Do you feel like you’re always buying clothes but have nothing to wear? You look into your closet and can’t come up with an outfit? That’s where a closet must haves and a capsule wardrobe come in. I don’t have a strict capsule wardrobe with very minimal pieces because there are still some trendy or sentimental items I love. However, I do have five wardrobe must haves I really wear year after year.

I’m excited to share these with you to help you build a classic wardrobe and a foundation of clothing you can always mix and match. While I’m going to link the exact items (or as close to as possible since some of these pieces may be older), you don’t have to get the same ones if the budget isn’t there. However, if you’re going to buy these exact pieces, I can promise you they will last you years and won’t have loose threads, start pilling or look like they are really worn. When it comes to clothes, I’d rather spend more money on something of higher quality and wear it for years than constantly have to re-buy something less expensive.

1. Classic Blazer

Whether you work in a traditional office setting or not, I believe you can’t go wrong with a classic blazer. Style it countless ways for work in a variety of settings from smart casual (as seen above) to business formal. I also love it for a casual chic look with distressed jeans, shorts, over a dress. I love it as a layer during summer over a dress when it’s chilly at night or in the cold AC. I own this blazer in both black and brown.

The blazer I have above is made from wool, fully lined and fits me like a glove. I wear size Petite 00. It’s a pricier item, but it truly will last years. There is a reason it’s number one on my list of wardrobe staples I wear year after year. You can see a few ways I’ve styled it in this blog post.

2. Midi Dress

I got this dress postpartum and I’m wondering where it’s been all my life. It is one of the most comfortable dresses I’ve ever worn. It’s stretchy, beautiful, flattering and has pockets. Huge plus for me right now is how it’s nursing and pumping-friendly. You don’t have to get this exact dress, but I definitely recommend this style and it’s available in tons of colors.

My theory here is to get a midi dress you can style casually and also wear with heels for a special occasion. That way you get versatility. I can wear this with heels for bridal or baby showers, casual weddings, date night and most social gatherings. Or style with sneakers or flat sandals for a more laid back vibe.

3. Knit Top

If I had to name my most-worn top, it would easily be this one, so it’s definitely part of my wardrobe must haves. There are plenty of knit tops out there, but what makes this top shine is the material and cut. I love how it hugs the body, but isn’t too tight. This makes it perfect for wearing under blazers and cardigans, tucking into bottoms or wearing on its own.

It’s available in a few colors, but I recommend sticking with classic black or white. You can see it styled a few ways in this blog post, which features some other very versatile pieces.

4. High Rise Jeans

I think everyone needs a pair of jeans in their wardrobe. I love high-rise because it’s flattering and forgiving. I would actually recommend a non-distressed pair, but if you already have that and want to mix it up, these jeans are perfect.

A dark-wash jean can be worn for smart casual and business casual, which gives you much more versatility in your wardrobe. Style with a nice work blouse or a knit top and flats and you’re good to go. I personally prefer jeans with stretch.

5. Chambray Button-Up

Depending on your work environment, you can wear this chambray button-up to work and on the weekends. One reason I particularly love a chambray button-up is that you can wear it on its own, tucked into bottoms or as a layer and tied in the front. Plus, you can tie it around your waist for extra shape. Above, I have it styled over an athletic dress for a casual sporty look. For a cleaner look, I tie a simple knot, then tuck the ends in under the shirt.