YouLookFab Forum » Topic: How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:10:50 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Helen247 on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to/page/2#post-2404076 Wed, 21 Jan 2026 03:21:57 +0000 Helen247 2404076@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Lisa, you mentioned you are planning to buy a sewing machine and make some clothes. i made some beautiful clothes, wish I had some photos, but my visual memory is fine. This might be an opportunity to create what you like, modify to suit your body, and have something unique. I think we get stuck sometimes in this bubble of information overload. I feel it sometimes LJP on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to/page/2#post-2403920 Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:15:33 +0000 LJP 2403920@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sorry to post and run. Crazy busy at work today - everyone decides to join a gym in January . Well , for a ( as is typical for me) poorly articulated post, there are some really great insights here.  And thank you to Jonesy and Sarah for rewriting what I really meant to say ;).  I didn't want to get into the weeds on a basics vs essentials discussion, and used the word *classic* to refer to those items that are designed in such as way as to stand the test of time.  Thanks for the reminder, Penny. Irina - good questions, and I often wish my wardrobe would disappear overnight so that I could start again ;). But in all seriousness, that's a good benchmark to figure out what to focus on. carol  , Debbie - yes, good suggestions goldenpig - it will definitely mean looking at different brands/stores.....a decision has to be made as to how to do that efficiently though. bijou - I agree that elevating what I consider a classic with fashion details is the way to go.   Dee , slim cat , Lise, kkards, bonnie , echo - you're all absolutely right, thank you. Suz - the focus on colour/neutrals rather than style is interesting, and I think you've hit on something . (I'm not even thinking about my work wardrobe here although it's one big neutral, lol)   Sal - and now I need/want a collarless blouse of some sort. Brilliant idea. Chris - I appreciate the idea of going to a store, but that alone is a problem - I think you have the same issue.    There just aren't the stores here anymore - like for many of us not living in a huge city- and I don't have the luxury of time to  spend trying a lot of stuff on. I'm lucky if I can get into a store maybe once every couple of months.  But I can maybe make that work with some on-line ordering .....we'll see. Helena - I'm so tired I don't even know *what* my goal is anymore. Hahaha.   I think it's more to do with having pieces with more longevity, thus falling into the "classics" category.  And it's a trick to find versions of those pieces that aren't as strict and conservative ... SarahD8 - you have made some incredibly insightful suggestions , and I love them.  And I'm actually excited to find another person who understands where I'm at!  I hate jean jackets!  Ah, this is so great, and using my best versions of the dreaded jean jacket or whatever the offending piece is to sit in as substitutes is a great idea when looking at photos of outfits for inspiration.  Love this .  And I have no idea what I meant by versatility and I admit it.  I'm exhausted, lol.   Janet - you do this very well, and actually have the pieces I think I'm missing.....although you do wear v neck sweaters, long sleeved t's for layering etc.  You probably have the perfect mix! RobinF - thanks for understanding ,and I think I do need to branch out and not turn to the same versions of the statement-ish pieces I buy over and over again.   unfrumped - we always see eye to eye :). Maybe the idea of classic pieces is not what I should be focusing on .  I am not a big fan of the forum discussions of basics vs essentials .....the minutae loses me early into the discussion.  However......maybe that inattention is my real issue. Angie - I am VERY happy to read that not every wardrobe needs classics.    I confess to not really paying attention to the essentials vs basics conversations but I suppose I should .  Sigh. Identifying essentials is something I've never sat down to do, and again - sounds like I need to. Thank you . ValMN - I do know how to sew, and pretty well if I do say so myself ;). I do not currently own a sewing machine ( I sold my serger and gave away my sewing machine 7 yrs ago when I moved to a condo, and I do regret it ) , but that's something I hope to address this year.  I already have a little list of pieces I want to make and thanks for the Blackbird recommendation.  I've been wondering where one buys good fabric now! judy - glad you understand, and yes you are right.  And to me, belly is as bad as tummy ;). Why must we infantilize our body parts?  But abdomen sounds gym-ish.   cat2 - yes, I the French girl thing gets me every time, although I should know better.   Carla - probably. mixing up essentials and basics, but see above for my apparent disregard for both terms ;).  