As fashion editors, identifying trends and editing the market to narrow down the most noteworthy trends is a critical part of our jobs. And while we certainly enjoy both discovering the latest trends (and then wearing ourselves), we’re also into anti-trends. By this, we mean those more timeless items that can still be forward and modern, but have longevity given their more classic nature.
Below you’ll learn more about the modern classics a few of the Who What Wear editors deem as true wardrobe staples and will never stop wearing. You’ll notice that the pieces in question aren’t overly trendy and certainly fall into that essential category. If you want to freshen up your own wardrobe by mixing in a new piece or two, there are also shopping recommendations sprinkled throughout.
“Sure, they may be having a moment right now, but oversized button-down shirts are a closet essential that simply won’t be leaving my possession anytime soon (or ever). I might change up the way I’m wearing mine from season to season—in the winter I layer them over turtlenecks and in the summer I wear them open as a beach coverup—but ultimately they’re too classic and versatile to ever tire of.” — Anna LaPlaca, editor
“For the past few weeks, I’ve been living in Paris and ever since I got here, I don’t go a day without slipping into an oversized blazer before I head out the door. It’s the wardrobe staple that I simply couldn’t live without. Whether I’m wearing a T-shirt and jeans or heading to a fancy dinner, I know that my favorite blazer will pair well with whatever I’m wearing. Plus, I feel like the oversized fit is a modern spin on an all-time classic.” — Sierra Mayhew, associate fashion editor
“Denim shorts have always been a staple in my spring and summer wardrobe (as evidenced by the stack of them in my closet). I’m particularly fond of the longer, looser Agolde styles, as my two-inch inseam days are over. They always look polished.” — Ally Payer, senior fashion editor
“I’ll never stop wearing a striped tee. It’s one of my favorite simple pieces that instantly makes a cute look when paired with virtually any bottoms. I also love that there are so many cuts and styles available, so it’s easy to find one that caters to your aesthetic. Everyone from the French-girl to the street style lover can appreciate a striped tee.” — ChiChi Offor, associate shopping editor
“Maxi skirts may be trendy for some, but as a modest dresser, they’ve always been a classic staple to me. There’s just something about a long black wool skirt or slip skirt that polishes up an outfit so perfectly. It’s so easy to dress them up or down as well.” — Yusra Siddiqui, associate editor
“I used to wear skinny jeans and slim trousers a lot, but I’ve gone for looser cuts over the last few years. And I honestly don’t foresee myself giving up this look for a long, long time. They’re so easy and effortlessly chic. Plus, you can dress them up or down.” — Bobby Schuessler, shopping director
“While there are so many staple pieces, I swear by, if I’m being sincere, there is only one I live in 90% of the time: leather trenches. What makes them the superior staple, in my mind, is how the silhouette is super versatile—in all the different variations of the style you can buy and in all the various ways you can style it. It’s the type of piece that you can wear on a crisp spring day or a cold enough summer night, and even in the fall and winter too.” — Jasmine Fox-Suliaman, editor
