Have you ever wanted to buy something, but then the thought of potentially having to return it made you think twice—or even worse, not buy it at all? Same. As a fixed shopper (meaning I do less browsing and more straight-to-the-point purchasing), I have deemed certain pieces as ‘never-fails.’ A ‘never-fail’ means that I will very rarely return them. These are the pieces I know will work every time, and I have zero hesitation buying.
It’s a dynamic strategy that I have developed over the years, and fortunately, I have finally perfected it. And trust me, it took some serious trial-and-error, but it was worth it. To understand the pieces that do work, think styles you continuously wear year after year and pieces that can err on the minimalist side, yet can also be dressed up. Buying both seasonal trends and core staples, knowing that they will never be returned, has become a serious shopping art in my life. From trendier pieces like cut-out dresses and split hem pants to evergreen essentials like stackable rings and oversized shirting, I have narrowed it down to the 12 recommended styles that are completely return foolproof.
I’ve learned that cut-outs will always be flattering.
Shop the matching Mollie Knit Midi Skirt ($135). Buying a matching set makes you feel like you got three fresh outfits with just two pieces. Wear the set together when you’re low on time to get ready, and pair the separates with other items when you’re feeling creative. Plus the stretch in knits makes it more likely the items will fit, which translates to les returns.This set’s on-trend ’90s column skirt is definitely calling my name.
This set comes in brown and black too.
Shop the matching Wendy Wavy Ribbed Skirt ($135). Who said your matching set had to be boring?
The texture!
Shop the matching Embroidered Knit Top ($40). If we buy this sweet set, do you think spring will come early?
Stackable rings are pieces that will always add to your wardrobe, therefore there is no point in returning.
Keep in mind: strategic buys don’t have to be boring.
For me, the last three winters I have gravitated to soft leather tops and jackets—they’re on-trend and extremely comfortable.
The perfect example of a piece that can be styled more casual or more glam.
An essential.
If you don’t own these yet, this is your sign.
No matter the occasion, a platform can always work.
May I offer a more comfortable, everyday loafer shoe?
A true evergreen shoe.
This one really has surprised me—it’s the ultimate layering piece that just works.
A part of the strategy is once you know you like a style, start investing in fun colors!
Not all blazers are a strageic buy, but blazer dresses are.
You just can’t go wrong with a pale pink blazer dress.
Whether you’re headed to a lunch meeting or a night out, the oversized, structured clutch has proven to be a great go-to.