And yes, Yin as opposed to Yang, I think . You can see how I like to just see something rather than mentally label it.  Jonesy, thank you for the intellectual version of my midnight rambling.  The mystery jeans actually DID fill a wardrobe gap and I didn't realize it.  And yes, now that I'm on a roll, let's go nuts and get more classic stuff.  In all seriousness, I agree that wovens do a better job of hiding a body than do knits, which is why I don't wear a lot of t-shirts.  I have 2 woven linen  tops that mimic a t-shirt in cut, and LOVE them.  TWP is a fabulous line that I wish I could buy from. Sadly, they are out of my price range in Cdn dollars and actually don't even ship to Canada although they'll ship to every other random country in the world.  . These are exactly the kind of clothes I love .   DonnaF on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to/page/2#post-2403919 Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:11:53 +0000 DonnaF 2403919@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ha, ha, ha. I didn't realize that my style, or rather what I own and don't necessarily wear all that much is so classic. That being said, your Classic List is so, so, so NOT Lisa. I echo what everyone else is saying: Find YOUR essentials. I recognize that you may want to burn the whole pile the minute you retire, but maybe your work clothes can give you insight into your Essentials, at least in terms of cut, style, and fabric? FWIW, I think of you in terms of solids, fabrics that drape, v-neck or v-neck adjacent styles. Your athletic (golf?) wardrobe may need to be completely separate. I can also see you changing up your footwear fairly frequently. Jaime on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to/page/2#post-2403910 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 23:53:28 +0000 Jaime 2403910@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Don't have to! Well you have already gotten so much good advice I will just commiserate. I have a hard time with button up tops - especially the stiff ones as they never fit right. I don't wear a trench or almost any belted coat. Short sleeve  t-shirts are not stand alone items for me. I will happily wear certain classic style sweaters and jeans but it depends on the fit on me, not their status as classics. I have essentials - jeans and shoes that I can rely upon, for example, but will push back a bit on the lasting forever goal. The better they are, the more you'll wear them, the shorter their lifetime. And to quote a long ago style blog - you aren't dead yet.  lyn67 on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to/page/2#post-2403902 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 23:34:29 +0000 lyn67 2403902@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Do you really want the classic items Lisa?? Why and what for? Think you rather need essentials your own way-these don't have to be classic style!  So you can decide on your own essentials as well. Here are my examples. I am NOT a jeans girl. Think in the past 2 decades I didn't wear blue jeans at all as I found them too casual for my style. But I have and love my white or cream jeans -and learned from Angie to not shy away wearing for winters, too. (You're all 6th year in the barrel trend and I still wear BF or wide legs because barrels look terrible on me.) Agree with Sal about a linen  rather than a poplin button up. I had the same problem. I hate button downs-the crisp classic collared ironed fitted or oversized and  poplin ones. I rather have them looser hi-low fit or a  shorter length with an inserted tie at the hem, with sleeves to button up(or cuffed) to  3/4 length, no collar (or mandarin only) but a notch V-neck and made of linen and I wear them to my midi skirts-and not the pants! (I also have short hair and fear the andogynous look). The kinds Jonesy put up for inspiration are also great.  My tees/tops generaly  fit looser (not clingy) and have exclusively a deeper round, V, or boat neck now and have prefferable a thicker weight. But have some boxy tops, too for summer. When needed flat high wamp shoes for spring and fall I gave up on  oxfords (laces feel too masculine for me). So I choose loafers instead.  I don't do doc Martens anymore for exactly  that reason,  I do rather Chelsea/western boots. But I like a lug sole as I preffer substantial looking shoes for my frame so many of my  shoes have a lug sole.  And also,  I never had a sould sucking beige trench in my life! I needed them for looking good over office wear but I had them in black, light blue, deep pumpkin and whiskey and prefferable coated (with a bit of shine).    