My Ultimate Style Essentials

Illustration: Calla O'Malley

Over the past few months I've really tried to work out what I really love when it comes to what I wear. If you've ever read any of my other style posts you will know that I'm pretty minimal with my attire, I've definitely learnt that sometimes it's better to invest that little bit more in my key pieces so that they last more than just one season. So here are my ultimate style essentials that I will always have in my wardrobe.  

Black Skinny Jeans: I've not worn anything else but skinny jeans since I was 15, that is nearly 10 years of hunting around the high street for the best fit. My go to for years was the Topshop Leigh's but lately I've been wearing the Topshop Joni Jeans and I think they might have replaced my beloved Leighs. A good pair of black skinny jeans can see you through all the seasons, they go with absolutely everything  and can be dressed up or down. 

Parka Coat: Especially in the winter I always like to pick up a new parka coat as it's pretty much all I wear from November till March. I went for a navy number this year rather than the traditional khaki colour which is the usual colour for parkas. I was always worried that a parka was sometimes a little too casual but worn with a pair of ankle boots you can really make them look a lot warmer whilst still being lovely and warm throughout winter.  

Striped Breton: Of course something of a striped nature had to be included in this post. My favourite place to buy my bretons recently has been H&M, they last well and are super flattering. I did an entire post on my favourite ways to style stripes if you're looking for some outfit inspiration.  

Trainers: For years I wore ballet flats for 350 days out of the year and never considered myself much of a trainer lover. Between my New Balance and Nike Roshe Runs my ballet flats now gather dust in my wardrobe. They are so easy just to throw on and not have to worry about them becoming uncomfortable throughout the day. I'm currently eyeing up a pair of Adidas Gazelles in grey, oh so pretty. 

Tube Skirt: Maybe the most boring essential but the £4 tube skirts from H&M are one of my ultimate staples. As a lover of a boyfriend style jumper I always like to pair the two together for a really fuss free outfit that can be pretty much worn anywhere. 

Tartan & Oxford Shirts: It's only until recent years that these have become a real staple in my wardrobe. I love the versatility of having a good fitting shirt in my wardrobe as they can be dressed up or down. Uniqlo are one of my favourite places to pick them up as they are really affordable and amazing quality. 

Black dress: My wardrobe is mostly made up of black anyway but little black dresses in particular. Winter or summer I can always find a way to wear one and I think they are an absolute staple in any girls wardrobe. ASOSare a great place to buy from as they have such a huge range of styles that I'm always bound to find something I love.

Leather Jacket: I would be completely lost without my leather jacket,Topshop always carry great affordable options. No matter what I'm wearing I can always put my leather jacket and it will suit the look apart from maybe my leather skirt (double leather? nah). One day I will probably invest in one from All Saints but until now my two year old Topshop one is doing me proud. 

Grey Jumper: 99% of the time I'm wearing black on the bottom so I tend to always go for a grey jumper on the top. I think I've got every style imaginable in my wardrobe as they are such a great staple to have and can be worn alone or on top of a shirt for a more layered look. Zara always have a lovely selection of knitwear available, especially their basic range. 

Ballet Flats: Like I said I used to live in ballet flats and I still like to have a few staple pairs in my wardrobe. I just don't think you can go wrong with having a nice pair of ballet flats to go for and as I'm not much a heel wearer they are great for smartening up an outfit too. Topshop are my go to store when I'm in need of a new pair as they're great quality.  

What are your style essentials?

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