The Hardest-Working Staples to Buy Now and Love Forever

As an editor of a fashion website, I spend a lot of time reporting on new trends, new labels and new ways to wear things. However, you can't beat a classic, and it's arguably more important to build a wardrobe that you'll love for years, if not decades. Thinking of the longevity of your purchases not only is a way to have a more sustainable approach to fashion but also will help you to carve out a style that is timeless and feels truly you.

The idea of a capsule wardrobe created a real buzz around 2014 when a number of industry figures promoted a compact closet of pieces that all perfectly match. There are some items that we think will always rise high above trends, making them the perfect pieces to invest in and add to your capsule (or not-so-capsule) wardrobe.

From the jeans that have been popular for decades to the accessories you'll treasure forever, here are the chicest items that will quite simply never die.

1. Black Blazer

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(Image credit: @smythsisters)

Style Notes: A black blazer will work hard in your wardrobe year round; Wear it with jeans, leathers, leggings, skirts, dresses and more. We love Frankie Shop's classic style, but for a more affordable alternative, you can't go wrong with Arket.

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2. The Tailored Trousers

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(Image credit: @aidabadji_)

Style Notes: It doesn't get much more classic than tailored trousers. Whether you dress them down with a slouchy knit and boots or add polish with a shirt and heels, this is a chic staple that is sure to serve you for many seasons to come. Trust us.

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3. Chunky Boots

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(Image credit: @lefevrediary)

Style Notes: Comfy, sturdy and cool, the chunky boot will never let you down in the shoe stakes. 

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4. Satin Midi Skirt

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(Image credit: @monikh)

Style Notes: Longer lengths have proliferated over the last couple of years, with midi skirts becoming one of the fashion crowd's go-tos for a polished getup. Choose a simple black slip skirt or opt for a metallic or gemstone hue. 

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5. White Jeans

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(Image credit: @brittanybathgate)

Style Notes: When it comes to denim, we believe everyone should own a pair of white jeans. Style with a blazer or knit in winter and a blouse or silk cami in the summer.

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6. Bodysuit

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(Image credit: @emmahoareau)

Style Notes: In our experience, a neutral bodysuit is a serious multitasking wonder. Wear it with high-waisted trousers, slip it under a dress or layer it up with a shirt. 

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7. Trench Coat

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(Image credit: @alexisforeman)

Style Notes: Designers, editors, celebs and influencers all agree on one thing: A classic trench coat never goes out of style.

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8. Breton Top

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(Image credit: @femmeblk)

Style Notes: This was a wardrobe staple for Audrey Hepburn, too. We love how it can be worn in all seasons with a clever swap of layers.

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9. LBD

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: Another Audrey-approved buy? A little black dress that will last you decades if you opt for a classic shape. 

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10. Leather Jacket

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Style Notes: A good leather jacket will be in your wardrobe for years. Copy Sylvie and wear yours with other staples for an elevated look.

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11. White Shirt

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Style Notes: White shirts aren't just for work, as they will slot into your weekend wardrobes, too. 

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12. Leather Belt

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(Image credit: @lizzyhadfield)

Style Notes: Belts might seem like a boring purchase, but they can actually make any outfit look so much more put-together. 

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13. Simple Gold Necklace

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(Image credit: @natashandlovu)

Style Notes: A gold necklace is another chic item that will survive all your wardrobe clear-outs.

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14. Cashmere Jumper

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(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

Style Notes: Whatever age you are, a cashmere jumper is always considered a stylish luxury. 

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15. White T-Shirt

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(Image credit: @charlottekuhrt)

Style Notes: You might have to replace your white T-shirts regularly, but they will forever be wardrobe building blocks.

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16. Ballet Pumps

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(Image credit: @sabinasocol)

Style Notes: Ballet pumps are the skinny jeans of the shoe world. They're definitely one of the trending flat-shoe styles of 2023. Choose nude like Sabina or opt for classic black.

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17. Camel Coat

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(Image credit: @ada_oguntodu)

Style Notes: When it comes to outerwear, a classic camel coat never dates.

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18. Hoop Earrings

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(Image credit: @aysha.sow)

Style Notes: A pair of gold hoops is a solid investment whether they are tiny, simple rings or have a more statement silhouette.

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19. White Trainers

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(Image credit: @bubblyaquarius)

Style Notes: Simple white trainers—whether they're Veja or Converse—are also not going to date. 

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20. Printed Midi Dress

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(Image credit: @frannfyne)

Style Notes: It's always worth having a printed midi dress in your wardrobe. Dress it up or down with a quick switch of accessories. 

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22. Black Heels

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(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

Style Notes: Black heels are the pièce de résistance of trends, and you'll have them as long as the stilettos remain standing. Choose from a plain style, embellished pair or a mule. All are worthy of a place in your wardrobe.

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23. Heeled Ankle Boots

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: Ah ankle boots, you can never do wrong in our eyes. Chances are you already own and love a heeled pair thanks to their versatility and ability to go with just about everything else in your wardrobe.

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24. Leggings

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(Image credit: @smythsisters)

Style Notes: Yes, leggings are forever. Thanks to the numerous ways to wear them (from knits and trainers and the weekend to heels and a fun top in the evening) they have fully cemented themselves as a wardrobe hero.

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Next Up: 6 Classic Pieces That Are Set to Be the Foundations of My 2024 Wardrobe

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Emma Spedding