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Have you done a closet cleanse? One woman wrote about paring down to 10 pieces of clothing in her closet, and rumor has it that Bon Appetit editor Adam Rapoport has only four shirts that he rotates through. So recently I’ve been thinking about the trusty pieces I can’t stop wearing (and I’d love to hear yours)…
Tortoise shell glasses. My head is pretty big (as far as heads go), and it’s surprisingly hard to find cool larger glasses. Warby Parker has a great selection — I have the Bensen — and, thankfully, they’re affordable for people who, like me, lose their glasses all the time.
Perfect striped shirt. Striped shirts are a classic, but they’re not all created equal. This Etsy shirt is the best cut I’ve found over the years. Horizontal stripes can be tricky to pull off, but this shirt has a flattering boxy shape with a pretty dolman sleeve (the “flying squirrel look,” says Caroline). It’s a striped shirt with a twist.
Camel cardigan. A few years ago, while at the Children’s Museum of Art with the boys, I saw a woman wearing a camel cardigan over a grey T-shirt, and she looked so lovely and effortless. Since then, I’ve always had a tan cardigan (with pockets!) in my wardrobe. It’s one of those pieces I’m always reaching for, especially on chilly winter days. (This more affordable one is nice, too.)
Plaid shirt. Plaid is huge this season, and this shirt in particular has such a easy tomboyish cut. It’s also cotton (versus flannel), so it’s softer and drapes more nicely. I’ve been wearing it twice a week and hoping people don’t notice!
High waisted jeans. Ok, here’s the thing about high waisted jeans. They suck your belly in. They don’t stretch out as easily. You never get plumber’s crack! Bonus: This Madewell pair has a faded wash that only get better with multiple wears.
Black jumpsuit. I love seeing cool jumpsuits around, but until recently I felt a little awkward wearing one myself. I didn’t know if I could pull it off. But this menswear-inspired jumpsuit is amazing — the collar is flattering, and the drapey fit feels great. When you wear it with flats, it’s great for work; when you wear it with heels and lipstick, it’s sexy enough for a date night. (Here’s a similar style.)
Pajamas. Oh, men’s pajamas. They’re so cute for padding around the house, cuddling up to watch House Hunters and taking on trips, especially when you’re staying with people. J.Crew makes such a classic version (I have the white), and Target has a very cute set, too.
Black flats. Everyone needs a pair of black flats — they’re perfect for work, play and traveling when you don’t want to look like a tourist. These particular flats have a sexy elegance to them with the d’Orsay cut, and they’re comfortable to walk around in all day.
Magical bag that turns into a backpack! I literally tell strangers about this Swedish Fjällräven Totepack. The army green looks good for work and play, and it’s super rugged, but the coolest thing about it is the straps. You can carry it like a briefcase, you can sling it over your shoulder, or you can slip the straps through themselves to make a backpack. I’ve had it for five years and wear it to work every day. It’s also amazing for travel. I cannot say enough good things about it!
What about you? What do you always find yourself reaching for? Any recommendations?
P.S. My other everyday staple, and the loveliest fall jacket.
(Photo from England vacation last summer)
