Have you looked at your closet lately? I mean, really looked at it? If the clothes you see don’t represent who you are right now, you’ve joined a fun club of 20-somethings who desperately need adult wardrobes!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!