Curated by Tricia Ferrante

Call them basics. Call them your favorites. Call them the core of your capsule wardrobe. These are the closet staples you turn to day after day that can be worn in countless ways.

Like anything, a good foundation is essential. Having a well-edited collection of versatile pieces makes it easier to build outfits. Once you establish your core wardrobe, you can add statement pieces and accessories in different colors to create new looks and carry you through the seasons. (Pairing a burgundy belt or shoe with classic wide-leg denim and a chunky sweater is a perfect look this fall.)  

Below are the workhorses in my closet that I turn to season after season. Remember, your capsule pieces may look different than mine (it's a myth that everyone "must" have a white button-down—a denim or striped version might be more you). So, think about what you love—and consider these pieces classic ideas to help make getting dressed way more fun.

Tips From Your Style Editor

• How you style your basics is up to you.  Rolling or pushing up your sleeves, layering, and accessorizing are all keys to developing YOUR personal style.

• A few great shirts go a long way.  White, denim, and pinstripe button-downs make for classic parts of a core wardrobe. I always either roll or push up my sleeves to give a more relaxed look.  In addition, I generally keep the top two and bottom two buttons undone. Also play around with how your tuck or untuck your shirt. A half-tucked shirt can highlight a belt while still giving you backside coverage.

• Think of jeans and trousers as being interchangeable. Either go with just about any top, sweater, or blazer in my closet. A good rule is when your wearing baggy or wide leg bottoms, keep your tops on the more fitted side; and with slim bottoms wear oversized or loose fitting tops. Cropped pants are a great way to highlight your shoes, whether heels or sneakers.

• Play around with a blazer. Like with basic shirts, I prefer to give a blazer a relaxed look by rolling or pushing up the sleeves.  Play around with pulling out the cuff of your shirt over the sleeve of your blazer or flipping the collar of your shirt up. A blazer adds a finishing touch to any look.

• Accessorize! I never leave the house without my accessories. You can transform just about anything with great jewelry, a scarf, or a belt. A good rule with jewelry is to focus on one area. If you’re layering necklaces, keep your earrings to a simple stud or huggie hoop. When stacking bracelets, skip the necklaces. Always feel free to mix metals. Silver (which we’re seeing more of) and gold go great together.