10 Fashion Staples to have by 30

As I am quickly approaching my 30’s, I have done a lot of thought and reflection on my 20’s and which fashion staples a girl should have before she crosses into her thirties. I’ve made my fair share of fashion mistakes over the years. I’ve experimented with the new (when the idea of sneaks with dresses was new) , the trendy, and the wild but finally, feel like I’ve settled into my own style and learned to invest in those fashion staples. I’ve learned a lot about myself and business since I started blogging but my biggest lesson is that it’s better to shop smarter, not for more. I’ve had the privilege of discovering and working with some amazing brands and the products made with higher quality labor and materials are the ones I constantly reach for long after the partnership is over. You shouldn’t feel like you have to break the bank on each of these fashion staples, but go up a level from where you shop day in and day out. For example, if you get 99% of your pieces at Target, consider Nordstrom or a department store for your staples. I shop regularly at both of those stores and have found them to complement each other really well. Today, I’m rounding up 10 fashion staples every woman should have in her wardrobe by the time she turns 30.

.01 Striped Shirt

A striped shirt is, far and away, a fashion staple. You just can’t beat a timeless classic in my book. Stripes are season-less and timeless and have never gone out of style. Every fashion girl’s wardrobe should include a black and white striped shirt that is easy to wear and easy to layer or stand-alone.

long sleeve stripe shirt. short sleeve stripe shirt.

.02 White Sneakers

There are lots of great sneaker options on the market right now because of the booming athleisure trend. Because of the wide array of options, you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a good pair of white sneaks in your budget range. If you are going to invest in a pair of designer sneakers like Gucci, Golden Goose, etc, I recommend going with classic black and white or white and another neutral accent color. They will go with everything and you’ll definitely get your money’s worth from them.

golden goose white sneakers.

.03 The Moto Jacket

It is really difficult to think about a moto jacket right now as we are approaching 85 degree days, but it has to be on the list. A classic moto jacket is a fashion staple and should definitely be in your wardrobe. A lot of brands are showing tan and beige versions which are totally fab! If black is a little too harsh/ motorcycle gang for you, try one of the lighter colors. They are both great for adding an edge to super feminine pieces.

moto jacket.

.04 A Blazer

Similar to the moto jacket, a well-tailored blazer is a must-have. I am close to having one in every color but this pink one is my all-time favorite as is the black one shown up top with the striped shirt. I have the best luck with J.Crew blazers because they fit just right in the shoulders and are often on sale. There’s not much better than getting those investment fashion staples for a steal. If J.Crew doesn’t fit your body type, there are so many great brands that offer a tailored fit. You could also opt to pick out a blazer you like and have it altered to fit you the best.

.05 A Good Watch

In a world of smart homes, phones, and Alexa, I find comfort in the simple things. I 100% believe in the convenience/ cool factor of the smartwatch. I mean, who thought we’d ever take calls on our wrists like the Power Rangers back in the day?! While smartwatches are cool, I’m partial to the old school timepiece. I love the classic look of a leather band and a clean face that doesn’t light up. I have several watches but these are my go-to (except the apple watch, I borrowed my mom’s for the photo). I literally wear the black one every day and have almost worn the band out. I’ve linked these and some other great watches that are perfect for everyday wear.

black leather. gold mesh. apple.

.06 A Classic or Not, Trench Coat

Year after year, the trench coat continues to be a fashion must-have. This classic silhouette is getting some fun updates that are making it popular again. I constantly reach for my classic khaki but really love adding this pink gingham to my wardrobe. My advice on picking a color or print: choose a color or pattern you wear often or that coordinates with your wardrobe. I wear a ton of pink so this one acts as a neutral for me because it pairs back to so many other pieces in my wardrobe.

classic trench. gingham trench.

.07 Wear With Everything Ballet Flats

I swear by these flats. While the nude is my go-to, I have them in black, pink and leopard. They are hands down the most comfortable flats for not a lot of money. Sure, they are more than the ones at Target, but most are right around $100 regular price and are often on sale or coupon eligible at several department stores. I’ve been wearing these Sam Edelman flats for over 6 years and have yet to find a better pair.

nude. leopard. black.

.08 Go-To Sunglasses

heart sunglasses.

.09 Your Perfect Lip

Hot pink is definitely my signature lip color. I have a few different shade variations but the overall look is a shockingly electric hot pink. Currently, I am trading off between this Dior Addict lipstick and a Fashion Fair color that is not currently available. Sadly, Fashion Fair has major issues keeping inventory so it will probably not be making a comeback any time soon. Don’t worry, I’ve found some other great options that will give you the perfect pink pout.

.10 A Chic Tote

I think it goes without saying, but I’ll say it anyway. A woman in her 30s and even her 20s needs a good leather tote. Whether it be for travel, work, mom life or fun, a carryall tote is a must-have. Some people prefer a go-with-everything black, navy or cognac, but I love the colorful ones and have found my perfect match with Beck Bags. The good news for you is that they come in all the rainbow and classic colors so all you have to do is choose the right size.