Ever wondered what your clothes would say if they could talk? Read on to “eavesdrop” on your wardrobe staples as they open up about themselves.

By Lindsay Samson

Jan 7, 2021

Staples, classics, essentials—call them what you will, they’re the building blocks of your wardrobe that serve as both reliable bases and finishing touches. They’re the dependable pieces that make day-to-night dressing that much easier and, whatever your aesthetic, are likely already to be found in your style arsenal. And though a more commonly asked question would probably be “what do your clothes say about you”, could you imagine what these pivotal pieces would say if they themselves could talk? Picture it; you turn your back and, à la Buzz, Woody and the rest of the Toy Story gang, the shirts in your closet begin to bicker over who’s worn the most, while that purse you’ve forgotten all about sits in the back reminiscing about the days when she was the favorite. But, imagined petty wardrobe in-fighting aside, wouldn't that be quite something? Read on to listen to an “interview” with five cornerstones of a well-curated closet.  

the blazer




please, introduce yourself.

Firstly, I’ve been an unwavering wardrobe must-have for years, a status accrued thanks to my versatility and innate ability to smarten things up. Love though I may a good party as much as the next garment, a day at the office is my preferred excursion and, thanks once again to that aforementioned adaptability, I can bridge the gap from one to the other. 

WHAT DO YOU MOST ENJOY BEING PAIRED WITH?

I truly thrive as part of a matching set; there’s something about being paired with a sister skirt or trouser that feels polished, dependable, and business-ready. I’m no one-trick pony though, as you’ll discover from my partiality to the classic vintage blue jeans and t-shirt combo that incorporates me.

Why do you think we come back to you season after season?

I suppose I bring a level of sophistication to the table that’s uniquely my own. Whether I’m in a more menswear-inspired cut, or in a more feminine silhouette that accentuates the waist, you can rely on me to ensure that you always exude an air of confidence.

Shop me

Red Ayumi Blazer
Red Ayumi Blazer
Red Ayumi Blazer
Red Ayumi Blazer

Studio 189

Red Ayumi Blazer

$325
Green Double-Breasted Blazer
Green Double-Breasted Blazer
Green Double-Breasted Blazer
Green Double-Breasted Blazer

Studio 189

Green Double-Breasted Blazer

$575
The Okawa Jacket
The Okawa Jacket
The Okawa Jacket
The Okawa Jacket

Emmy Kasbit

The Okawa Jacket

$220
Tuxedo Jacket
Tuxedo Jacket
Tuxedo Jacket

Kahindo

Tuxedo Jacket

$425
Embroidered Short-Sleeve Blazer
Embroidered Short-Sleeve Blazer
Embroidered Short-Sleeve Blazer
Embroidered Short-Sleeve Blazer

Christie Brown

Embroidered Short-Sleeve Blazer

$350
Monochrome Double-Breasted Blazer
Monochrome Double-Breasted Blazer
Monochrome Double-Breasted Blazer
Monochrome Double-Breasted Blazer

Studio 189

Monochrome Double-Breasted Blazer

$575


the leather bag




how would you describe yourself?

Not to toot my own horn or anything (ok, to toot my own hown a little bit): I like to think of myself as an indispensable investment piece, an entity that deserves careful consideration before purchasing. And sure, I can be a bit pricey sometimes (and fine, maybe a touch snobby too) but that’s just because fine craftsmanship and quality materials are integral to who I am. 

Who are your go-to companions?

Honestly, I’m not fussed at all. I think that’s one of my best qualities. I work well with everything, but it’s my presence that tends to elevate an outfit’s level of polish. I can be grabbed one is heading out in that fresh sweat suit and sneakers, and I am just as comfortable as an elegant evening dress’ plus one. 

What gives you staying power?

It’s simple really: I’m a fail-safe classic that’s durable, and in it for the long haul. Plus, there are always new versions of me to play with. So whether you’re partial to brilliant, vivid versions of me, or prefer my trusty, neutral-hued form, I’ll always be the outfit add-on that simply can’t be done without. 

Shop me

Nikki Messenger Bag
Nikki Messenger Bag
Nikki Messenger Bag
Nikki Messenger Bag
Nikki Messenger Bag

Thalia Strates

Nikki Messenger Bag

$400
Scarlet Red Aja Clutch with Zen Zulu Horn Charm
Scarlet Red Aja Clutch with Zen Zulu Horn Charm
Scarlet Red Aja Clutch with Zen Zulu Horn Charm
Scarlet Red Aja Clutch with Zen Zulu Horn Charm
Scarlet Red Aja Clutch with Zen Zulu Horn Charm
Scarlet Red Aja Clutch with Zen Zulu Horn Charm
Scarlet Red Aja Clutch with Zen Zulu Horn Charm

