Basics
Feb 5, 2024

I'm Shopping Strategically in 2024—7 Classic Pieces I'm Prioritizing

by Judith Jones

There are plenty of trends to get excited about this year, and there's no doubt I'll be delving into a few of them. Capri pants and sheer skirts, I'm looking at you. I am, however, adamant to shop more strategically in 2024. For me, this means investing in classic pieces that I can mix and match throughout the year and beyond and that still feel fresh and of-the-moment. I'm prioritizing versatility and honing in on styles and silhouettes that are easy to wear and will ensure the chicest version of myself.

Below, I'm sharing seven classic styles that will make getting dressed easier and feel au courant thanks to their dominant presence on the runways and the fashion set. From straight-leg jeans to kitten heels, these basics will make even the most disgruntled wardrobes feel brand-new.

Photo:

@smythsisters

While baggy jeans and wide-leg jeans aren't going away anytime soon (I have a handful of pairs I'm still wearing on repeat), it's the relaxed straight-leg styles that I tend to gravitate to most often and I'll be investing in this season. We saw a resurgence of these '90s silhouettes on the 2024 runways, which makes them feel fresh for the year ahead.

Photo:

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Elegant coats with built-in scarves are here to stay and will become a classic in every fashion person's wardrobe. Fortunately, there are now plenty of options in a wide range of price points that exude a luxurious look.

Photo:

@anoukyve

A great button-down will always be in style. It's a piece you can wear year-round and dress up or down easily. This year is a perfect time to upgrade the classic basic. I'll be seeking out crisp white, blue, and striped iterations to pair with tailored trousers, jeans, and shorts as we head into the warmer months.

Photo:

Prada/Launchmetrics Spotlight

I'll be walking comfortably in 2024 and investing in a chic pair of super-low heels. On the runways, we saw a variety of styles, from satin mules to sleek slingbacks that feel cool, comfortable, and classy. These picks below will never go out of style.

Photo:

@deborabrosa

Don't underestimate the power of a simple crewneck sweater. This year, I'm choosing neutral hues (charcoal gray, black, beige, and white) in relaxed silhouettes that are ideal for styling over white tees and with trendier pieces such as a sheer skirt for a very 2024 look. One thing's certain: A quality crewneck will last for years to come.

Photo:

@iliridakrasniqi

A large leather handbag feels of-the-moment (I'm spotting the fashion set sporting them everywhere right now), and a minimal silhouette is timeless in nature and perfect for carrying my laptop, lipsticks, last night's heels, and, well, entire life! I'll be opting for black, burgundy, or tan for utmost versatility.

Photo:

@endlesslyloveclub

The understated neutral will always be classy, and this year, I'm investing in a handful of chic gray tailored pieces that will add instant polish to my ensembles. Think tailored trousers and sleek blazers for an elevated '90s vibe.