The Only Wardrobe Staples I Actually Wear on Repeat
I used to think I needed a closet full of cool pieces to have good style. But honestly, I felt like I could never put together an outfit with any of them. My wardrobe was full of statement pieces, trendy tops, and things I thought looked good on other people. It was almost imossible to make an outfit that looked put together and resonated with my style.
Once I started paying attention to what I was actually re-wearing, I realized something: the best outfits usually start with a solid basic. The pieces I reach for over and over aren’t flashy. They’re simple, versatile, and just work without trying too hard. So today, I’m sharing the wardrobe staples I actually wear on repeat, not the ones that sound cute in a checklist but the ones I genuinely rely on to make getting dressed easy and effortless.
First Things First: What is a Staple?
To me, a staple is something that:
- You can wear multiple ways
- Goes with 80% of what you already own
- Doesn’t just sit in your closet collecting dust
It should feel like you. Not a trend. Not something you bought because TikTok told you to. Just something you love wearing.
If I had to pick one pair of pants in my closet that I wear the most, it’s 100% the Effortless Pants from Aritzia. I have them in a few colors now because they’ve honestly become my go-to for everything. I love the fact that you can dress them up, or wear them casually.
How I wear them:
- With a basic t-shirt and sneakers for running errands or grabbing coffee
- Dressed up with a nice top and heels for dinner
- With a button-up and loafers for a meeting
They're one of those pieces that make you feel like you have your life together, even if you're running late. I never get tired of styling them.
2. Organic Basics True Boxy Tee
This tee is the shirt I reach for when I have no idea what to wear. It’s soft, breathable, and the fit is oversized without looking sloppy. Organic Basics is one of my favourite brands because their clothing is made with 100% organic cotton and their prices are super affordable.
How I wear it:
- With the Effortless Pants and white sneakers for a comfy cool look
- Tucked into denim shorts with burkenstocks and a crossbody bag
- Half-tucked into a minis skirt with a slick bun and big hoops
It’s one of those pieces that just works with everything. Super great for layering as well.
3. Adidas OG Sambas
These are hands down my most-worn shoes. They go with everything and they’re also super comfy. Whether I’m heading to campus, grabbing coffee, or shooting content, the Sambas are always a solid choice.
I love that you can find them in so many colorways. I love the classic black and white, but if you want something a little more unique, there are neutral and pastel versions that still go with everything but feel a bit more personal.
How I wear them:
- Literally with everything. Jeans, skirts, dresses, trousers, etc. The combinations are endless
They’re classic, but still feel current—and they’ve officially earned their spot as a forever shoe in my rotation.
4. Levi Low Loose Jeans
These are my go-to jeans that I wear multiple times a week. I believe you need a pair of jeans that you LOVE and go with everything. I have been loving lower waisted pants in general and these ones are super flattering with a straight leg, and that vintage look Levi's is known for.
How I wear them:
- With the Organic Basics tee tucked in and Sambas for a casual look
- With a cropped sweater and chunky loafers when it’s slightly cooler
- With an oversized blazer and a sleek bun to dress them up for coffee dates or meetings
What I love about these jeans is how easy they are to style for different moods. Need something super casual? Go with sneakers. Want to elevate? Swap in a pointed flat or ankle boot.
5. Oak + Fort Classic Fit Suiting Blazer
This blazer is one of those pieces that instantly makes you feel more put together. I have the black one, and I honestly reach for it all the time, whether I’m styling a casual outfit or trying to make something a bit more elevated without overdoing it. It has a slightly oversized, relaxed fit, which makes it feel cool instead of corporate.
How I wear it:
- Thrown over the Organic Basics tee and my Levi’s Low Loose jeans with Sambas
- Layered with the Effortless Pants and a slick bun when I need to look polished but still feel comfortable
- With a mini dress and loafers for a dinner out
It’s one of those “grab and go” pieces that works no matter what I’m wearing. If I’m not sure how to finish an outfit, this blazer usually does the trick.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, clothes should actually be worn and not just sit pretty in your closet. Every piece I mentioned here is something I wear on repeat, in different ways, for different moods and moments. If you're building your wardrobe or just want a reset, start with pieces that feel good, go with everything, and make you excited to get dressed.
Want to see how I actually style these wardrobe staples in real life? Come follow me on TikTok @nicolejamielc — I post outfit ideas, styling tips, and what I’m wearing on repeat.