YOUR STAPLE WARDROBE
Written by: Marina Townsend
Now this staple wardrobe write up is coming from the voice of one self proclaimed fashion babe. I have personally been through multiple style eras as I am sure you have also, but my journey has been a very personal identity search. In my early years of understanding that what I wear was being judged I opted for a unique upcycle vibe. From the ages of about 11/12 I stole my mum and dad’s clothes and made it my own until I actually had money of my own at 15 when I started working to buy the latest trends which still ended up being customised with a needle and thread. I have said before that trends dictated by the hidden power voices of fashion are simply recycled fashion from every decade with evolutions in fabric and patterns.
I say this to say that staple pieces are different to ever changing trends. They are classic choices that will ALWAYS be ‘trendy’ and I can say that because I am yet to see them declared obsolete. Yes the type of Jeans that are socially acceptable may change but if you keep it simple, you are pretty much on to a winner.
This staple wardrobe highlights essential pieces worth investing in for durability and long-term savings. They form the foundation upon which you can build. Let's start with my personal favourite:
THE BLAZER
Now, a couple months ago i would say to opt for any oversized blazer but now, today, i say opt for a structured, box shoulder oversized fi. It's a classic cut that gives shape and oozes versatility; whether that be relaxed pants, boyfriend jeans, tailored trousers, skirts or dress, whatever the choice it not only works, it elevates.
The Frankie Shop stands out for me, emphasising designs that flatter the female form. Rather than settling for an £85 Zara blazer that the world and their mother will be in, consider investing a bit more during The Frankie Shop sales.
JEANS
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Now i don’t know about you but i was a Topshop jean girl always! I've since struggled to find consistent denim brands that cater to my physique. Consequently, I've transitioned to cargo pants and trousers. A lot of brands are made for the typical european shape that rarely gets past my thighs, with that being said, straight-leg jeans persist as a versatile option, complementing diverse footwear choices which is highly important, because although not everyday trainers, trainers most days :)
BASIC TOPS
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The vest tops should involve sleeveless, short sleeves, long sleeves and basic tees. I am not going to sit here and say that buying the LOEWE vest is a must for quality control because I genuinely believe there are basic tees out there that are better quality and a third of the price. So this staple doesn’t need too much attention but below are a few retailers that carry some good quality basic everyday tops.
LEATHER JACKET​
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This is probably the most controversial piece as there are so many different styles and with vegan leather being the preferred choice, what makes a good quality leather jacket? Vegan/faux leather can be made with different fabrics so it begins with that, then with the intricacy of each design. There are so many winning styles of Leather Jackets, so just pick your favourite and one you can wear with most outfits in your wardrobe.
LBD
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The little black dress doesn’t actually have to be a little black dress, it can also be a long black dress. The only stipulation I have is that it fits you perfectly and can be altered if necessary for when life happens and throws your body into an unplanned state.
TRENCH COAT​
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Year-round essential, especially for UK residents, the trench coat effortlessly elevates any ensemble. Consider it a lasting investment, transcending trends and seasons. My 9-year-old Karen Millen trench, passed down to my sister, underscores the enduring appeal of quality over price.