5 Timeless Wardrobe Essentials

What to choose to always stay on trend?

POSTED BY LIDIIA TRETIAKOVA

Fashion trends come and go, but some items remain stylish for decades. These wardrobe staples form the foundation of any outfit and work well for various occasions. Here are five timeless pieces you can always rely on.

White Shirt

 

 

Although the white shirt was originally intended to be worn as underwear, today, in my opinion, this clothing item is appropriate almost everywhere—except, perhaps, in the gym. You can pair white shirts with classic trousers to create an elegant, business-like look, or keep it simple by styling them with jeans for a more casual vibe.

Blue Jeans 

 

 

I think jeans are the most unpredictable item in this category, as humanity has never reached a consensus on what the perfect pair should look like. While choosing the right fit, shade, and cut is a highly personal matter, the key is to prioritize what feels most comfortable for you. For instance, I tend to prefer darker shades and more relaxed fits. For me, this type of jeans works with a wide range of combinations, whether it’s a simple hoodie or a polo shirt. 

A Black Dress

 

 

We’ve long known that every woman should have her own little black dress. However, Coco Chanel never faced the overwhelming variety of these so-called "legendary" dresses, like the ones you can find on Asos today. It would be fascinating to hear advice from the great designer herself, but for now, let’s figure out what might work best for the modern woman.

While Vogue interprets "little" quite literally, offering readers the classic design of an off-the-shoulder dress that ends above mid-thigh, I find myself wondering about the kind of woman who wears these iconic little dresses. High fashion has dictated that attractiveness and femininity revolve around sexuality, where a woman's body must be "exposed" to be appreciated. On runways and in photoshoots, the narrative of high and classic fashion continues to globalize uncomfortable "little black dresses," ignoring the fact that this captivating image is created not by the cut or perfect fit but by the designer's name and the context of an extraordinary, unattainable life behind the camera.

Fashion, at its core, should serve as a medium of self-expression, but too often it becomes a tool for comparison and unreachable ideals. Perhaps, the best little black dress for a modern woman isn’t the one that promises to embody the fantasies of luxury brands but one that makes the "little" feel personal and individual. Thus, the focus shifts from conforming to the widespread trend of bare legs to an individual effort to present one’s own vision of elegance. Restricting the choice of a little black dress to one specific type moves us far away from what Chanel originally stood for. Her idea never dictated how a woman should look but instead gave her the freedom to express herself. The true essence of elegance lies not in conformity but in individuality. That’s why you should choose the style that feels most comfortable and true to you—whether it’s a cocktail dress or a sundress.

A Trench Coat

 

 

Trench coats come in a variety of colors, from classic neutrals like beige, camel, and black to more modern options such as navy, olive green, or even bold shades like red or pastel pink. The choice of color can completely transform the vibe of your outfit. Neutral shades like beige or black are timeless and versatile, easily pairing with almost anything in your wardrobe, from jeans and sweaters to formal trousers and blouses. Darker tones like navy or olive green give a more polished look and work particularly well for business settings or evening outings. Bold or pastel colors add a touch of personality and can elevate a casual look when paired with simple basics like denim and white sneakers.

For styling, a trench coat looks fantastic over tailored pants and heels for a professional outfit or thrown over a dress with ankle boots for a chic daytime look. For a relaxed vibe, try pairing it with straight-leg jeans, a turtleneck, and loafers or sneakers. Don’t forget accessories—belting the coat at the waist can highlight your silhouette, while a scarf or statement bag can add an extra touch of style. 

White Sneakers

 

 

White sneakers are no longer just for the gym—they have become an essential element of any wardrobe, seamlessly combining style and comfort. Over the years, they have gained popularity as a great match for dresses and skirts, creating a fresh and modern look. While a dress or skirt paired with heels or ankle boots often exudes elegance and formality, white sneakers make the outfit much more versatile. They allow you to wear it for a variety of occasions—from a lunch date to a weekend stroll—without compromising on style or practicality.

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