Want a more personalized experience?
Create an account to save your favorite stories, products and access our exclusive content.
Find your Style Silhouette
Take the style quiz and dress your body with confidence.
How to Build a Versatile Wardrobe
Building a versatile and stylish clothing base is all about investing in timeless pieces that work well together and reflect your personal style. Here’s a guide to help women from their thirties to fifties build a strong wardrobe foundation:
1. ASSESS YOUR LIFESTYLE AND PREFERENCES
Consider your daily routine, work environment, social life, and hobbies. Are you more casual, business-casual, or formal? If you work in an office but enjoy weekends at the farmer’s market or dining out, you’ll need pieces that can shift between professional and casual.
2. EDIT AND CURATE REGULARLY
A great wardrobe evolves over time. Review and update your closet regularly to keep it fresh and functional. Donate or sell pieces you don’t wear, and consider what gaps need to be filled. If you notice you lack comfortable, stylish pants for travel, prioritize adding those the next time you shop.
3. START WITH THE BASICS
Basics are the backbone of any wardrobe. They can be mixed and matched easily and worn year-round. Invest in classic, well-fitting basics like white T-shirts, high-quality jeans, neutral blouses, and sweaters. Here are a handful of neutral selections:
WHITE BUTTON DOWN TOPS
HIGH QUALITY T-SHIRTS
NEUTRAL CASHMERE SWEATERS
4. CHOOSE VERSATILE OUTERWEAR
Outerwear can elevate an outfit, so it’s essential to have a couple of key pieces for different seasons. Look for jackets and coats that can be worn with both casual and dressy outfits. Here are some of the best picks:
TRANSITIONAL TRENCH COATS
WINTER WOOL COAT
DENIM JACKET FOR LAYERING
5. INVEST IN QUALITY FOOTWEAR
Shoes can make or break an outfit. Focus on quality over quantity, and make sure they’re comfortable. Invest in versatile, timeless shoes that complement various outfits.
NUDE + BLACK PUMPS
LEATHER + SUEDE ANKLE BOOTS
COMFORTABLE FLATS
WHITE SNEAKERS
DRESSY SANDALS
6. Add a Little Black Dress (or Equivalent)
The little black dress is iconic, but if black isn’t your color, find a dress in a silhouette and hue that you love and that works for multiple occasions. Choose a classic silhouette that flatters your body type and can be dressed up or down.
A-LINE BLACK DRESSES
WRAP DRESSES
8. Add Tailored Pieces
Tailored clothing adds polish to your look and gives your wardrobe structure. Include a few well-fitted, tailored pieces to wear with your basics. Here are tailored pencil skirt options, an essential for work:
PENCIL SKIRTS