Okapi

Scarlet Red Aja Clutch with Zen Zulu Horn Charm

$680
Kai Cross-Body Bag
Kai Cross-Body Bag
Kai Cross-Body Bag

Thalia Strates

Kai Cross-Body Bag

$353
The Ameena
The Ameena
The Ameena
The Ameena
The Ameena
The Ameena

FemiHandbags

The Ameena

$595
La Petite Ameena in Pink and Yellow
La Petite Ameena in Pink and Yellow
La Petite Ameena in Pink and Yellow
La Petite Ameena in Pink and Yellow
La Petite Ameena in Pink and Yellow
La Petite Ameena in Pink and Yellow

FemiHandbags

La Petite Ameena in Pink and Yellow

$480
Kabrousse Weekender
Kabrousse Weekender
Kabrousse Weekender
Kabrousse Weekender
Kabrousse Weekender
Kabrousse Weekender

Bouswari

Kabrousse Weekender

$400
Small Burnt Amber Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Burnt Amber Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Burnt Amber Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Burnt Amber Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Burnt Amber Yemaja Shoulder Bag

Okapi

Small Burnt Amber Yemaja Shoulder Bag

$1,915


The Button Down Shirt




What’s your defining characteristic?

I hate to admit it, but I’m something of a people pleaser. My priority is flexibility, with comfort and practicality coming in a close second. I try to be everything to everybody. On hot days, when comfortable and cool styles are called for, my oversized iterations exude undone chic, and when more tailored cuts called for, I am on hand to dial up the sophistication.

Of these situations you mention, do you have a personal preference?

That depends on you, really. I can be impeccably sharp or the perfect addition to a messy-chic look. Tucked into a high-waisted skirt is one of favorite ways to deliver on feminine refinement and evening elegance. But, throw me over a crop top and leggings, and I’ll show you I can do easy-going simplicity just as well!

Why can’t people get enough of you?

I think I’m something of a wardrobe non-negotiable, don’t you? I blend pretty seamlessly into most looks, but my status as a layering hero, I think, is unmatched. Try me beneath a shift dress or a crew-neck sweater for a preppy look that’s perfect for chillier days.

Shop me

Ruffle Cuff Shirt
Ruffle Cuff Shirt
Ruffle Cuff Shirt
Ruffle Cuff Shirt

Studio 189

Ruffle Cuff Shirt

$375
Blouson Ladder Shirt
Blouson Ladder Shirt
Blouson Ladder Shirt
Blouson Ladder Shirt

Studio 189

Blouson Ladder Shirt

$295
Ruched Organza Shirt
Ruched Organza Shirt
Ruched Organza Shirt

Lisa Folawiyo

Ruched Organza Shirt

$329
Black Mandevo Shirt
Black Mandevo Shirt
Black Mandevo Shirt

Taibo Bacar

Black Mandevo Shirt

$147

Fruché

"Freedom Is My Birthright" Shirt

$360
Indigo Knot Shirt
Indigo Knot Shirt
Indigo Knot Shirt
Indigo Knot Shirt
Indigo Knot Shirt

NKWO

Indigo Knot Shirt

$201
Ifunanya Draped White Shirt
Ifunanya Draped White Shirt
Ifunanya Draped White Shirt
Ifunanya Draped White Shirt
Ifunanya Draped White Shirt
Ifunanya Draped White Shirt

Orange Culture

Ifunanya Draped White Shirt

$200


The Jumpsuit




How would you define yourself?

Me? I’m the best of all worlds; I am a marriage of style, comfort, and ease. When I am around, one need not worry about mixing and matching tops and bottoms because I am a head-to-toe, all-in-one wonder! I am the closet workhorse that makes your work easy.

If you had to choose your accessories, what would they be?

I am OBSESSED with heeled mules and straw boater hats right now. They’re both uber chic, and absolute fire when paired with my lightly colored, summer-ready forms. My more utilitarian iterations on the other hand, well, they don’t need more than a classic, flat sandal and on-trend backpack to really pop.

What’s your biggest selling point?

I’m the one-stop dressing solution everyone needs! And once you’ve experienced the simplicity of just zipping/buttoning up and going, you just know I’ll prove irresistible everytime. Not to mention that there’s a style to suit everyone—from overalls and boiler suits, to more figure-hugging, belted fits, I really can do it all. 

shop me

Bumi Jumpsuit
Bumi Jumpsuit
Bumi Jumpsuit
Bumi Jumpsuit
Bumi Jumpsuit
Bumi Jumpsuit

KikoRomeo

Bumi Jumpsuit

$325
Short-Sleeve Tie Detail Jumpsuit
Short-Sleeve Tie Detail Jumpsuit
Short-Sleeve Tie Detail Jumpsuit
Short-Sleeve Tie Detail Jumpsuit

IAMISIGO

Short-Sleeve Tie Detail Jumpsuit

$341
Shanti Romper
Shanti Romper
Shanti Romper
Shanti Romper
Shanti Romper
Shanti Romper
Shanti Romper

Andrea Iyamah

Shanti Romper

$266
Signature Jumpsuit
Signature Jumpsuit
Signature Jumpsuit
Signature Jumpsuit
Signature Jumpsuit
Signature Jumpsuit
Signature Jumpsuit
Signature Jumpsuit
Signature Jumpsuit

