My Wardrobe Non-Negotiables
If you’re going through a mid-year slump and need some direction as to where to head with your wardrobe, I’ve got you. I’ve put pen to paper with my wardrobe non-negotiables, which aren’t too dissimilar to a “capsule wardrobe” but more in line with the reality of my sort of day to day living. These items are less about corporate or on-trend clothing and more about functional day and evening wear.
While I won’t wear this sort of look from head to toe (you know I’m not really a capsule girlie), I can assure you these are always the most worn, sought after and necessary items to have scattered in your seasonal arsenal. Just add a few more modern or trend-based items for an individual look.
Here are the items I’ll forever update, add to and rely on for easy, stylish dressing.
Shirts, but more oversized than fitted. I’ve come to realise over the years that it’s about how to wear shirts rather than the piece itself — add a rolled up sleeve, wear with an unexpected item or layer with just a few buttons done up over a tank. Styling really matters with shirts of all types.
Blue jeans. Obvious, but a good pair will actually take you from day to night, just like the magazines said all those years ago.
Drawstring casual pants. Very much a personal choice but these have become my entire personality at different stages of life. Postpartum saviours after giving birth, a wonderful alternative to leggings when worn casually, excellent travel essentials. I swear by them and particularly love ones by Bassike.
White tees, tanks and long sleeve tops. For layering and to wear on their own, I always recommend stocking up and having different sleeve lengths and sizes depending on what you’re wearing.
Tan and black sandals. Go chunky or go slim, just make sure you have both as you’ll need them once the sunshine hits. I’m a fan of keeping these pretty classic and fuss-free, and I still advocate for Birkenstocks — either the classic Arizona styles or more modern, updated versions.
A blazer. Black is failsafe but I also really rate a subtle check design of some sort. With these my only advice is to buy once and buy well — cheap tailoring never works out in the end.
Layering jewellery. This essentially means have enough variety on hand to switch up your looks with ease. Chunky and thin necklaces, hoops and studs, sparkly or simple… you can never go wrong with a selection of jewels to wear solo or together.
A simple pump. Real talk, it’s very hard to find these that don’t veer towards ugly/corporate, but a modern-shaped toe, slingback design or suede texture all help. I’m always surprised at how much these are necessary for evening looks in the colder months.
Cotton summer dresses. To me, a cotton poplin dress is more attractive than a linen style, and I love the ease that comes with a plain but well made cotton dress. Matteau are my favourites but you can definitely get similar styles at more affordable price points too.
Simple, round neck knits. When it comes to knitwear, I always prefer classic designs and haven’t really felt the need to switch up my style here. A seasonal colour or print can help lift the mood, but to be honest I’m still a big fan of grey, beige, milky white and black when it comes to knitwear of all styles.
Fuss-free handbags. By all means, buy the big ticket designer styles too, but for an all-rounder option that you won’t tire of too quickly, a simple leather tote or shoulder bag is foolproof.
Cotton midi and maxi skirts. We’re really going to see these guys shine in summer, but even in the midst of winter, I love the feminine touch they give to knits, sneakers and long coats.
