The 18 Timeless Items That Should Always Be In Your Closet
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As we enter a new year or new season, many people want a wardrobe refresh and are not sure where to start. However, there are some pieces that should be always be kept in your rotation because they never go out of style—plus, a closet clean out also offers you a chance to see which staples you already own and which timeless clothing pieces you still need to include.
What is considered timeless clothing?
Timeless clothing has an evolving definition, but it mainly signifies clothing items that are versatile, long-lasting, and can be styled in many ways. Most timeless clothing never goes out of style, meaning it’s consistently on-trend or an everyday item that you don’t need to swap out throughout the year. Timeless clothing includes many commonly worn pieces, like jackets, jeans, sneakers, boots and jewelry (if you commonly wear it).
18 Timeless Clothing Items to Keep in Your Wardrobe
Shop: BlankNYC Faux Leather Jacket
Image: Nordstrom
Leather jacket
A leather jacket is a must-have in many closets. It can make a casual dress feel fancy, provide texture to an outfit, keep you warm, and is simply edgy. One of the best things about leather jackets is how many styles and variations there are. You can shop from real leather styles, vintage jackets, and tons of faux leather styles. Black jackets are the most common, but brown or maroon are also great additions to your wardrobe. There are styles with zippers, belts, and patches, as well as more minimal looks, like a long-line blazer or one with only pockets. If you have a leather jacket, you can dress up any outfit.
Image: Amazon
Image: Nordstrom
Faux Leather Biker Jacket
Blank NYC
If you like extra details, you’ll love the buttons and zippers on this leather jacket.
Image: Levi’s
Vegan Leather Moto Jacket
Levi’s
For those who shop consciously, this vegan leather jacket is a great eco-friendly closet staple.
Shop: Cosabella Never Say Never Balconette Bra
Image: Cosabella
Structured bra
Not everyone likes a structured bra, but it’s a hard item to replace if you don’t have it when you need it. That’s why we recommend keeping one on hand in addition to your favorite undergarments and organic basics. It doesn’t have to be an underwire bra, but having a structured bra can help items like a formal dress or blouse sit well on the body. There are so many bra options now—seamless, mesh, and so on—you’re sure to find one that feels comfortable and flattering for you.
Image: Cuup
Image: Adore Me
Image: Nordstrom
True Body Boost Push-Up Bra
True & Co.
Get the oomph of a push-up bra without any gapping or pinching thanks to this bra’s seamless fabric.
Shop: Abercrombie & Fitch ‘90s Relaxed Jeans
Image: Abercrombie & Fitch
Straight-leg jeans
Straight-leg jeans and mom jeans are always in style. Sure, they’re called mom jeans now, but they were popular back in the ‘90s, too. A light wash pair is a staple for any closet because you can mix and match them to dress them up and down based on the occasion.
Image: Lulus
Forever A Trend High-Rise Mom Jeans
Lulus
This relaxed-fit pair of denim is great for everyday wear, thanks to the roomy legs and a low-slung waist.
Image: Abercrombie & Fitch
Curve Love ‘90s Straight Jean
Abercrombie & Fitch
For a vintage-inspired pair of jeans try this Curve Love light wash that is high-waisted and flattering on many body types.
Image: Madewell
Low-Slung Straight Jeans
Madewell
These light-wash mom jeans have a button fly and ankle-length hem that pair well with every kind of shoe.
Shop: Open Edit Rib Funnel Neck Sweater
Image: Nordstrom
Chunky sweater
A chunky sweater is timeless; afterall, who doesn’t love to be cozy? A chunky sweater can be a cable-knit, homemade knit, crocheted item, or vintage piece. These types of sweaters create many outfits, especially the go-to lounge favorite—sweater paired with leggings. But chunky layers are versatile, too. You can just as easily wear a sweater over a dress or tuck it into jeans or office trousers. While you may reach for this item most during the winter, keep it nearby during spring and summer as an optional layer for cool mornings or air conditioned indoor spaces.
Image: Amazon
Balloon Sleeve Turtleneck
Dokotoo
A loose cable knit sweater can help you avoid overheating while still keeping you warm. Plus, it comes in dozens of colors!
Image: Lulus
Turtleneck Pullover Sweater
Lulus
This cozy, wintery sweater adds depth to any outfit thanks to its thick turtleneck and ribbing accents on the cuffs.
Image: Everlane
Cropped Crewneck Sweater
Everlane
This crewneck sweater is made from Alpaca fur, which is soft like cashmere and less itchy than wool.
