend, and she will tell you if it's worth buying into. I've been chatting with her to talk about the outfits we're most excited to wear when we head back to the office, and when I asked her what she's especially loving right now, she said she's focusing on what she calls "the finer details"—those chic tweaks that elevate her everyday looks. "Wearing a collar pulled outside your blazer is a look I'm really into. I've seen many women in the fashion industry trying it," she said.

With neutral staples and polished basics trending hard this year, I needed to know how Collings is going about mixing of-the-moment trends with her classic wardrobe. She tells me it's all about investing in those mix-and-match "capsule wardrobe" items that stand the test of time and knowing the perfect pieces to pair them with this season (and all the seasons to follow). "If you can picture yourself wearing the piece in several years and can envision a few outfits it can easily be incorporated into, then you probably have a trend-proof item on your hands that'd be a good addition to your closet," she explained. So where exactly does one find these essentials? Start with AG's Collings-approved collection. The five outfits below star her timeless must-haves (plus the perfect pieces to pair each with for an on-trend look).

SKINNY JEANS AND KNEE-HIGH BOOTS

"Tucking boots into pants is a look that is timeless and elegant. I leaned into the equestrian feel with a slightly preppy monochrome look. I like how the button fly on these jeans adds an extra detail to the look."

BLAZERS AND BLUE JEANS

"Was there ever a better combination than a blazer, button-down shirt, and jeans? I don’t think so, especially for a creative office like Who What Wear. I like that these jeans are a bit longer with a slight flare, and the distressing adds even more visual interest."

ACID WASH AND POPS OF COLOR

"The fit of these jeans is incredible. I would put incredible in all caps if it wouldn’t seem too shouty because that’s just how strongly I feel about them. I wasn’t sure if acid wash was for me, but it ended up being a completely wearable look. With any strong trend, like acid-wash jeans, my tactic is to add in one part basics (enter my perfect white T-shirt) and then elements that add a little something, like the red pumps, so the acid-wash jeans don’t stand alone or overpower."

MIDI SKIRTS AND FUN PRINTS

"Midi and maxi denim skirts are where it’s at this year, and a white version with subtle contrast stitching feels particularly fresh. I especially like how they look with tall boots, and this checkered knit was the perfect complement to show off the high-waist skirt."

BLACK PANTS AND NEUTRAL TOPS

"These pants are my new everyday. As in, I really struggle to put anything else on every day because they are so comfortable. I love the easy oversize fit and the button detail on the side. I could see them dressed up with a more polished or evening top or as a pair of pants to wear during Zoom meetings on Monday mornings. Okay, perhaps a wedding. I’ll draw the line there."

Find more editor favorites to round out your classic capsule wardrobe at AG here.