Some of my favorite staples & a slightly invasive peek into my closet.

We all know by now that, sustainability and ethical practices are important when it comes to where we put our dollar. Especially when it comes to fashion, but let’s be frank— slow fashion isn’t always accessible. Whether we have budget constraints, our options are limited, or the brands we love don’t have the right sizing available, there are times we have to resort to fast fashion. I’m here to say, that’s okay! The key? Shopping consciously. Today, I’ll be discussing how you can build a great wardrobe foundation with thoughtful choices. I firmly believe that everyone should be able to have clothes they love, a way to express their personal style, and something that makes them feel good. No matter their circumstances! (I’ll also share a few links to a few of my favorite staples under $100 dollars, so be sure to read till the end!)

What to look for!

When shopping for staples, I think it’s important to have a good understanding of your style so you’ll buy things you’ll actually wear and want to keep in the long run! What is style though? There are many nuances to this, but there are some elements that I believe are the key factors in figuring out the foundation of our style. Let’s get into it!

Find the right fit: Cut, silhouette, and shape.

This, to me, is vital in making sure a staple feels like you. Sure, everyone needs a good t-shirt in their closet. BUT, it’s important to not just pull the first one you find on the shelf. We want to make sure that we’re buying something with intention; knowing that it’ll fit us the way we want. Fit is what make us feel confident and finding confidence will have us wearing those items over and over again.

Think about those go-to pieces you wear on repeat— maybe it’s those jeans from high school you still wear or that random top your aunt gave you. What is it that you love about them? Chances are, they provide comfort, look good, and make you feel confident!

Be sure to take note of what fit and silhouette you often gravitate towards in your current closet, so you can update on that. For instance, if you prefer a skinny jean maybe you’ll opt for another slim fit pant with a more modern cut or style. With the right fit for your preference and body type, you’ll have an item “for life” (no matter what brand it’s from) and a look that feels stylish and tailored to you. Take it from me, some of my most worn items are pieces I thrifted or bought on a budget in college, and I don’t plan on getting rid of them anytime soon!

I found these Levi’s jeans on sale and love how the exaggerated shape brings more volume and interest to any outfit. I also found this same pair on Macy’s for less than I paid, so score for you!

Find your rainbow: Choosing the right colors for you.

Figuring out what colors you feel best in is a key step when building your wardrobe staples. With every trend and color being sold to you, whether in store or online, it can get overwhelming quickly. Unless you’re someone who loves to wear every color available, it will be so helpful to narrow down what feels like you and what will work well with what you already own.

You may have heard advice like “every closet needs a white button-up and black trousers”, but if you detest dark colors or neutrals then will you actually wear them? Most likely, not. This is why taking note of the colors you naturally gravitate towards in your closet is essential. I’m not saying to go and buy every one of your staples in olive, but if you notice that olive green reoccurs in your closet, then perhaps you’ll see a theme that you love muted neutrals and opt for that palette instead. While a black jean may be a staple for me, your go-to might be a hot pink trouser! The goal here is to find shades and tones that you’ll reach for again and again.

For example, i’ve recently discovered that white isn’t for me. I discovered this while styling a black bolero I found at Zara many, many years ago (proof that fast-fashion can have staying power!). I remembered that I had the same bolero in white, but whenever I tried to style it, something felt off. Why? It’s the same versatile piece and it’s a neutral color, sooo, it should work, right? That’s when I realized a pattern. I historically avoided wearing all the white tops in my closet. I didn’t toss them all out, I’ll still make them work, but I did make a mental note to steer clear of white. Now, when I shop, I’ll check if an item comes in a color that works better for me— and just like that I’ve easily brought intention into my decision.

One of my favorite staples I’ve gotten in recent years is this Uniqlo mini tee! It has simplicity to it, is not too cropped, but short enough to wear with my mid-rise/higher-rise bottoms. Plus, It comes in a variety of colors (I have black and dark green). It’s also versatile enough to wear on it’s own or layered in more sophisticated looks.

