Even though it was so nice to pare down belongings with the KonMari method, one additional benefit was that I was more clearly able to spot holes. There were four things that I felt like I didn’t have but that would be staples in my closet.
I mostly figured it out as I was going through everything in my closet, item by item, thinking, “Well, I would wear this more if I had…” and I kept saying the same few things. It really came down to three staples, and it’s so simple.
(PS Here is a post with what I consider Wardrobe Staples)
Black + Navy Turtlenecks for Layering
I had a few skirts that definitely “sparked joy,” but I didn’t have a ton of tops to wear with, especially in cold weather. I don’t love tucking in sweaters into skirts and sometimes a button down is too fussy. Plus, I love the look of a high waisted skirt and a tucking in a tee is a great way to accentuate it. I also had a couple of dresses that are sleeveless and I was at a loss for how to style them without wearing a cardigan. The more I thought of it, the more versatile these turtlenecks would be: under dresses, with jeans and a vest, under a sweater, with a blazer, tucked into a skirt… etc!
I’ve been talking about a black cashmere scarf for a while, and I found the most amazing deal on one. Sometimes it pays off to wait to the “end” of the season! (But I know I’m going to get so much use out of it.) What I love about this particular cashmere scarf is that it’s oversized but not a full-on blanket. It’s lightweight, but still super warm.
As I was going through my closet, I was thinking on more than one occasion, “Why don’t I wear this dress more?” And I realized it’s because I don’t have navy heels. I have a lot of summer shoes (nude sandals) that I can wear with my navy dresses, but not a lot of options that I love for the winter. I have a great pair of nude pumps and black pumps…. but no navy! I have three dresses hanging on the clothing rack in my office just waiting for navy pumps.
I’m with you-going through my closet with the KonMari method, I’ve noticed the staples I’ve been lacking. Turtlenecks have been my go-to for pencil skirts this season!
How is the quality of the cashmere in the scarf from Club Monaco? I’ve been looking for one and hope this it is! I planned to purchase from J.Crew but have been really disappointed in the quality of some of their cashmere items this season — I recently purchased cashmere gloves and a cardigan that are surprisingly scratchy. Thanks!
I have this same scarf from last season and it’s amazing quality and super soft 🙂 100% recommend.
Thank you so much for your response, JE! I appreciate it. Going to purchase now
Also, here’s a potential cricut project:
https://www.designmom.com/gorgeous-diy-leather-tassels-easy-cricut/
Cashmere is so good for winter 🙂 I have a feeling that it’ll still be chilly for quite awhile! -Audrey | Brunch at Audrey’s
A turtleneck, skirt, and sweater tights is kind of my winter uniform! It is so cute and cozy. I love the J. Crew turtlenecks you linked! I have a bunch of them, and they have been perfect during this chilly week!
https://premedwearspearls.blogspot.com
xoxo Libby
I have this exact pair of navy heels and they are so comfy! I am on my feet all day for work and still wear them at least twice a week.
-Katie
http://www.orangetoappleblog.com
Love the staples assessment ! I would love to see how you style the turtlenecks! I have a solid black one and solid white one and planned to wear with skirts to work but never really know how to accessorize since necklaces are a bit weird with turtlenecks!?
I love this post! I agree neutral turtlenecks are my hands down favourite staple. I have honestly too many to count. They work great in the fall when its just a bit chilly and are a lifesaver in the dead of winter (hello polar vortex!).
Bianca
https://navyismyneutral-biancab.blogspot.com/
I have a black cashmere Ralph Lauren scarf that was my grandmother’s. It is easily my most-worn accessory in winter! Such a classic piece 🙂
If you happen to be looking for pump recommendations, I have two pairs from Nine West that I purchased probably…6 years ago? I have work both pairs into the ground and they still look amazing. I get compliments on them constantly! https://www.ninewest.com/fifth-pointy-toe-pumps.html?web_style_color_name=4025
I was JUST talking about how I needed a black cashmere scarf, but I didn’t think I’d be able to find a good deal on one. This is perfect!
Great staples to keep! The KonMari method has shown me what I need to add as well as what does not give me joy anymore.
Love the staples! Can I ask what color tights you would wear if you are getting navy pumps to go with navy dresses in the winter? I also have navy dresses that I never find myself wearing once it gets cold out because I have no idea what color tights/shoes to go with them.
Black turtlenecks are definitely a staple piece for me as well!
https://alexagmarsh.blogspot.com