5 Natural Closet Staples

Have you ever looked in your closet to put together an outfit only to be greeted by a cemetery of failed trends? It could be that you took a risk on a print, tried out a funky style of top you saw on your favorite celebrity, or finally ordered from that instagram you've been following for years only to end up with a polyester skirt that gives you swamp-ass. You've made a collection of mismatched experiments that can hardly create a coherent outfit.

Fashion is always changing. Even our personal styles evolve as we age. I love finding a new trend that speaks to my personal style or trying out the latest trending accessory to see what works. But if everything you own is a statement piece, your personal style can get lost in translation.

I've found that I'm much more likely to take risks when I know I'm building off a base of my tried and true staple pieces. My criteria for a staple item is:

• Comfort/Breathability

• Shape and Weight of Fabric

• Color

Here are my 5 natural fiber staples that my closet simply would not work without.

1. Denim Button-down Shirt

Light wash, dark wash, fitted or oversized this piece will NEVER disappoint.

A denim button-down shirt gives you the structured shape of officewear with the comfort and casualness of soft cotton denim.

HOW TO STYLE

Pair this piece with jeans for a Canadian tuxedo look, a bold chunky knit sweater over your shoulders for a preppy/scandinavian look, or with a trendy pattern pant.

TIP! If you're in a warmer climate, swap denim for chambray for the same look with less weight.

2. Linen Trousers

In Summer, I want to feel like Diane Keaton. I want to be in head-to-toe flowing fabric that lets my skin breathe.

Synthetic fabrics trap heat and often are not the best at wicking away sweat. Sometimes great for winter, but in the summer? Absolutely not.

A linen tailored trouser can be worn to almost any event in the warm seasons. Your legs are covered, but they're not suffocating. Look for a *neutral color to increase versatility.

*I consider stripes a neutral. Sue me.

HOW TO STYLE

Pair these with a vintage graphic tee and sandals for a casual look or dress it up with a voluminous lace blouse and block heels for a more dimensional look.

3. Heavy Knit T-Shirt

I REFUSE to buy another perfectly cut white t-shirt only to put it on and realize that it is TRANSPARENT.

One good heavy knit 100% cotton white tee is all you'll ever need. The weave on this piece is everything you need. The heft of the fabric makes it hang on the body like it belongs there and doesn't pull.

HOW TO STYLE

Pair this piece with anything you own. From a cheetah print mini skirt to lace bloomer shorts. Wear this top with your favorite chunky cardigan or underneath a classic oversized blazer.

4. Linen Shift Dress

A linen shift dress is THAT girl and she can do it all.

The key to a staple piece is finding the right fit, you want a shift dress that lets you move, isn't too tight in the shoulders or chest and has a flattering neckline for your shape.

A shift dress is not about your body - it is about how you style it. Which makes it perfect for trying out new weird accessories.

HOW TO STYLE

Pair this piece with BIG jewelry. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings. Patterned tights and knee high boots during the fall and a contrasting colored sweater and funky shoes for the spring and summer.

5. Wool Crewneck Sweater

This is the all-star of any wardrobe. Wool is one of the most versatile fabrics that you can own.

Wool can keep you warm AND it is naturally sweat-wicking meaning that if it's spun thin enough it can be a great lightweight layer in the summer to keep you cool.

Shout out to sheep.

HOW TO STYLE

Pair this piece with your favorite jeans and a bandana for a classic Americana look. Wear this as your top layer for those chilly summer nights. Put this on over a collared shirt for a buttoned-up look.