Everything I Would Buy If I Started My Wardrobe Over From Scratch

I took inspiration from a variety of fashion influencers to build my own wardrobe over the last few years, and I couldn't be happier with the results. Creating a closet of everyday staples allows me to fill in the gaps with fun pieces of my personal style without spending unnecessary money on clothes I won’t wear often. 

I’ve compiled a list of my most-worn pieces to create a simple capsule wardrobe that works well for my 20s lifestyle. This collection of pieces can be mixed-and-matched to create endless outfit combinations for both work and play. 

Ready to see what pieces I would buy again? 

Classic Denim

Denim is the foundation for the casual wardrobe! I love a range of washes and styles, but I always come back to a medium-wash straight jean. This style is flattering on different body types, and it will work with any top in your closet. 

Shop below! 

Abercrombie High Rise Loose Jean, $90

AGOLDE Harper Mid Rise Wide Straight, $218

Structured White Tee

One of the most difficult pieces to find is the elusive perfect white tee. You can wear this tee with denim, with skirts, as a layer to your favorite sweater, etc. etc. etc. There is no wrong answer when it comes to styling this simple basic. You can also grab the same style in black, beige, and blue for endless styling combinations. 

I am fairly confident that I have found the perfect white tee. Here’s the one I've been wearing!

Abercrombie Essential Body Skimming Tee, $19

Solid Color Midi Skirt

Yes, patterns are fun, but a solid color midi skirt has the most flexibility in your wardrobe. You can wear these skirts year-round with tees or sweaters, depending on the season. Tuck your top into the skirt for a casual, feminine look that works for any event on your calendar. I wear these skirts weekly while teaching!

Add to cart! Add to cart! 

Quince 100% Washable Silk Skirt, $60

Sezane Sandy Skirt, $150

White Sneakers

The perfect casual outfit requires white sneakers! A crisp pair of white sneakers works with almost any combination of clothing, and they are comfortable enough for long days. I invested in a white pair of Veja sneakers, and they are one of the most comfortable shoes in my closet. And they are durable for all seasons. 

Here are two tried-and-true options depending on your budget!

Reebok Club 85 Vintage Sneakers, $90

Veja Campo Leather Sneakers, $175

Casual Sandals 

I live in Southern California, so sandals are my go-to shoe for most of the year. My everyday sandals trek across different climates and locations, such as the mall, the beach, the desert, the pool, and sometimes even the classroom. The only pair I will wear is worth every penny – invest in a neutral pair of Birkenstock sandals! 

I love both of these options! 

Arizona Soft Footbed Birkenstock Sandals, $140

Oita Birkenstock, $120 

Running Sneakers 

If hot girl walks are on your daily (err…weekly!) agenda, then you need to invest in a comfortable and supportive pair of running shoes. Ideally, your running shoes will match most of your active attire, so you’ll need to decide if neutral shoes or bright colors are more aligned with your personal style. 

Try one of these picks before your next workout! 

New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe, $70

HOKA Mach 6 Sneakers, $140

Everyday Gold Jewelry

Even the most basic outfit can be elevated with gold jewelry. I have a simple necklace stack that I wear every day, and then I add additional sparkle when I have a special occasion. This approach to my jewelry actually helps to curb unnecessary spending and allows me to invest in a few quality pieces that won’t tarnish or break after a few wears. 

The Gorjana collection has some of my favorite daily pieces that I have worn for years. I love their pieces for my sensitive skin, and they look cohesive when stacked together! 

Gorjana Bali Huggies, $48

Gorjana Parker Mini Layering Set, $125

Midi Dress

Midi dresses are sweet, feminine, and great for everyday wear. I gravitate toward solid colors or simple, understated patterns when buying midi dresses and instead focus on the silhouette of the dress. Square necklines are flattering on my smaller chest, so most of my midi dresses have this detail. 

Midi dresses are also work-appropriate (especially with a cardigan) and will be a staple piece in your wardrobe. 

Quince 100% European Linen Fit & Flare Midi Dress, $80

Reformation Mika Midi Dress, $248

Patterned Maxi Dress

Maxi dresses are a statement piece in my closet. Because the dress is the outfit, this is a fun opportunity to choose bold colors, girly patterns, and asymmetrical silhouettes. I wear these dresses to work as well, with cowboy boots, sneakers, or sandals, but I also wear them to parties, church, and dinner dates. You can’t go wrong with a pretty maxi dress! 

Add one (or both!) of these to your cart! 

ASOS DESIGN Square Neck Ruched Bust Maxi Dress, $60 

Free People Bluebell Maxi, $168

White Mini Dress

Another classic piece to have in your wardrobe is a white mini dress! Summer parties, daytime dates, and girls’ brunch all call for a white sundress. You can build an outfit with the other items on this list (gold jewelry, casual sandals) for a simple look that won’t look outdated by next season. 

The silhouette of this dress is up to you, but I would recommend investing in a quality fabric that isn’t see-through. White dresses either look chic or cheap, so you’ll want to shop accordingly! 

Check out these picks! 

SNDYS Isabella Mini Dress, $70

Reformation Anabella Linen Mini Dress, $228

Little Black Dress

Date night? LBD. Dinner with the girls? LBD. This classic piece is a wardrobe staple for myself (and most women!), and I have a few options in my closet. When shopping for a LBD, focus less on popular styles and instead choose a silhouette that fills you with confidence. The LBD is all about how you feel in it! 

Here are a few of my favorite options to get you started! 

Free People Meet Me in Maui Mini Dress, $70

LPA Giovanna Mini Dress, $228

Cowboy Boots 

I would argue that cowboy boots are becoming a staple shoe – you can wear them almost anywhere, and they instantly elevate an outfit. Especially during the summer months, cowboy boots add an Americana touch to your sundresses and denim shorts. And with the tall boot trend taking over this fall, cowboy boots are a fun twist on a fall classic. 

Need to grab a new pair? Check out these options! 

Coconuts Legend Cowboy Boot, $95

Jeffrey Campbell Dagget Western Boots, $270

Neutral Trousers

As a teacher, a comfortable pair of trousers is the foundation of my Mon-Fri attire. They can be dressed up or down with a simple change of top, they work for every season, and they offer the same comfort as my pajama pants without sacrificing on professionalism. If you work in an office or a classroom, I’d highly recommend grabbing a few pairs in basic colors: black, cream, and gray. 

A pair of trousers deserves a spot in your year-round wardrobe. These pants are a fan-favorite for a reason! 

A&F Sloane Tailored Pants, $90

Rue Sophie Classic Trouser in Black, $148

Matching Athleisure Set 

If you have fitness goals you’d like to reach, a matching athleisure set will help you feel confident on your way to the gym. I tend to purchase neutral sets and add oversized tees for extra coverage in public. Do whatever makes you feel your best! 

I love both of these sets for walks, workouts, and even lounging! 

YPB Active SculptLUX Square Neck Slim Tank, $45 

YPB Neo Knit Unlined Short, $40

Alo Yoga ALOSOFT Center Stage Bra in Oatmeal Heather, $58 

Alo Yoga ALOSOFT High Waist ⅞ Highlight Legging in Oatmeal Heather, $98

Evie deserves to be heard. Support our cause and help women reclaim their femininity by subscribing today.