Shop: Free People Fair & Square Neck Duo Bodysuit
Image: Free People
Neutral Bodysuit
Bodysuits are a base layer that can provide warmth, a smoothing shape to your silhouette, or even function as an additional layer beneath your outfit. When worn under an outfit, a bodysuit in a neutral color—such as black, tan, or a skin-mimicking shade—can make low-cut tops less revealing. This layer is also key to staying warm in the winter, unless you prefer a thermal layer (see below for those). We love SKIMS bodysuits, but there are more affordable options available at Nordstrom, Amazon, as well as other retailers.
Image: Everlane
Short-Sleeve Crew Neck Bodysuit
Everlane
A short-sleeve bodysuit is an easy base layer under an outfit any time of year.
Image: Nordstrom
Everybody Fits Camisole Bodysuit
SKIMS
SKIMS’ popular Everybody Fits Bodysuit comes in over a dozen shades to look natural with different skin types.
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Sleeveless Halter Neck Bodysuit
Reoria
In addition to being a layer, a bodysuit is often worn as a top. This high-neck halter style is great for pairing with skirts and trousers.
Shop: Have A Nice Day Smiley Face Tee
Image: Amazon
Graphic Tee
It’s a wonderful thing that a graphic tee never goes out of style, especially because we often have so many of them—graphic tees can pile up from going to events, supporting local bands and businesses, thrifting, and vintage shopping. Plus, they’re so versatile. You can wear them with sweats, jeans, blazers, as pajamas, and everything in between.
Image: A&F
McLaren Graphic Tee
Abercrombie And Fitch
A&F has cute graphic tees lately, especially those relating to cars, soda, and beer, like this McLaren design that looks pre-worn.
Image: Etsy
Cleveland Browns Vintage Tee
Brooklyn Thread
Sport a tee from one of your favorite teams, and bonus points if it’s secondhand!
Image: Ransom
Bonsai Tree Tee
Ransom
Embrace a natural-looking graphic tee with this bonsai tree image and motivational text on a relaxed-fit unisex tee.
Shop: A&F Sloane Tailored Pant
Image: Abercrombie & Fitch
Wide-leg Trousers
Another essential bottom to own is a wide-leg trouser. The same pair of trousers can be both casual and dressy, making them an everyday staple. They’re a piece of classic clothing, and thanks to thrift stores, they tend to be easy to find and (relatively) affordable. The flip side is that you may need to sew, hem, or have your pants tailored. Trousers come in a full range of colors, too—so be creative!
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Wide Long Palazzo Pants
Tronjori
We love these plaid trousers because they can add pattern to an otherwise solid outfit.
Image: Lulus
Posh Mindset Wide-Leg Trousers
Lulus
For a pop of color, these mauve high-waisted pants can be worn for everything from a company conference to a concert.
Image: Madewell
The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant
Madewell
A consistent bestseller, the Harlow is a wide-leg button pant that comes in nine shades to match your vibe.
Shop: Free People School Boy Cashmere Cardi
Image: Free People
Cardigan
Similar to chunky sweaters, cardigans are another useful layer, but they are often more versatile because they open in the front. If you think that the average cardigan is boring, you can use TikTok hacks—like buttoning in a criss-cross pattern to make a different shape—to creatively tie and style cardigans in many different ways. Cardigans are also great for seasonal transitions, and if they aren’t needed, they’re easy to tie around your waist as an accessory or stow in your backpack or purse.
Image: Amazon
Image: A&F
Crew Pearl Button Cardigan
Abercrombie & Fitch
Add something cute to your outfits with this pearl button cardigan sweater.
Image: Nordstrom
Curve V-Neck Cardigan
ASOS Design
Don’t forget that cardigans can have different necklines; you’ll be surprised how often you want a v-neck instead of the common collar-bone style.
Shop: Free People Mock On The Spot Bodysuit
Image: Free People
Thermal layer
If you live in an area where the temperatures fluctuate frequently, thermal layers are the key to surviving those less-than-ideal days. A bodysuit or turtleneck can be great, but bottoms like fleece-lined leggings will keep your legs warm. Another bonus: Thermal layers can be hidden under other clothing so as not to be obvious, making these an easy addition to your wardrobe that can boost how many options you have. Plus, you don’t have to show these pieces off.
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Rib Crewneck Long Sleeve Top
Treasure & Bond
Wear this burgundy long sleeve as a layer under a cardigan or tucked into pants for a warm office outfit.
