As a fashion editor, I spend a lot of time reporting on new trends, new labels and new ways to wear things. However, you can't beat a classic, and it's arguably more important to build a wardrobe that you'll love for years, if not decades. Thinking of the longevity of your purchases not only is a way to have a more sustainable approach to fashion but also will help you to carve out a style that is timeless and feels truly you.
The idea of a capsule wardrobe created a real buzz around 2014 when a number of industry figures promoted a compact closet of pieces that all perfectly match. There are some items that we think will always rise high above trends, making them the perfect pieces to invest in and add to your capsule (or not-so-capsule) wardrobe. From the jeans that have been popular for decades to the accessories you'll treasure forever, here are the chicest items that will quite simply never die.
Shop Classic Fashion Items You'll Love Forever:
1. The Black Blazer
Style Notes: A black blazer will work hard in your wardrobe year round; Wear it with jeans, leathers, leggings, skirts, dresses and more. We love Frankie Shop's classic style, but for a more affordable alternative, you can't go wrong with Arket.
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Arket blazers are a firm favourite among Who What Wear editors, so we're well-placed to say expect premium tailoring for a high-street price.
2. Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: It doesn't get much more classic than tailored trousers. Whether you dress them down with a slouchy knit and boots or add polish with a shirt and heels, this is a chic staple that is sure to serve you for many seasons to come. Trust us.
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COS always knows how to nail tailoring, and if you like your trousers longer with a wider leg, this is the pair for you.
3. Waistcoat
Style Notes: After becoming a huge trend last year, I think we can all agree that, in 2024, waistcoats have firmly cemented themselves as a classic buy. Wear yours with trousers, jeans, skirts or over a jumper during the winter months.
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This neutral style is such a winner. Add interest by layering it over a cream high neck jumper.
4. The Satin Midi Skirt
Style Notes: Longer lengths have proliferated over the last couple of years, with maxi skirts becoming one of the fashion crowd's go-tos for a polished getup. Choose a simple black or navy slip skirt or try a metallic or gemstone hue.
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The satin midi is the ultimate in day-to-night dressing.
5. White Jeans
Style Notes: When it comes to denim, we believe everyone should own a pair of white jeans. Style with a blazer or knit in winter and a blouse or silk cami in the summer.
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The slouchy shape works so well with a vest top and oversized shirt.
6. The Bodysuit
Style Notes: In our experience, a neutral bodysuit is a serious multitasking wonder. Wear it with high-waisted trousers, slip it under a dress or layer it up with a shirt.
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This will go with everything, from black and brown to white and other shades of beige.
7. The Trench Coat
Style Notes: Designers, editors, celebs and influencers all agree on one thing: A classic trench coat never goes out of style.
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This will never not serve you well, across all seasons.
8. The Breton Top
Style Notes: This was a wardrobe staple for Audrey Hepburn, too. We love how it can be worn in all seasons with a clever swap of layers.
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An oversized shape is a refreshing take on an age-old style.
9. The LBD
Style Notes: Another Audrey-approved buy? A black dress that will last you decades if you opt for a classic shape.
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The most timeless dress.
10. The Leather Jacket
Style Notes: A good leather jacket will be in your wardrobe for years. Copy Sylvie and wear yours with other staples for an elevated look.
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When it comes to leather jackets, the Whistles biker is top tier.
11. The White Shirt
Style Notes: White shirts aren't just for work, as they will slot into your weekend wardrobes, too. They go hand in hand with great denim.
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All of the Who What Wear editors love With Nothing Underneath shirts.
12. Leather Belts
Style Notes: Belts might seem like a boring purchase, but they can actually make any outfit look so much more put-together.
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It's simple, but essential.
13. Simple Gold Necklace
Style Notes: A gold necklace is another chic item that will survive all your wardrobe clear-outs.
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Layer this up with other chains or leave as is.
14. Cashmere Jumper
Style Notes: Whatever age you are, a cashmere jumper is always considered a stylish luxury.
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Simple, effortless and a staple piece you'll love for years to come.
15. The White T-Shirt
Style Notes: You might have to replace your white T-shirts regularly, but they will forever be wardrobe building blocks.
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The kind of thick cotton that doesn't go sheer and expose your underwear.
16. Ballet Pumps
Style Notes: Ballet pumps are the skinny jeans of the shoe world. They're definitely one of the trending flat-shoe styles of 2024. Choose nude like Lovisa or opt for classic black.
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Use these to make your all-black outfits feel fresh.
17. The Camel Coat
Style Notes: When it comes to outerwear, a classic camel coat never dates.
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Max Mara's camel coats are one of the best out there.
18. Hoop Earrings
Style Notes: A pair of gold hoops is a solid investment whether they are tiny, simple rings or have a more statement silhouette.
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A chunky everyday hoop that makes a statement.
19. White Trainers
Style Notes: Simple white trainers—whether they're Adidas or Veja—are also not going to date.
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Yep, you've seen these around for years, and they're not going anywhere.
20. The Printed Midi Dress
Style Notes: It's always worth having a printed midi dress in your wardrobe. Dress it up or down with a quick switch of accessories.
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A timeless print.
22. Black Heels
Style Notes: Black heels are the pièce de résistance of trends, and you'll have them as long as the stilettos remain standing. Choose from a plain style, embellished pair or a mule. All are worthy of a place in your wardrobe.
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You can trust Jimmy Choo to offer an exquisite, timeless pump.
23. Heeled Ankle Boots
Style Notes: Ah ankle boots, you can never do wrong in our eyes. Chances are you already own and love a heeled pair thanks to their versatility and ability to go with just about everything else in your wardrobe.
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Reformation's pair is so chic.
24. Leggings
Style Notes: Yes, leggings are forever. Thanks to the numerous ways to wear them (from knits and trainers and the weekend to heels and a fun top in the evening) they have fully cemented themselves as a wardrobe hero.
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No surprise, Wolford has created some of the best leggings this season.
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