Echo on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403897 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:50:23 +0000 Echo 2403897@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have to agree with the majority in that I don't do "classics" much, either; they just don't work for me. However, if you feel pulled in the direction of trying some, there are variations on the styles that may work. For example, I don't wear crew neck cardigans, but V neck cardis tend to work for me; turtlenecks are VERY unflattering for me, but mock necks or just higher crew necks fill that spot; I used to think skirts weren't for me at all until I found flouncy skirts, or skirts with more volume than pencils; pleats are often unflattering, but variations on paper bag type waists can give a similar look; normal button-downs are terrible on me, but highly stylized ones with asymmetrical hems or button structures can sometimes work (though this is far more hit or miss); many standard tees don't work for me, but there are some that are built with more volume through the bust and shoulders without being boxy all the way down, and sometimes those work. Otherwise, if you don't feel you're MISSING anything, then I agree with everyone else in that your wardrobe basics don't need to the be the same items that are on so many "lists." You need to go with what works for you and what feels fab to you, not arbitrary lists of what "everyone" needs. unfrumped on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403896 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:42:41 +0000 unfrumped 2403896@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I like the variety Jonesy posted. And as recall, you wear a V- neck very well, so Sal’s example shirt/ blouse is good. So again, “ woven button front shirt” can apply to a lot of different items, none being the “ classic” tailored, collared shirt. And the lengths are negotiable- I have a plaid flannel shirt that is just a tad shorter than my usual shirts, getting a ton of wear, partly because tops overall are shorter these past few seasons, but mostly it works better with fuller cut pants. Yet the very boxy short button-fronts are too short on me— they SHOULD work but don’t , because of my shape, the lack of drape. Suz on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403888 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:12:33 +0000 Suz 2403888@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ooh, I love those shirts, Jonesy! And Lisa, your summer BR shirts had a similar vibe to a few of those. Jonesy on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403877 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 21:52:35 +0000 Jonesy 2403877@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ It sounds like you have this longstanding fear of these items, but you've sort of fallen in love with the mystery jeans--you are wearing them a lot and they perhaps fill a wardrobe gap. So now that you've dipped your toe in, you are thinking you might want to try some more pieces in a similar vein? But don't know where to start or what items might be the most versatile/have the most longevity, and you don't want to feel plain or too masculine? Let me talk up the button down in its current iteration: Yes, button downs for women used to typically be tailored and have these darts that made them narrow and fitted. And those were tough if you had a chest, big shoulders, a belly, etc. etc. And they tended to feel constricting, at least to me--they seemed designed for work, underneath a blazer, so it could feel difficult to integrate them into a more casual lifestyle. But many button downs today are cut quite loose and--dare I say it?--oversized :). They are designed to be more casual, and to skim over chests and bellies. Their woven-ness makes them perfect for that task! (Way superior to knits or t-shirts, IMO.) I agree with others who suggested window shopping or trying on a bunch of different options, with bottoms (jeans, whatever) you already own, just to see what feels right and works with the rest of you. For example, I have big, curly, sort of fluffy hair that goes below my shoulders, and a long neck, so I like a strict button down with a collar because it juxtaposes nicely with my hair. If your hair is more "strict" or structured, and you fear looking more masculine or plain, then maybe a less structured button down in a drapey fabric, and/or with a banded collar, could be a nice fit. Here are some examples from the brand TWP, across a range of styles (and two different seasonal collections). I find them to be so comfortable and versatile for layering and everything, really. Heck, I even garden in button downs :). ETA: Of course, you don't have to wear any of these items on your list that you've avoided for years. But if you want to try, because the jeans have been an unexpected hit, or you feel like your wardrobe is just missing some key elements, or you're thinking a few classic pieces might work well at this stage of your life, then yes! Go for it! Carla on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403871 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 21:03:05 +0000 Carla 2403871@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I wonder if you are getting ‘classics’ mixed up with ‘wardrobe essentials’, or possibly ‘prep’ style?  Button downs work for me, but blouses don’t.  Both are classic.  High waisted jeans work for me, but low waisted denim doesn’t.  Both are classic.  Blazers are classic, but so are denim ‘trucker’ jackets, and Channel toppers.   <div><div> </div><div>Irina’s - question: What would you buy/replace if your current wardrobe disappeared is a good one.  I’d go for dark blue 501’s, a pair of black ankle cuffed sweatpants, tan and black shorts, fluid fit sweaters in black and red, a long sleeved navy and striped t-shirt and a novelty t, a medium blue chambray button down, a 3/4 trench in tan or red, a 3/4 puffer in ‘not black’, low profile sneakers, combat boots or Chelsea boots.  </div></div><div> </div><div>FWIW, from your posted OOTD - I’d say you no’re a MODERN classic dresser - with emphasis on the MODERN.  Denim (a classic) but in an on trend silouhette - loafers but with an on-trend lug heel…that sort of thing.  </div><div> </div><div>I suspect Yin stuff might be more your vibe than Yang stuff, or maybe it’s the other way around? LOL!</div> cat2 on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403848 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 18:30:58 +0000 cat2 2403848@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great question! Too often the solution offered by bloggers is to buy French girl classics. I am not a petite brunette who finds maritime touches charming. My essentials are black pants, cotton poplin pop-over tops, jeans skirts and three quarter sleeve boatneck tees. Lila P is my current tee source. Everything else is from the usual mix of brands I shop. Nothing is preppy. judy on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403832 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 17:09:43 +0000 judy 2403832@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think we might be talking about the idea of an item of clothing vs the reality of the wearing of the clothing.  Sounds like you have an idea you should own and wear some of these pieces you've mentioned, but don't like the way they feel on you.  Or the way they look or hang on you.  Me too!   Some examples that come to mind: I've never met a button down I loved wearing, not really.  Long coats only work for me on outdoor walks, can't stand sitting on them in the car, though I do on occasion.  I don't enjoy sweaters that are too fitted.  I have two oversized turtlenecks and they have to be just the right amount of loose yet warm around my neck.  I think this is called Kinesthetic dressing, or something like that, when one is very aware of the sensory feel of clothing.  You've gotten good suggestions above for how to sort it, both in the idea realm and in the practical.  For me, getting reliable essentials has just taken a bit more time and energy to sort.  But not for long...then it changes as my body and my preferences do, so it can sometimes feel like a revolving door.   p.s. I use the word belly instead of tummy :)    Bonnie on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403830 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 16:26:32 +0000 Bonnie 2403830@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ When you retire you will be leading a very different life so think about what you need for the different activities you will be doing. In my case, I need casual clothes for homelife, casual dressy for social gatherings, dressy clothes for concerts, sportswear for daily walks and sporty vacations, and a few special outfits that work for events not covered by the above categories. To me, Classics are a kind of style like Boho, or Romantic, or Sporty.  Val MN on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403828 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:58:19 +0000 Val MN 2403828@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <div>Lisa, I hear you on the difficulty of finding a good fit in certain seemingly simple and "classic" items. Mass-produced clothing doesn't work equally well for all bodies. May I humbly recommend sewing? If I remember correctly, you have the skill set but it's not your preferred hobby, so feel free to disregard the suggestion. Adjusting sewing patterns to fit is a whole other learning curve, too. </div><div> </div><div>Some examples of "classic" items from your list that work for me as wardrobe essentials if and only if I sew them myself to fit me:</div> <ul> <li>long sleeve fitted t-shirts</li> <li>short sleeve t-shirts</li> <li>turtlenecks</li> <li>skirts</li> </ul> I particularly recommend <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.blackbirdfabrics.com">Blackbird Fabrics</a> as a Canadian source for garment fabrics and modern sewing patterns.  Angie on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403814 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:03:14 +0000 Angie 2403814@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My 2 cents:  NOT every wardrobe needs classics. Every wardrobe needs wardrobe essentials. Wardrobes without the right essentials do not function as well as they could. People who think that they don't have wardrobe essentials and have fully functioning wardrobes - DO have essentials. I guarantee it!  They are simply not identifying them as such. They are intuitively buying, incorporating and wearing wardrobe essentials without knowing it.  