Viviers

Signature Jumpsuit

$1,100
Jama Jumpsuit
Jama Jumpsuit
Jama Jumpsuit

Tongoro

Jama Jumpsuit

$300
Malu Jumpsuit
Malu Jumpsuit
Malu Jumpsuit

Tongoro

Malu Jumpsuit

$240
Mermoz Jumpsuit
Mermoz Jumpsuit
Mermoz Jumpsuit
Mermoz Jumpsuit
Mermoz Jumpsuit
Mermoz Jumpsuit
Mermoz Jumpsuit

KikoRomeo

Mermoz Jumpsuit

$395
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit
Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit

Diarrablu

Zeen Vert Nafi Jumpsuit

$225
Barah Jumpsuit
Barah Jumpsuit
Barah Jumpsuit
Barah Jumpsuit

KikoRomeo

Barah Jumpsuit

$361
Tokyo Jumpsuit
Tokyo Jumpsuit
Tokyo Jumpsuit
Tokyo Jumpsuit
Tokyo Jumpsuit
Tokyo Jumpsuit
Tokyo Jumpsuit

Rethread

Tokyo Jumpsuit

$184
Black and White Jumpsuit
Black and White Jumpsuit
Black and White Jumpsuit
Black and White Jumpsuit

Dye Lab

Black and White Jumpsuit

$285
Trapeze Corset Jumpsuit
Trapeze Corset Jumpsuit
Trapeze Corset Jumpsuit
Trapeze Corset Jumpsuit
Trapeze Corset Jumpsuit
Trapeze Corset Jumpsuit
Trapeze Corset Jumpsuit
Trapeze Corset Jumpsuit

Viviers

Trapeze Corset Jumpsuit

$1,545
Tusk Edar Jumpsuit
Tusk Edar Jumpsuit
Tusk Edar Jumpsuit
Tusk Edar Jumpsuit
Tusk Edar Jumpsuit
Tusk Edar Jumpsuit
Tusk Edar Jumpsuit

Andrea Iyamah

Tusk Edar Jumpsuit

$390
Oma Jumpsuit
Oma Jumpsuit
Oma Jumpsuit

Oríré

Oma Jumpsuit

$181
Brown Bumi Jumpsuit
Brown Bumi Jumpsuit

KikoRomeo

Brown Bumi Jumpsuit

$325
Gray Bumi Jumpsuit
Gray Bumi Jumpsuit

KikoRomeo

Gray Bumi Jumpsuit

$325
Yellow Bumi Jumpsuit
Yellow Bumi Jumpsuit

KikoRomeo

Yellow Bumi Jumpsuit

$325


The Statement Earring




What would you say is your raison d'être? 

Oh darling, I live for the applause; for the drama! But you knew that! As the essential final flourish they always turned to for that instant dose of glamor, what else would you expect? Drenched in gold, bedecked with precious jewels, fashioned from unusual materials! Sweetie, I come as all sorts. I’m the piece you pick out when you’re looking to turn heads or exude a particular je ne sais quoi.

With whom do you like to share top billing in a full look?

Nobody! J’adore grand showmanship and being the icing on top of a simple cake, so make me the center of attention, I always say. Just imagine the spice I add to the little black dress or other monochrome look? So yes, I like my outfit pairings muted, cheri, because I, darling, am a STAR and a star does not share the limelight! 

Why do you think your fans love you?

Well, darling? Wouldn’t you? Look at me! I refuse to bend to trends. I am a thing of gleaming, gilded, and timeless beauty. I endure. I endure, darling. And you know why? Because as Keats put it, “a thing of beauty is a joy forever,” and I am a thing of immense beauty, darling. I’ll be passed right on down to your progeny like the heirloom that I so obviously am!

Shop me

Bossa Nova Earrings
Bossa Nova Earrings
Bossa Nova Earrings
Bossa Nova Earrings

Pichulik

Bossa Nova Earrings

$105
Form Earrings
Form Earrings
Form Earrings
Form Earrings
Form Earrings

Ami Doshi Shah

Form Earrings

$285
Kifungo Double Tassel Earrings
Kifungo Double Tassel Earrings
Kifungo Double Tassel Earrings
Kifungo Double Tassel Earrings

Sidai Designs

Kifungo Double Tassel Earrings

$70
Dhamani Adele Earrings
Dhamani Adele Earrings
Dhamani Adele Earrings
Dhamani Adele Earrings

Adele Dejak

Dhamani Adele Earrings

$85
Frond Drop Earrings
Frond Drop Earrings
Frond Drop Earrings

Ami Doshi Shah

Frond Drop Earrings

$280
Pembetatu Earrings
Pembetatu Earrings
Pembetatu Earrings

Sidai Designs

Pembetatu Earrings

$72
Sea Urchin Spine Earrings with Blue Topaz
Sea Urchin Spine Earrings with Blue Topaz
Sea Urchin Spine Earrings with Blue Topaz

Patrick Mavros

Sea Urchin Spine Earrings with Blue Topaz

$375