January 21, 2015

currently coveting: the new classics.

currently coveting

every magazine and website under the sun will tell you the “10 things every woman should have in their closet” or “10 items to own by the time you’re 30,” some of which i would agree with (my list would include a white blazer, a black blazer, a pair of jeans that you feel great in—the leg opening is up to you—a white shirt, a pair of slim black pants, a pair of knee high boots, and a cashmere sweater in a neutral like grey or cream). as i’ve gotten older though, i’ve noticed some new classics that i’ve been turning to again and again that look great whether you’re 23 or 73.

first off, an army green parka, with or without a hood and/or fur trim. you can go the bomber route (like the j.crew one) or a true anorak (with a drawstring at the waist). if you’re on a budget, you can find great ones at a local army/navy store (my high school one was from i. goldberg), gap, or zara (the long, fur hooded one above is under $100) or splurge on one from burberry, rag & bone or canada goose.

second, a pair of leather or faux leather pants. i have the helmut lang pants and a pair of vince leather leggings (both found on sale), but again, faux versions can be found from places like free people, zara, and h&m. if you’re nervous about going full on (faux) leather, look for ones with a ponte back, like these from banana republic.

finally, some retro-ish sneakers, preferably high-tops. back in the day, i was all about a pair of black vans or chuck taylors, and both are still stylish today. nike has gotten into the mix with their blazer high-tops (i love my pair that i dress up and down) and i’m loving the new color and leather combos, like snakeskin. depending on your style, you can go more neutral or bolder, even colorblocking.

do you have any or all of these in your closet? do you consider them classics or are there other things that are classic to you?

1. j. crew jacket, j brand leather jeans, vans crackled suede sneakers / 2. topshop jacket, helmut lang leather pants, converse chuck taylor hi-tops / 3. zara jacket, warehouse faux leather leggings, nike blazer sneakers