6 Classic Pieces That Are Set to Be the Foundations of My 2024 Wardrobe

There are plenty of 2024 trends to get excited about, but personally, it's always the more classic pieces that linger in my mind. A perfect-fitting pair of jeans, for example, or an artfully tailored blazer that looks like it should hang in a museum. And right now, there are six items in particular which I've eagerly added to my wish list.

Photo:

@anoukyve

Most trends are transient by nature, but some pieces have been in circulation for decades, making them a wise investment if you're planning on updating your wardrobe in 2024. There's no better time than the new year to evaluate the gaps in your closet and add clothing and accessories which will make getting dressed easier—and more satisfying. Prioritising versatility and honing in on the styles you already wear a tonne is one way to ensure you always feel like the chicest version of yourself. For me, this means pressing pause on trends (however hard this may be) and making sure the foundations are in place first.

With that, the following six categories are where I'll be focusing my shopping energy this season. I know that each will be a worthwhile purchase that I'll still wear in two, five and ten years' time. From the simple knitwear style I reach for daily to the fail-safe blouse that I always fall back on, take a look at the classic pieces below.

1. Olive Outerwear

Classic pieces 2024: @vikilefevre wears an olive coat with Mary Jane ballet flats

Photo:

@vikilefevre

Style Notes: Olive is as versatile as beige and black in my eyes, but the slight hint of colour creates a more multi-dimensional look. Sitting somewhere between green and brown, it adds a premium feel to every outfit.

Shop olive outerwear:

2. Silk Blouses

Classic pieces 2024: @anoukyve wears a silk blouse with black trousers and slingbacks

Photo:

@anoukyve

Style Notes: For dinner parties and date nights, a silk or satin blouse is an elegant option that can easily be chucked on with jeans. I already own one, but given how frequently I reach for it, I plan on picking up another in 2024.

Shop silk blouses:

Just add a black slip skirt and slingbacks.

3. Pearl-Adorned Jewellery

Style Notes: They say diamonds are forever, but I'm convinced pearls are just as enduring. Choker-style pearl necklaces are one of the most timeless trends of the year, alongside hoop earrings featuring this sophisticated stone.

Shop pearl jewellery:

All our editors rate Arket's jewellery.

4. Collared Knitwear

Style Notes: Add a collar to a knit and it immediately takes on a preppy quality. Both cardigans and V-neck jumpers benefit from this understated detail.

Shop collared knitwear:

Red might be on-trend, but it's also a classic colour.

5. Burgundy Bags

Classic pieces 2024: @monikh carries a burgundy bag

Photo:

@monikh

Style Notes: Bright red was the colour of 2023, but for 2024, all signs are pointing to burgundy being the dominant shade. I was already planning to add a merlot- or ruby-hued bag to my collection, so this is music to my ears. 

Shop burgundy bags:

Bottega Veneta bags are always worth the investment.

The perfect on-the-go accessory.

We're still obsessed with this heart-shaped design.

Just one of the great bags you can find on the high street.

6. Check Suiting

Classic pieces 2024: @livmadeleine wears a check suit from Marks and Spencer

Photo:

@livmadeleine

Style Notes: Both men and women have been wearing check-print suits forever, but I have yet to invest in one. With all the chic iterations out there now, I'm hoping 2024 will be the year.

Shop check suits:

This is Liv's exact suit—can you believe it's from the high street?

Mix and match the pieces when you don't feel like wearing a suit.

Style a turtleneck or a white shirt underneath.