Wardrobe essentials are NOT necessarily classics. They can be, but don't need to be. They can be on trend items. My jeans are trendy, and many of them are essentials. At the moment my wide legs and barrels are essentials. Trendy as all heck!  Wardrobe basics are neither essentials nor classics. People tend to mix up the three.  Your wardrobe essentials are PERSONAL. Everyone has a different set of essentials. They also change over time. And everything Suz said!  unfrumped on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403813 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:57:12 +0000 unfrumped 2403813@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great question! And I agree with going back to definitions and just changing the words but understanding the “ function” in the wardrobe. Angie had a number of posts over the years, using her own terms, but wardrobe Essentials might be it. Sometimes “ core pieces”. Things you can’t get dressed without ( Angie I think does not use Basics for that, but some wardrobe/style writers do—so again, noodle on the actual category of items and kinda decide what nomenclature you want to use). “ Classic” really has not much to do with it if that word is used to mean only tailored items and very limited types of styles and fits. Wardrobe Workhorses! Can be in all style types but function similarly for the individual. I like the term “ enduring style” for ME — what are futs and styles of garments that I have loved consistently over many years even if the style gets tweaked a bit. But there are also styles I no longer wear - pencil skirts used to be an essential, as I wore them “ de- bombshelled”, (haha), but I can no longer get the right fit and look so have moved on. These items would have a big degree of versatility— but in YOUR style preferences. I think in general these would be neutral or near- neutrals but mainly because of having pieces that work together. So a better concept might be, “ colors that you like wearing together “ or mixing and matching. Angie (excuse me Angie for referencing you!) has lots more colors in her wardrobe that function together for her than I do, so again, color choices are personal. The styles might be “ simpler” in some way just so that one can decide how much wow! or dressiness or other effects to build into the outfit with other pieces and accessories, or because one can combine that with something “ trendy”. Kind of what the 70/30 “ rule” (just an example- no rules, just right!) is trying to get at. So I love your question ! I agree would do the “ pull out your clothes that you love putting on “ thing and see what are their characteristics. But see if they do or don’t work in some way and why. Maybe perfect style but the color doesn’t work with enough other pieces. Maybe good style but not the right fit in that size or brand ( I do that because I don’t have much IRL stores to try on stuff and am overwhelmed by buy/ return online- kissing ing too many Retail Frogs to find “ the one”. Maybe favorite color but bought for the color and it’s not a style or fit you really will wear ( I do that). Well, that is a lot of rambling, but I also feel inspired to take a go at more style curation myself. RobinF on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403810 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:30:59 +0000 RobinF 2403810@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I know exactly how you feel and would echo much of the advice you have been given. I do wear a lot of what you listed but also respond with a hard no to many of them. Finding your own version is a help. I tried many button downs but they never took until I tried a soft, over-sized one from Target (so quite inexpensive) and loved it and now have it in several colors. But I still can't wear a more fitted, crisp one. Same with a trench. I felt like a child playing dress up until I found one with a hood and cinch waist that felt more like me. But there are still many of those items that I won't wear (turtlenecks for instance - can't stand them on my neck). But I don't think it is necessary to have any of these unless you want to. Janet on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403809 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:13:56 +0000 Janet 2403809@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I’m nodding along with slim cat and Suz — I wouldn’t confuse essentials with classics. I have some essentials like fairly classic jeans, crew neck tees, and cashmere sweaters, that may read as classics, but in truth the backbone of my wardrobe is less the classic styles as it is the things that are most useful and versatile *for me* — wide leg pants, bootcut jeans, low heeled booties, slightly cropped sweaters… The basic item itself (denim, boots, knitwear) can be more classic in style, but I prefer ones with a slight twist towards my personal preference. The ones that really fit the bill tend to stay in my wardrobe for years and lend themselves to a variety of outfits as they can be styled in multiple ways. So I would ask, what makes an item versatile and long-lived for you? Those may be *your classics*. If you’re not