The Word on Every Fashion Person's Lips RN Is "Timeless"—9 Staples to Invest In

woman taking mirror selfie wearing an oversized button down and wide leg pants

(Image credit: @monikh)

In a fashion world that revolves around trends, there's a word that has become the mantra for every fashion person: "timeless." While navigating the constant change in fashion, our focus has shifted to investing in staples that transcend the repetition of passing trends. The current desire for and fascination with timeless fashion is reshaping the conversation, prompting enthusiasts to seek out pieces that stand the test of time. In this quest for longevity, fashion-forward individuals won't shut up about "timeless" staples that not only elevate your wardrobe but also serve as a testament to the allure of classic fashion.

Timeless fashion goes beyond the fleeting trends of the moment. It encapsulates a philosophy of enduring elegance and versatility. The current buzz among fashion enthusiasts centers on the strategic investment in pieces that boast longevity, offering a return on style investment that transcends seasons. Join us in this exploration of the wardrobe essentials that embody the sentiment of timelessness with the nine staples below.

1. Quality Belts

timeless wardrobe staples

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Investing in a good belt will surely take you places. Most belts go with absolutely everything, and they can really take a basic T-shirt and jeans to the next level. Naturally, I’m obsessed.

2. Tailored Vests

timeless wardrobe staples

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I’m wearing a vest as I speak, and even though casually working from home, I so gratefully feel like I’m all dressed up with somewhere to be. If you want to feel effortlessly put together, this is the timeless staple to know.

3. Trench Coat

timeless wardrobe staples

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With the weather being more temperate these days, it’s safe to say that a trench coat is a staple you can wear in most of the U.S. at least half of the year. During fall and spring, I live in this staple, and it deserves all of the praise.

4. Good Jeans

timeless wardrobe staples

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Jeans that are made from quality materials can last you well over a decade. It’s the investment worth making because of how many wears you can get out of each pair. This is an item I’ve never regretted purchasing for sure.

5. Elevated Tank Tops

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Tank tops are great, but ones that feel extra special are currently my favorites since I feel stocked up on the basics. A tank top with interesting straps, texture, or ruching will add something nice to your wardrobe while still being timeless.

6. Cotton Maxi Skirt

timeless wardrobe staples - white skirt

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Maxi skirts may be having a moment right, now but it’s well-deserved. This is a purchase that may come and go but will always be in good favor with minimalists who lean on timeless wardrobe staples.

7. Denim Miniskirt

timeless wardrobe staples - woman in denim skirt and jacket

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We saw the denim maxi skirt show up out of nowhere and dominate, but one thing that’s always remained constant is the denim miniskirt. It’s casual, chic, and cool at all times of the year.

8. Button-Down Shirts

woman in button down shirt and pants

(Image credit: @monikh)

No matter how many button-down shirts I own, I just keep wanting more and more. They're my most timeless fashion pieces, and when I take care of them, they stay in my closet for years.

9. Off-the-Shoulder Tops

woman wearing a strapless top and walking

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Off-the-shoulder tops have had a redux lately, and they've never felt more timeless. Both sleek and structured silhouettes win in this category.

10. Shoulder Bags

woman in wool coat and shoulder bag

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Crossbody bags will remain timeless, but right now, the fashion crowd is leaning toward shoulder bags, which also will never go out of style. Whether you go for a smaller style or an oversize bag that fits it all, you can't go wrong here.

11. Oversize Blazers

oversize blazer jeans

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You know we can't talk about timeless style without mentioning a quality blazer. Over the years, I've fallen for a lot of blazer trends, but the classic silhouette never fails me.

12. Perfect Pumps

woman in vest and pencil skirt

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Thanks to Prada, pumps are set to be huge in 2024. I'm settling into my favorite pairs that I've had for years and also doing some digging to discover more.

13. Wide-Leg Pants

strapless top and white pants

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When you need a break from blue jeans, give a pair of wide-leg trousers a spin. This is a no-fail staple that will look so good with every sweater in your closet and never go away.

14. Fitted Turtlenecks

woman wearing turtleneck and maxi skirt

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I didn't expect fitted turtlenecks to be on my radar as much as they are this season, but right now, I feel like they're the chicest option when it comes to fashion.

15. Wool Coats

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Let an oversize wool coat rule your winter wardrobe, and I promise you that you won't regret it. It looks good with absolutely anything that you throw on.

16. Leather Jackets

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It's been leather weather for a few months, and I am still wearing one almost every single day. This is a wardrobe staple that evolves over the years but never gets old.

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Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, trying the latest fitness craze in New York City, or exploring luxury vintage boutiques.