12 Wardrobe Staples You Didn’t Know You Needed

Let’s be clear: It’s ok to be basic. Yes. I said what I said. Everyone was not made, nor cut out to be a baddie. With that being said, let’s discuss basics, wardrobe Staples. They are the backbone of any closet. Your tried and true standbys, ready at any given moment, and always down for whatever. Every wardrobe needs a good set of basics. But what basics, is the real question. One would argue that it would depend on the individual’s style. Because all basics, just like styles, are not equal, or serve the same purpose to each individual. To help serve as a guide, I’ve taken the liberty to create a series that breaks down staples into 4 style categories, Minimal, Chic, Street, and Boho. I’ve also taken the liberty to photograph myself to give a few examples (go ahead, now you can judge me). Let’s begin with the style of Minimalism.
Minimalist style is all about paring down. It’s very no fuss, yet very put together at the same time. Usually, their is very little color outside of blacks, whites, and greys, but modern minimalism adds in small bouts of earth tones, blushes, pale blues and even textures such as animal prints (gasp!). When placed together properly, minimalism can look quite polished, sophisticated, and elegant. So what does that look like for basics? Let’s dive in!
The following is my list that every Minimal wardrobe should have:

1. Slim-Fit Maxi Dress- neutral color maxi dresses are a must! They hide a plethora of sins ( such as cakes, pies, bloating, rolls) as well as serve as a great quick to immediately look pulled together, while being cute at comfy at home. Great for that pop-up guest that shows up on your doorstep.

2. Jumpsuit- The adult onesie! Equivalents to a dress, only pants are added. This is a great no-brained outfit that allows for a little more flexibility than the maxie dress. This is ideal for last minute errand running, and mother’s of toddlers, or multiples. Can be dressed up or down with heels or flats. A blazer for a Zoom meeting, denim jacket for a backyard 10-minute wine down (because remember, that’s all that your kids will allow).

3. Black Jeans- An absolute must-have. These are the swap out for black slacks. The home-version, if you will. The plus is that you can get them dirty and no one will ever know, until they smell. But during quarantine, who’s that close to you anymore?

4. The White Sneaker- Goes with everything. Duh.

5. Racerback Tank Tops-Minimalism is all about being basic, but not blah. Racerback tanks add just the right amount of extra without changing the style aesthetic. A little bit of sexy mixed the casual “I really don’t care” cool. It’s the best!

6. Ankle Pants- When you need to take it up a notch for that secret dinner party you’re hosting during a global pandemic/quarantine. No ones taking pictures, so it really isn’t happening, right? But you still just have to look somewhat polished.

7. Heeled Mules- Because you need them for those ankle pants for the secret dinner party! In a great neutral color!

8. Tee Shirt Dress- Perfect for the next day virtual happy hours with your tribe to discuss all of the tea from the secret dinner party.

9. Textured Print Jeans-Preferably in grey. Bonus points for snake skin. Ideal for when you need to stunt on the people at the grocery store by showing them quarantine ain’t got nothing on you!

10. Slim-fit Pants- Date night with bae. Pair with a slinky, or low front top, and nuff said. It’s quarantine, after all.

11. Shorts- Grab these staples when taking the kiddos for a walk in 90 degree weather so that you can “appear” to look cute and cool.

12. Black Leggings- You have to disguise any possible weight gain, while keeping some form of clothing that can grow with you. Thank me later.
    

So, there you have it. My complete list of Minimal Staples. Need some visuals for all of this? No problem. Check out my Fashion page on the site. And even better, check out the visual on my YouTube channel at Chicago Style Cult on July 14 at 5 p.m. CST.
Is there anything I missed? Let me know! I love to get feedback. Until next time…

Yours in Style,

XoXoMo