really a crisp white fitted button front shirt person, for example, there is a counterpart that’s specific to you. Maybe that’s a boatneck washed silk top with an easy drape. Just an example. It’s easy to work with and you feel good in it — that’s your classic. SarahD8 on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403803 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:00:37 +0000 SarahD8 2403803@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ You are getting good advice here but I will add my voice to the chorus and beg you not to go in this direction! With the greatest of respect and friendliness of course. I think if you want pieces that are super versatile and will last forever, the very last place to look is among styles that you've long known don't work for you. From your post above and other recent posts I think you are looking for polish and reliability. I can definitely see why classics would seem to offer that. But I also very much relate to your feeling of "wrongness" in many classic items. Whenever I put on a blazer I want to crawl out of my skin. What a relief to remember I can just crawl out of the clothes! A useful approach can be to think about the *function* of pieces that end up on those lists of "classics every woman should own" and then figure out what pieces could serve that function for you. That is how I ended up with the idea that my cropped, boxy navy Aran cardigan with a broad collar is "my version of a jean jacket." My version of a "classic blazer" is a shawl-collar cardigan with a curved hem and shaping at the waist. Best part is that I now spend ZERO head space worrying about whether I should buy a jean jacket or a classic blazer. I do think that having this sorted makes me *feel* more polished, and more confident about getting dressed (in certain ways/situations...in other ways I certainly don't have it figured out!). If I see a jean jacket outfit on Pinterest that appeals to me, I know exactly how to translate it to my wardrobe. If I put on a sundress to go out to dinner in the summer and want to dress it down a bit, I know exactly which topper to reach for. The other thing that's worth thinking about is what exactly you mean by "versatility." Do you need a really warm sweater that can work in outfits across multiple levels of formality? Do you want ONE topper that will work with all your summer dresses? (I don't think you are a summer dress person but you get the idea.) kkards on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403800 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 13:07:48 +0000 kkards 2403800@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ So I think you probably already own a lot of “classics”, you just don’t see them that way.  <div>The black & brown outfit you posted back in November-the sweater and the boots, 100% classics. The straight leg pants, currently on the “classic” list. </div><div>Anyway that’s just my opinion.  </div><div> </div><div>I’ll always echo what others have said, what’s classic and essential to you is highly personal.   Your classic list and mine will look really different.</div> Helena on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403799 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:47:23 +0000 Helena 2403799@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Echoing others comment to focus on personal essentials rather than classics. BUT if you *want* to experiment with a classic or two, this might be one of those times when looking for body shape modifications might actually be useful, to find modifications the work best for your needs. Or, perhaps play with classics in a way that doesn't bring body shape into play at all - colour, fabric, or accessories. Is your goal more outfit cohesion? If so another option might be color complements? Those are really effective in creating pulled together looks imo. Chris987 on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403796 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:29:06 +0000 Chris987 2403796@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Maybe you should go to a retail store that carries classic styles, wearing your favorite things from your closet, pick out a handful of classic pieces, and do a big try on session. Take photos, don't buy. Then review the photos at home  (or post here) and see what you think.    That way you'd be assessing specific pieces (crewneck pullover sweater, straight leg trousers, button down shirt for example) alongside your existing items. Maybe some classic pieces would work for you,  maybe not. It seems to me that would be a better way to approach it than a very broad/general "wanting more classic pieces".    Star (Lise) on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403794 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 10:27:05 +0000 Star (Lise) 2403794@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ SAL I agree that we all need neutral coloured pieces in our wardrobes.  I used to have many orphaned pattern skirts because I did not have enough neutral coloured tops.  They are definitely glue or essential.  