One of the core themes you’ll find on Treats and Trends is creating a wardrobe that revolves around basic, timeless pieces. This is important for three reasons: first of all, if it doesn’t go out of style you don’t have to buy new coats, jeans, etc. every year (yay for saving money!). And second, when you have a variety of simple pieces in your closet it’s easier to mix in trendy items. For example, if you want to try a poncho like I did in this post, it’s easy because you have neutral items to style it with. Lastly, when you have a collection of versatile pieces you can create a new outfit with items you already have. I put this casual, weekend look together in seconds before doing some Christmas shopping with my husband. My closet is full of light layers since it never gets too cold here in Vegas (except for this week, it’s been FREEZING! Literally lows of 28 and so windy.). I stick to neutral colors, like white, tan and olive, because it’s easy to mix and match different pieces when they are in a similar color palette. I enjoy using my wardrobe basics to create a chic, minimalist outfit.
These are four wardrobe basics I swear by:
- White Jeans. These are a staple year-round. I’ve dedicated a few posts to white jeans, like 10 ways to style them for fall and how to wear them in winter. I love how they brighten up an outfit more than regular denim and look really crisp. Whether your personal style is minimalist, boho, edgy or feminine, white skinny jeans can be mixed into any wardrobe.
- Layering Pieces. When I don’t know what to wear I always start with a simple T-shirt or lightweight knit. From there it’s easy to add on a cute cardigan or blazer to make it a complete outfit. I found this striped long-sleeve top for only $10 and it’s been perfect for wearing under my utility jacket this fall. I also like to have lightweight turtlenecks, V-neck tees and camis on hand for layering.
- Utility Jacket. This is one of my go-to items. It can be worn with boyfriend jeans, dresses, skirts—the options are endless! Olive is one of my favorite colors for clothing because it mixes so well with other neutrals to create a chic look. The cinched waist on this one makes it flattering and not too bulky.
- Cognac Booties. I’m all about boots, so I jump at the chance to wear them as soon as the weather gets cooler. I bought these booties for under $40 this year and have definitely gotten my money’s worth! They are surprisingly comfortable for being so inexpensive and they go with everything. You can see how I styled them 10 ways in this post.
Utility Jacket | Knit Top | White Skinny Jeans, similar
Booties (on sale for only $26!) | Purse, similar | Sunglasses
What are your must-have wardrobe basics?
I love that palette so much!
http://www.fashionparadoxes.com
Such a good list of essential pieces! Utility jackets have been my favorite lately. I love how you styled everything here, too, it’s great inspiration!
Kathryn • simplykk.com
Thank you, Kathryn! I love how versatile utility jackets are.
I totally agree with your basics!! I still need to own a cognac booties though. This outfit is so cute!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Thanks, Rach!
I just love this classic look. Perfect for any season!
Shauna
http://www.lipglossandlace.net
Thank you, Shauna!
Great guide! I love your smile and your outfit! <3
x, Kat of Nested Thoughts
Aw thanks, Katherine! Great you liked the post!
YOu look gorgeous in this outfit. Utility jacket is the backbone of my wardrobe. Great post.
Love Ashon
http://ashonfashionary.com/
Thank you, Ashon!
I love this post! Gorgeous!
http://www.serendipitylace.com
Thank you, Lucinda!
I love your outfit girlie, you look so chic and comfy at the same time. The colors are cute too.
Have a great weekend!
Camila,
My Vogue Style | http://www.myvoguestyle.com
Thank you so much, Camila!
Such a cute look and totally agree on your pieces that everyone should have!
xo, Jennifer
http://www.publicistinpearls.com
Thank you, Jennifer!
I have white skinny capris, but I need to get some that are longer unless I just want to wear them with tall boots! Lol! I have all of these items, except the cognac boots! This outfit looks so nice on you!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
haha that works! Thanks, Carrie!
I am definitely a white jean girl all year long. Can I tell you that I remember the days when we didn’t wear them in the winter. The only good thing about that is they went on sale at the end of summer–ha ha!
jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Haha that would definitely be a plus! Thanks for stopping by, Jodie :)
Really great tips! Thank you for sharing. Xo, Ellese
Rock.Paper.Glam.
So glad you found them helpful, Ellese! :)
I agree with this list of essentials! My tan/cognac booties are some of my all time most worn. So much so I have justified several versions. ;) I wear my utility jacket all the time too.
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Haha definitely justified! Hope you have a great week, Amy Ann!
Wow! So interesting to hear Vegas was that cold. Loving neutral layers, definitely closet staples.
Jessica
the way to my Hart
It’s been festive to have chilly temps :) thanks for stopping by, Jessica!
I love, love your cognac boots! So pretty!
X Merel
http://www.andathousandwords.com
Thank you, Merel! I wear them basically every day haha
These pieces are such great staples!! You can never go wrong when they’re paired together.
http://www.maggiealamode.com
Glad you agree, Maggie :) thanks for stopping by!
I so agree with all of these! I recently sold my white jeans and need another pair in my life!
Annessa
http://www.seekingsunshine.com
Yes you do! haha I wear them almost more than regular jeans!
I totally agree, I think a utility jacket is a must! And I love white jeans, it’s always such a fresh look!
xo Bryn http://www.waketonroad.com
Thanks, Bryn! My utility jacket definitely gets a lot of use! Have a great week :)
I´m absolutely in love with your outfit!
Vanessa x | http://www.springlilies.com
Thank you so much, Vanessa! Hope you’re having a good Monday :)
This is such a great look! I love your utility jacket. Gemma x
http://www.jacquardflower.uk
Thank you so much, Gemma! It gets a lot of use :)