Building a Wardrobe From Scratch: What Are My Wardrobe Staple Pieces?

Follow along to revisit your wardrobe staple pieces to determine if they align with your style! Learn what I would buy if I were to start my wardrobe from scratch.

In general, if you like the idea of slow fashion instead of overconsumption, stick with me!

I’m partnering with Power of My People, a slow fashion company whose fabrics are of a high quality and whose size range is phenomenal. 

However, you can achieve the same results with clothes from whatever brand/store you like best.

1. Denim (with a vintage focus!)

Since I love structure and veer toward more polished, timeless items, I like pairing this with the rough texture with a utilitarian, laid-back pair of jeans.

Vintage is worn-in and has more character, plus the cuts and heftiness of the fabric are of better quality. 

2. Tailored trousers

When I need to elevate an outfit, a sharp trouser is an absolute must. 

I look for a solid feel in terms of drape and fabric.

3. Dramatic skirts

I look for some drama when it comes to skirts. Unlike dresses and jumpsuits, a good skirt has versatility as a separate and can add personality to your outfits!

Check out how hard this thrifted, $10 lace midi skirt is working for me! It’s not an everyday staple but definitely a go-to foundation piece when I need it.

I also have a couple of mini skirts with interesting colors, patterns and textures. 

4. Button-up shirts

The button-up top is a wardrobe favorite of mine. I look for a one that’s slightly boxy and less fitted.

I prefer to be able to manipulate the fabric on my own to create different shapes and silhouettes. This one is 100% cotton and just the right thickness to get you through almost every season.

I altered the shape by tying a knot in the back to change the silhouette.

I look for cotton, silk, linen or blends of those fabrics since they feel good on my skin.

5. Long sleeve merino t-shirt 

Try wearing a long sleeve merino T as an under-layer. I love seeing the sharp, crew neck detail under my sweaters.

As an undergarment, it’s the first thing that touches your skin and I like the way the merino material regulates my body temperature. 

6. Knitwear with interesting details

I’m a big fan of knitwear, particularly pieces with interesting detail, like stripes.

Again I tend to look for something boxy so that I can manipulate the silhouette to my liking. I also pick sweaters with versatile hemlines. 

7. The third layer

The type of third layer I choose is dependent on what proportions and vibe I’m going for. This layer should not be restrictive or stiff.

I love this option by Smythe because it has the sharp structure of a blazer but its jersey fabric feels like a sweater!

8. A classic dress

Although I’m not a huge “dress person”, I recognize the power of having a few dresses to achieve that “one and done” style.

This is a stunning silk number from Lora Gene – another great, slow fashion company. It has such a beautiful drape and finish. 

It’s less about color for me (clearly!) and more about creating a silhouette that gives me ease of movement and feels beautiful. 

This very simple, cotton t-shirt dress looks phenomenal because of the cut. 

It’s important to tap into how you want to show up in the world and determine what elements will allow you to feel that way. 

9. Belts

Belts are one of my favorite accessories to manipulate silhouettes. I always like to have a thick belt, a standard width belt and a lighter and a darker color option. 

10. Sneakers, fancy flats and patent pumps

There are 3 categories of footwear I’ve realized I can’t function without. 

The sneaker: I usually gravitate toward flats, but a sneaker is handy, especially since we spend so much time on our feet. 

The main element that I look for in a sneaker is comfort. The only pairs I own (besides running shoes) are a tennis-inspired sneaker and a vintage-esque sneaker. I like that they have different vibes. 

I love that “undone styling” where a good pair of pointed toe flats anchors everything together. 

Your heels don’t have to be this high, but I do recommend owning black and tan options since they are so versatile.

For me, the patent finish is important since this shine adds interest and allows the heels to pair well with both casual and event dressing.

I’ve had this pair of pumps for about 13 years and they truly never fail!

11. A soft, structured bag

I had to save up for this Puzzle bag by Loewe, but I don’t like switching up my purses or putting much thought into whether it goes with my outfit. 

What I look for is a solid balance between structure and slouch. Slouchy bags have a bohemian, 70s feel while a structured bag is very classic and timeless.

I don’t want my bag to be the focal point of my outfits, it should just go well with everything I own. 

Building a wardrobe from scratch

If you were building your wardrobe from scratch, which piece from the list would be your first choice? Next, check out my 9 chic outfit ideas from one black maxi slip dress.