But they don't have to be classic in style.  Your example is great, leans more boho-lite to my eye. Sal on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403793 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:55:15 +0000 Sal 2403793@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think we all need essentials - typically neutral simple pieces. And often they are more timeless pieces - often classic -but not always. Could be elevated black joggers or a white linen shirt instead of a button down for example. I struggle with crisp white shirts but love a linen collarless shirt. Star (Lise) on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403792 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:46:16 +0000 Star (Lise) 2403792@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ LJP I strongly advise that you don't add pieces that you know are not you. Classic style pieces are not essentials for everyone. SUZ and DEE are dead right. Figure out your own essentials for your glue. I remember that you have a classic button down shirt that you never wear so I think that is telling. Not everyone is comfortable in classic pieces. I know you know this stuff but sometimes we all need reminders :). Suz on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403783 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 05:28:23 +0000 Suz 2403783@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Your essentials don't need to be classics. They just need to be the backbone of YOUR closet. I'd do as Dee suggests -- think about those items that you truly love or those that you literally feel like you can't get dressed without -- and go from there.  A good pair of jeans, is one. What "good" means will vary over time as styles change. That's ok. Jeans are still an essential in your closet. Probably blue jeans but maybe also jeans in another neutral. That's one essential.  Probably a good pair of black trousers of some kind, too?  Some kind of black shoe for each season maybe? Or possibly a bookending colour for your hair?  And go from there. Think your neutrals for all these items, whatever they are.  You may find that a few classics do make it into your essentials list in the end -- maybe a beautiful V neck sweater?  But either way, if you know what makes you feel great and you buy it in your own fashion neutrals, then you'll be on the way.  Penny on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403775 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:58:22 +0000 Penny 2403775@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Although one might describe my wardrobe as classic, it has none of the items you mentioned (other than a trench, although in dark navy instead of classic beige). I bought all those “must have” items way back when, and later ditched them all! They just weren’t for me. If it’s a question of building blocks and longevity, which are great considerations, perhaps considering your personal wardrobe essentials may help, which reminded me of this and other posts from Angie on the topic: <a href="https://youlookfab.com/2019/01/29/wardrobe-essentials-2019/" rel="nofollow">https://youlookfab.com/2019/01.....ials-2019/</a> slim cat on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403769 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:32:48 +0000 slim cat 2403769@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I don't feel right in traditional classic pieces but I have my own"classic" items in my wardrobe - like black moto leather jacket, black velvet wide leg ( not too wide )  pants, graphic tees in white, etc. You have your own "classic" things - just need to identify them ( that's my two cents ). Debbie on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403762 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 03:48:50 +0000 Debbie 2403762@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I don’t think you need the classics if you don’t want them. If you want to try them I would find a funky button down or cardigan. Classics don’t have to boring! I love your outfits. I don’t think you need to change anything. Dee on "How do I add classic pieces to my wardrobe? Or - do I even have to?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/how-do-i-add-classic-pieces-to-my-wardrobe-or---do-i-even-have-to#post-2403758 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 03:12:37 +0000 Dee 2403758@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Looks like you've certainly identified which classic items don't work and why, but I think now you should probably identify some of your favorite items that you already own and explore why you actually prefer them. They might not classics, but they could still serve as a great foundation to build a wardrobe of longevity. What's your preferred silhouette? What colours do you enjoy the most? You get the picture. You just need to figure out a few anchoring pieces and they certainly don't have to be classics and then build on it from there. Elegance can come from quality fabric choices, fluid fit and proportions, monochrome styling, playing with textures and thoughtful accessories.