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Long Sleeve Thermal Undershirt
Thermajane
Thanks to the built-in heat retention, this shirt will keep you warm whether you’re skiing or out for brunch.
Image: Free People
Make It Easy Thermal
Free People
Who said thermals had to be boring? Shop fun colors and styles like this piece with lettuce trim and bright colors.
Shop:Two Piece Sweatsuit
Image: Amazon
Sweatsuit
Sweatsuits are the new WFH attire. They range from comfy matching two-pieces to your ratty—read: favorite—crew neck and sweats. Whichever you prefer, a reliable sweatsuit is timeless because of how often you reach for it. It’s the hangover or sick-in-bed outfit of choice, and these fluffy pieces are great for running errands or traveling in, as well.
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Asala Hoodie
UGG
UGG makes cozy blankets and slippers, so you can bet this jogger and pullover set will be like wearing a cloud.
Image: Amazon
2 Piece Sleepwear Set
Fixmatti
Sweat sets don’t have to be monotone. For a stylish option, this set comes in over 20 colors, including color-blocked variations.
Image: Adore Me
Dorothea Sweatsuit Set
Adore Me
For additional coziness, a sherpa hoodie and pant set will feel like a blanket on its own.
Shop: Lulus Taylor Black Suede Ankle Strap Heels
Image: Lulus
A Pair of Black Heels
Black heels are the key to many formal outfits, but they’re also great to dress up trousers and office styles or wear with jeans for a night out. Of course, one of the best things about shoes is how many styles there are. You could keep one simple black pump style in your wardrobe rotation, but if you wear heels often or have several events coming up, you may want to include a few more pairs. Some of the most popular heels are pumps, strappy sandals, kitten heels, clogs, platforms, and heeled Mary Janes. If you plan to have several pairs of heels, make sure they serve different purposes, like an open toe and closed toe option, or different heel heights for various occasions.
Image: Nordstrom
Abilyn Ankle Strap Pump
278 Edit Naturalizer
We love the strap that comes across the top of the foot for an added detail.
Image: Lulus
Maryna Black Pointed-Toe Mules
Lulus
Mules are versatile and easy to slip on and off; what more could you want in a shoe?
Image: Nordstrom
Hailenda Pump
Vince Camuto
If you like height, this platform pump will check all the boxes on your checklist.
Shop: We The Free Wesley Ankle Boot
Image: Free People
Boots
Boots are another a timeless shoe choice. Again, there are many different styles to choose from: Chelsea boots, rain boots, combat boots, calf- and knee-high boots, booties, heeled boots, you name it. They are the warm and versatile shoes that become your go-to pairs in the colder months with less ideal weather. We love to pair boots with jeans, trousers, dresses, and skirts for casual, down-to-Earth outfits. This may be one of the items on our timeless clothing list that you’ll want several of to create different styles. Personally, I have a Chelsea boot, a snow-ready winter boot, and a pair of sleek combat boots that I like to mix with my OOTDs.
Image: Nordstrom
Mable Knee High Boot
Sam Edelman
A knee-high boot pairs with everything from jeans to leggings to a midi skirt. You’ll wear these all year round.
Image: Nordstrom
550 Series Chelsea Boot
Blundstone Footwear
Blundstones last forever, or so we hear. Get a pair to wear on slushy, rainy days or for doing yard work in comfort.
Image: Revolve
Henla Boot
Dolce Vita
Contrasting boots can make any outfit spicier. These black and white heeled boots can be styled casually or dressy for any occasion.
Shop: Madewell Small Hoop Earrings
Image: Madewell
Gold hoops (Or silver, if that’s your vibe)
Jewelry plays an important role in style, and if you have a signature piece, make sure that it’ll stand the test of time. Gold hoops are one of the most worn earring styles, and there’s no question as to why: they’re simple and shiny, yet not understated. Gold hoops come in practically all sizes, shapes, widths, and variations. There is the classic gold hoop with smooth surfaces to consider—which you can find at most popular stores—but you can get creative with twists and hoops with gems that you can find at various jewelry boutiques and small businesses, and Etsy shops. If gold isn’t your thing, get a pair of silver hoops for everyday wear to match with your other gold or silver jewelry.
Image: Madewell
Puffy Hoop Earrings
Madewell
These chunky hoops are different from the ordinary pair you might be growing tired of.
Image: Nordstrom
Beveled Edge Huggie Earrings
Bony Levy
Available in both gold and silver, these hoops double as huggies.
Image: Amazon
Gold Hoop Earring Set
ADOYI
If you like to change your earrings often, get a set of hoops that you can mix and match depending on your mood.