By focusing on the colors that make you feel good and fit your style, you’re one step closer to building a wardrobe that’s both functional and uniquely yours!

Texture, Pattern, Fabric!

Along with color, texture, fabric, and pattern are some of the biggest factors that can make or break an item. When you’re browsing through the racks it can be pretty easy to spot what’s worth your money. If the fabric feels thin or plastic-like, or if it’s see-through- when it’s not supposed to be- those are easy passes for me! Whether you’re shopping online or in-person check the materials and compare it to pieces you already love. Often, you’ll find that the certain fabric make-ups can feel similar across these types of brands. You may also consider exploring their “sustainable” or “premium” lines (many fast-fashion brands have adopted this). These lines tend to feel more durable and have a bit more intentionality behind it.

I also like to compare how an item feels and looks to some of my most worn pieces. This is essential in building a foundational wardrobe because you’ll want everything to mix and match effortlessly. Details like texture and pattern are also subtle ways you can balance or juxtapose an outfit. My closet leans towards more soft and relaxed textures, since I dress more casually. I love to add in something elevated, however, like a silkier top or a leather boot to bring in contrast.

When making these decisions ask yourself if this pattern or texture is something you can see yourself wearing a few years from now. Again, this should only matter to you! If you’re a animal print lover for life, then go for it! Just make sure it is something that excites you, makes you feel wonderful, and works with the wardrobe you’re building.

I once found a nylon skirt while thrifting that has been a true staple in my closet ever since! You’ll be surprised at how common these are to find, so definitely check your local thrifts! I also came across some on ThredUP, so you can check there too if you’re an online shopper. This one looks so cool and I wish it was my size, tbh! (And yes, you can find them at Uniqlo too—by now you probably know I’m a Uniqlo girl through and through.)

Uniqueness!

This may sound a bit more abstract, but it’s my favorite thing to think about when building a foundation of items: How can a staple feel unique? I believe that it’s a mixture of all of the above— fit, color, texture, and those small details that catch only your eye.

If you find something that checks all the boxes- flattering fit, favorite color, amazing texture/print— it’s a winner for sure. But when you also find those things with unexpected details, it can make the piece feel extra special! Maybe it’s a bold pattern mixed with a cool texture. Or perhaps, it’s simple details like fun buttons, a hidden pocket, or a hood that folds into the collar (i’m looking at you, Uniqlo windbreaker). These touches are small, but they are often the ones that excite you and make it worth picking up!

I recommend making a list of details that you find exciting. Think about functionality and practicality too! Do you live in a rainy city? Look for fabrics that are water-resistant or pieces that can go with the unpredictable nature of the weather. (Again, this only has to matter and work for you!) My favorite find is a cropped jacket I found on sale in Japan. It’s basic black, but has amazing ruching details on the exaggerated sleeves, silver detailing (i’m a silver girlie), and a hood to give this edgier piece a practical touch. It’s the kind of piece that goes with everything but feels so ME!

When it comes to finding “uniqueness” shopping secondhand and thrifting are your best friends. You’ll find some true treasures that not everyone else will have, and often at a steal! Even if thrifting isn’t an option, you can still find those standout pieces in fast-fashion stores. It might take more digging and a keen eye, but trust me, it’s so satisfying when you find something that is just meant for you.

Round-Up!

These tips are simple, but make a big difference. Once you start fine-tuning your foundation, shopping will become less overwhelming and way more intentional. You’ll feel empowered to build a wardrobe that is seriously you, with minimal guilt and much more excitement!

So when you go shopping next remember:

1. Is this shape and silhouette the best for me?
2. Do I wear this color often or can I start wearing it often with what I already love to wear?
3. Does this fabric, pattern, and texture match the quality of the things I own or want to own?
4. Do I feel like this is unique to me and my closet?

What do you think of these tips? I’d love to hear if it’s helped you! If you have a tip of your own, be sure to let us know in the comments below!

Also, as a shameless plug— If you liked any of the advice/suggestions I shared—I offer personal styling services on Indyx! You can find me here and learn more about Indyx here!

Thank you, love you,

Rae