The 3 Wardrobe Essentials I’m Investing in This Year

There’s something about a new calendar year that always invites a little reflection, a little introspection, and, if you’re a fashion lover, a little desire for a wardrobe refresh. It’s a perfect time to take stock of your collection and get real about what you’re loving, what you’re regularly wearing, and what might need to be donated (or at least demoted to the back of the closet).

It’s also a great time to shop for wardrobe staples, to make sure your 2026 style vision has a strong foundation to build on.

Style is, at its core, inherently personal, so what’s considered a “staple” isn’t going to be exactly the same for everyone. But, from my years of working in the fashion industry and seeing the ebbs and flows of trends, I know that there are some pieces—like a good pair of straight leg jeans—that pretty much every closet can benefit from having.

If I was looking to add just a few key workhorse items to my closet in 2026, these would be my recommendations.

A long tie-waist coat

This is one of those rare classics that also is trending—aka the best of both worlds when it comes to shopping. You’ll be able to wear this now and look right on trend, but it won’t look dowdy or dated even when it’s no longer dominating your algorithm.

Right now this silhouette is being referred to by a variety of names, from bathrobe coats to longline wraps, but the bottom line is that you want a coat that goes pretty much all the way to the bottom of your hemline. This brown suede twist on the classic trench is a great example of a piece I can wear now (with some warm layers underneath) and pull out again every fall. Depending on your vibe and climate, you might want a thicker material, like wool or faux fur, or lighter, or a lighter fabric, like, satin or sheer structured organza. You can even go for a full-on animal print version—a personal favorite of mine.

I also always love recommending long line jackets because not only are they generally timeless, they’re an outfit-maker: You can throw them over pretty much anything and instantly look more pulled together. It’s the perfect lazy-day hack for these cold midwinter months, when crafting a whole look for only a few hours of daylight doesn't feel like top priority. I did just that, throwing this coat on top of a jeans-and-tee combo, letting the trench and accessories shine. (Not hard with these great Versace tortoise chain detail sunnies and these fantastic shearling-lined clogs.)

High-waisted trousers

If you don’t have a great pair of wide-leg trousers in your wardrobe yet, 2026 is your year to get one. I know it might not feel like the most exciting purchase, but I can personally attest that it can be a real game-changer—and not just for business casual vibes. I personally love playing against type when it comes to trousers, pairing them with boho sweaters, sexy little tops, and sporty layers. For this look, I styled my go-to pair of Reformation trousers with a minimal H&M cropped tee, bright pink Nikes, and my metallic purple Telfar tote.

When shopping for trousers, fit is of utmost importance, so don’t feel weird about needing to try on a few pairs to find the right one. A little fashion insider tip that makes that latter one an easier pill to swallow: Sizes are a lot less standardized than most people assume (there isn’t even an official standard guideline in women’s fashion!), and a lot of it comes down to the measurements of the fit models brands hired. It’s very common to be one size at one brand and a different one at another. Focus on how it looks and feels on your body, not the number on the tag. And if you’re ordering from a new-to-you brand, I always advise going a size up: A slouchy pair of wide leg trousers looks cool, fashion-forward, and purposeful—but a too-tight pair just looks… too tight.

Silky slip dress

This is another one of those wardrobe staples that you might not think you need, but ends up becoming a go-to. A well-made slip dress can stand alone or be layered with ease, and can be styled to fit pretty much any aesthetic, from minimal to boho.

Unconvinced? Just consider it in the context of some of the year’s big trends. Sporty chic? Add a nylon windbreaker, colorful sneakers, and tall ribbed socks. Poetcore? Layer it under a sweater vest and oversized button-down, and finish the look with patterned tights and brogues. The boudoir aesthetic? A lacy bra peeking out underneath will do the trick—as will a pair of lace-trimmed satin pants, for a luxe pajama vibe.

For this look, I paired this lightweight silk slip dress from Quince with an oversized semi-sheer button down from inclusive indie label Pinecone Row. To make it work for chilly January temperatures, I wore a longtime favorite Baacal plaid car coat (similar) on top, and added weather-resistant lug-sole boots. (This pair comes in multiple calf widths, too!) Altogether, this look was cool and comfortable, and not at all precious—silk doesn’t always have to be dainty, after all!