Build the perfect wardrobe base with these sartorial essentials

Before you get carried away with trend-driven, seasonal fashion, first ensure that your wardrobe has the right foundations. A curated collection of simplified pieces, from a little black dress to the perfect collared shirt, these are the essentials you need to set you up in style.

Little Black Dress
The ‘LBD’ has long been a mainstay of the well-curated wardrobe. As universally flattering as it is versatile, this simple, elegant piece will be your failsafe for any occasion, always able to offer subtle sophistication for very little effort.


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From Left: Gucci Towards the Sun Collection, Helen Cherry Maggie dress from Workshop.

Light Overcoat
Perfect for transitioning into warmer days, this particular style of outerwear is favoured for its ability to layer. Destined to remain with you for many seasons, the light overcoat is the easiest way to make an outfit feel complete. 

Left: Acne Studios Cotton trench coat from Workshop.

Boyfriend Blazer
Oversized is the name of the game here, with a generous blazer that takes cues from your boyfriend’s wardrobe. Putting proportion at the forefront and promising to elevate any casual look, this style has long been favoured for its timeless, sophisticated look.

Right: Gentleman blazer from Mahsa.

Loafers
Arguably the most versatile shoe in any wardrobe, the trusty loafer is a style to which you can return in any circumstance or season. Marrying sleek refinement with study style, this staple shoe should always be on hand (or should we say, foot). 

From the top: Connelly Flat Loafer from Louis Vuitton. Women’s loafer with Interlocking G from Gucci. Bryer Loafer Flat from Jimmy Choo.

Transeasonal Knit
A versatile knit is essential for spring dressing, ensuring any look will be able to stand up to the season’s changeable weather. Our advice? Opt for something in high-quality yarn (neither too heavy, nor too light) and a style that allows you to layer. 

From left: Francesca Sweater from Dadelszen. Wool cashmere sweater from Gucci.

Button-Down Shirt
Arguably the most crucial piece of any curated wardrobe is the classic button-down shirt. Simple, timeless and flattering on all, this tailored piece is the easiest way to make your day-to-day outfits feel polished. And while there are many iterations of the button-down out there, we suggest choosing one in a light, neutral tone.

Left: Nil Lotan Yorke shirt from Workshop.

Tailored Trousers
Nothing steps up a simple look like a pair of beautifully tailored, perfectly fitting trousers. Whether worn with a plain white T-shirt or with something a little more formal, tailored trousers will make anyone look (and feel) put together. 

Right: Flared Pants from Dior.

White Singlet
Having emerged from the Fall 2022 season as its hero piece, the plain white singlet is finally getting the recognition it deserves. Set to be one of the hardest-working basics in your wardrobe, a well-cut, high-quality white singlet will give you an air of cool, 90s-supermodel nonchalance. 

From left: Miles Tank from Camilla and Marc. Bottega Veneta Fall 22.

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