THE EDIT:
From Jacquemus and Palm Angels to Prada and Versace, these are the wardrobe essentials you need in 2023.
Staple pieces, style stalwarts and timeless classics: the power of your wardrobe essentials cannot be underestimated. And while the idea is nothing new, thanks to the emergence of the quiet luxury trend, (which currently has 200.3 million views on TikTok), we have a newfound appreciation for the humble essentials that make up the backbone of our wardrobe.
Think box-fresh sneakers, true blue jeans and classic blazers. Signature polo shirts, easy-wearing black bags and slick sunglasses. Wondering where to start? We’ve got you covered with our ultimate edit of wardrobe essentials. Think the heavy-duty, hard-wearing pieces that you’re destined to wear on repeat all season long. From Jacquemus and Palm Angels to Prada and Versace, these are the wardrobe essentials you need in 2023.
In 2023, we’re saying goodbye to boring blazers and hello to fresh, new luxury takes on tailoring. Jacqeumus’ La Veste Blazer is a firm favourite. All-black, oversized and endlessly easy to style, it’s the ultimate staple piece. Fear Of God’s offering comes in the form of the California Blazer; a bulky fit in a buttery shade of neutral beige, it’ll pair just as well with jeans and a white tee as it will with tailored trousers. And as for Amiri? They’ve gone big with a Pinstripe Blazer that comes complete with faded-effect colouring.
The ultimate smart casual option? Allow us to introduce you to the elevated overshirt. Heavier than a button-down, lighter than a jacket, an overshirt works great as a stand-alone piece and as an extra layer when the weather starts to cool. Our key picks this season? Jil Sander’s Button Shirt for one. In an easy-wearing shade of neutral white, it’ll instantly dress up any outfit and is guaranteed to pair with every item in your wardrobe. Prada’s Nylon shirt offers cult appeal with a ‘90s vibe and iconic emblem, while the Palm Angel’s Track Shirt gives the classic overshirt the track star treatment thanks to the sports club cool detailing.
A sleek, simple polo shirt is a must-have in your wardrobe rotation. The kind of piece you’ll wear over and over, this season we’re opting for oversized iterations in low-key, neutral shades. Jacquemus’ Le Polo is a firm favourite. Soft and slouchy, it’ll see you well into the winter months. Tom Ford has delivered an endlessly wearable iteration thanks to its grey Long Sleeve Polo, while Acne Studios has crafted a refreshed take on the classic with the short-sleeved, pale lilac Bubble Polo.
Few things in life (or fashion for that matter) are certain. But one thing is: blue jeans will always look good. In 2023, we’re styling things on the slouchier side. Think large and loose. Top of our list this season? Prada’s 1950 Jeans. Ft. a vintage wash and straight leg fit, they’re a stone-cold classic. Bottega Veneta’s bleached jeans in soft, baby blue are a fun, fresh option, while Gucci is making the case for elevated essentials c/o their Jumbo Jeans that are decked out in the brand's signature monogram.
A pair of box-fresh white sneakers will always be a good idea. And these are the pairs to add to your rotation ASAP. Streetwear gospel, Off-White’s Out Of Office Trainers are a real cult classic and this pair in icy white are a firm favourite. In a classic plimsole silhouette, Jil Sander’s Low Sneakers are pared-back and minimal. While Palm Angels have combined their streetwear credentials with old-school Varsity cool by way of the University Original Trainers.
First and foremost, these boots were made for walking. But they were also made for serving looks. Case in point? Valentino Garavani’s Rockstud Boots. For AW23, the brand has given the signature Chelsea Boot the stud treatment, decking out the classic boot with statement-making black stud detailing. Stay on theme with Prada’s cult Biker Boots. Sat on a chunky Monolith sole, these boots go big on motocore energy thanks to the oversized silhouette and heavy-metal detailing. And if you’re looking for a minimal touch, Jil Sander has you covered with their Ankle Boots.
The cornerstone of any good wardrobe? A slick black bag. Designed to a) tout your essentials and b) elevate your outfit, the importance of copping an It bag can’t be underestimated. Top of our list? Prada’s Tote bag. In slick glossy leather, it’s big enough to fit everything you need for your day-to-day and understated enough to pair with every fit. Searching for something different? Take your style cues from the streetwear set and opt for Off-White’s signature Crossbody Camera Bag. And if you’re looking for an elevated touch, Bottega Veneta’s Carrier Bag in their classic intrecciato weave will do the trick.
Slick shades? Yes please. A pair of hot specs are a must in your wardrobe all year round (and, all day and all night for that matter). As for your key picks for 2023? Versace’s Medusa Sunglasses should be top of your list. A firm favourite of the late (and great) Notorious B.I.G. they’re a must-have, and this tortoiseshell pair is next level. If you’re looking to embody that sun-soaked, ‘70s L.A. look, then Tom Ford’s classic aviators are the way to go. In the market for something simple? Saint Laurent’s slick black circle shades will do the trick.