The 5 Pieces in My Closet I Rely on for Every Season

Confession: I used to be a chronic over-shopper. Every season felt like an excuse to buy something new. I’d tell myself, “I need a whole new wardrobe for fall,” and suddenly I’d have 15 trendy pieces that didn’t go together and would be out of style in six months.

Then a few years ago, I hit a point where I just got tired of the clutter. I wanted to get dressed in the morning without thinking too hard. I wanted clothes that worked for every season, every occasion, and most importantly—felt like me.

That’s when I decided to build what I call my “ride-or-die” closet. Five pieces that I can wear year-round, that I actually want to wear, and that always make me feel put together.

Here they are:

1. The Perfect White Tee

It’s not groundbreaking, but finding the one took me years. Mine is slightly cropped, structured but soft, and thick enough to wear without a bra. I wear it under blazers, with jeans, tucked into skirts, you name it. A white tee is the ultimate reset button when I have “nothing to wear.”

2. High-Waisted Straight-Leg Jeans

Skinny jeans had their moment, but a well-fitting straight leg is where it’s at. I own one pair in a medium wash that somehow works with every single shoe: sneakers, boots, heels, even sandals. They’re flattering, timeless, and don’t stretch out by 3 p.m. (crucial).

3. Oversized Blazer

Blazers aren’t just for offices anymore. I throw mine over a graphic tee with biker shorts or dress it up with trousers and heels. It instantly elevates whatever I’m wearing—even if I’m just wearing leggings underneath. Bonus points if it has pockets.

4. Chunky Knit Sweater

I live in mine from October to March, but I’ve also styled it over a sundress on chilly summer nights. A cozy neutral knit feels effortlessly chic and adds texture to an outfit. The key is finding one that’s warm without being bulky.

5. Slip Dress

This is my secret weapon. With sneakers and a denim jacket? Weekend brunch. With a leather jacket and booties? Date night. With a turtleneck layered underneath? Winter wedding. It’s the most versatile piece in my wardrobe.

I’m not saying you have to become a minimalist, but I’ve found that owning less has helped me get dressed more confidently. These five pieces work together, rotate through every season, and have completely changed how I shop (and how I feel about my closet).

Instead of chasing trends, I now ask: Will I want to wear this next year? If the answer isn’t a hard yes, it’s not coming home with me.