fashion is essentially cyclical. Some trends only last a season or two at best while some become mainstream, like skinny jeans. Some classic pieces get updated, which gives them a fresh look and they become covetable again. Others become a trend due to the influence of a high-profile figure. These classics are basically given a makeover every few years or so with embellishments, a different cut or silhouette, or a change in fabric. Then it all becomes new again!

Timeless Investments

The thing is, if you keep wearing baggy shirts and sweaters, and grey and black all the time, then you’ll be bored with your closet quickly. As you grow older, your fashion preferences will also change, and you’ll wonder why the heck did you wear sack-like sweaters every day at eighteen.

Good clothes that fit your shape is a major factor to consider if you really want to change your mindset. Once you have a good capsule wardrobe, you only need to update it every so often with seasonal essentials and occasional statement pieces which can be in the form of accessories. The illustration on the left should sum it up perfectly.

Simple Works Best: Plain T-Shirts & Button-Down Shirts

Often the simplest clothes are the ones that buck the trends. Button-down shirts are always a favourite — whether in a relaxed, boyfriend style, or a simple Oxford version. Those 3-pack tees are budget-friendly, and you can get them in different neutral combos like black, grey, white and navy blue. Pro tip: Check the menswear section, too, because I find that sometimes their fit is better. At Lover beauty, we also carry other coloured versions which should round out your T-shirt options.

With button-downs, you can get them with or without darts, and in the colours and patterns, you want. These pieces are great for rocking an instant smart-casual or preppy style, even with jeans or shorts, plus sneakers or sandals. Invest in a pretty blouse that you can wear for special occasions. It may even be in plain black but the fabric should be outstanding so you only need some choice accessories like a necklace and earrings to make it glamorous.

Hit the Bottom Line: Skirts & Pants

Petites like us look better with knee-length or above-the-knee skirts so make sure these go on your list. A-line skirts and dresses are figure-friendly and work with anything, while a mini skirt is a great and playful option, whether you’re 18 or 38.

I’ll leave the choice of jeans up to you because I’m sure you have a lot. Again, please consider fit AND inseam. There’s nothing more off-putting than seeing jeans that aren’t hemmed properly. Add flat-front pants to your essentials because these are wonderful to have. If you’re going somewhere swanky and don’t want to wear a dress, go for a menswear look, which means you have to wear the right pants. Go for a slim-leg silhouette if it suits your lower body because they’ll hug curves but won’t be too tight. Flat-fronts go with ballet flats, preppy loafers, white sneakers, stiletto pumps.

Finishing Touches: Accessories, Outerwear & Shoes

Add-ons like shoes and accessories round out your outfit. In some instances, the accessory can be your statement piece — like a striking choker to complement an off-shoulder blouse, or saucy red patent heels to draw attention to an all-white ensemble. Using colour contrast is one of the tried-and-tested ways to update your look even if you’re wearing one single colour, and none of your clothes is new.