Shop: Madewell Brightside Tee
Image: Madewell
Solid Color Tee
Some days all you want to wear is a t-shirt. Or, maybe you like to layer with cardigans or blazers atop classic tees. While graphic t-shirts are great, the importance and versatility of a solid tee can’t be overstated. You can pair it with countless outfit formulas since its simplicity allows for endless creativity. Don’t limit yourself to neutrals either, think about using this piece as a pop of color.
Image: Kotn
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Crewneck Tees
Amazon Essentials
If you’re looking for an affordable base layer, this two-pack is a great option.
Image: Madewell
Softfade Cotton Boxy-Crop Tee
Madewell
Look for a shirt that fits your style, whether it’s a long-line silhouette or this tee’s boxy crop.
Shop: Dress The Population Bailey Off The Shoulder Dress
Image: Nordstrom
Little Black Dress
No wardrobe is complete without the iconic Little Black Dress (LBD). Its versatility knows no bounds, from cocktail parties to dinner dates. The LBD is a piece waiting to be personalized with accessories—a statement necklace for a touch of glamour, a tailored blazer for sophistication, or even something as simple as a swipe of lipstick. The LBD’s endless appeal lies in its ability to make a powerful statement with minimal effort, and we swear everyone needs at least one.
Image: Madewell
Image: Nordstrom
Sleeveless Stretch Wool Sheath Dress
Theory
This round-neck black dress has a sleeveless, straight-body shape that you can dress up or down depending on the event.
Image: Amazon
Square Neck Bodice Dress
Qinsen
Another option is this square-neck, bodycon dress that hugs your curves for an hourglass shape that’s to die for.
Shop: Madewell Signature Poplin Oversized Shirt
Image: Madewell
Button-up
A button-up shirt is the epitome of polished versatility. Ranging from crisp cotton to silky satin, this timeless piece effortlessly straddles the line between casual and formal. Tucked into tailored trousers, it will boost your confidence and professionalism; tied at the waist with jeans, it radiates effortless coolness. The button-up shirt also makes a great layer, from the beach to seasonal transition outfits.
Image: Everlane
Image: Nordstrom
Striped Oxford Button Shirt
ASOS Design
This long striped shirt is perfect for an artsy outfit. It looks cute either tucked in or layered over an exercise dress or bike shorts.
Image: Quince
Oversized Linen Shirt
Quince
This affordable oversized button-up is made with high-quality 100% European linen.
Shop: Veja V-10 Sneakers
Image: Free People
Casual Sneakers
Casual sneakers will never let you down, especially since you can pair them with anything, according to the Wrong Shoe Theoryy. Whether you opt for classic white or a bold pop of color, sneakers can be edgy, chic, practical, and comfortable, all at the same time. Pair them with jeans and a tee for an easygoing weekend look or juxtapose them with a midi skirt for a fashion-forward twist. Sneakers bring an element of laid-back coolness to any outfit, making them an all-time favorite among fashion enthusiasts.
Image: New Balance
990 Running Shoe
New Balance
Dad shoes are trendy, so grab a pair to mix into your outfits to keep things casual.
Image: Nike
Air Max Bolt
Nike
Didn’t we say contrasting colors in a shoe are always popular? These black and white Bolts will draw all the attention.
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Ultra Raid Sneaker
Salomon
If you walk your commute or spend the day on your feet, you can’t go wrong with a pair of Salomons.
Shop: Madewell The Essential Bucket Tote
Image: Madewell
Catch-all bag
The catch-all bag is a reliable companion that goes with any outfit. (And ideally, it’ll hold everything you need.) Whether it's a classic tote, a chic hobo bag, or a stylish backpack, this versatile accessory accommodates your daily essentials while completing your look. Neutral tones or classic patterns ensure that your catch-all bag remains a timeless piece, easily transitioning from work to weekend. Plus, the spacious design makes it practical for everyday use.
Image: Nordstrom
Faux Leather Crossbody
Mango
We love a boxy crossbody that will fit everything from your Kindle to your on-the-go makeup essentials.
Image: Amazon
Corduroy Tote
Ayieyill
This tote is the perfect bag to toss over a shoulder as you head out the door, and comes in over a dozen colors, patterns, and textures.
Image: Nordstrom
Wordmark Boat Tote
Museum of Peace & Quiet
A boat tote is a sophisticated yet practical bag, especially thanks to the canvas that will keep its shape so you can reach in and actually find what you need.