Even as a fashion girlie, I’m more triggered by the words “capsule wardrobe” than by the girls who do back-to-back Barry’s on a Saturday morning. Why is it that finding the perfect crisp white t-shirt feels like a heavier feat than choosing a Met Gala gown?
Everybody is hardcore riding the capsule wave, and with that comes pressure to fill your closet with pieces Arielle Charnas would wear to take Esme to a birthday party. If you’re not investing in “forever” purchases, you’re seen as a trend-chaser, and if you are, you run the risk of being called a “basic” dresser. Horrifying.
Thankfully, I chatted with Natalie Simkins of @simkinstyle, a New York-based content creator with charming Southern roots. The “budget-savvy” stylist brought a colorful new perspective to the West Village when she moved (with her cavapoo, obviously) to the city from South Carolina.
Natalie’s M.O. is masterfully blending girl-next-door charm with high-fashion sophistication, so naturally, I’m dying to know what’s in her everyday rotation. Closet essentials that stand the test of time AND aren’t as unattainable as a Corner Store reservation at 8:00 p.m. on a Friday night? I’m into it.
Keep reading for Natalie’s go-to basics….for the non-basic bitch.
TWP Next Ex Shirt
A button-down is always at the top of my list because it immediately elevates an outfit and looks great with everything — jeans, workout sets, mini skirts or even as a coverup if oversized! My favorite is TWP's cropped button-down because it looks amazing with high-waisted jeans and still has that oversized/boxy look without drowning you.
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Agolde Low Curve Jeans
I love dark wash denim because of how easily it can be dressed up or down. You could wear the same button-down and jeans and easily take it from day to night with a simple shoe and accessories change.
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Favorite Daughter The Favorite Pant
Because we can't wear jeans all the time! Everyone needs a tailored trouser in their wardrobe for a more polished look.
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Citizens Of Humanity Palma Straight Jeans
For when blue jeans just aren’t going to work.
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Margaux The Demi Flat
With proper care, a good-quality ballet flat will carry you for years and work with almost any outfit.
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Tuckernuck Off-The-Shoulder Bria Blouse
A go-to night out/date night/evening top will make getting dressed on weekends much easier. Pair it with tailored trousers, a mini skirt, denim, anything!
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Everlane The Dream Mini Skirt
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I find myself reaching for mini skirts so often — in the winter, I pair them with tights and knee-high boots, and in the summer, they look adorable with a ballet flat, kitten heel, or sandal!
Toteme Satin Slingback Pumps
For when you need to elevate your look without sacrificing comfort.
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Norma Kamali Belted Turtleneck Midi Dress
This is an obvious one, but a good black dress will take you anywhere. When you have fun with your accessories and mix them up, it's like a different outfit every time you wear it!
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Wardrobe NYC Oversize Single Breast Blazer
A good blazer is another item I always reach for because it's such an easy way to change the look of your outfit completely — you can wear it with pretty much all of the capsule pieces I've mentioned so far!
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Jenni Kayne Everyday Sweater
An easy layering piece that will carry you through multiple seasons. I also love wearing one around my shoulders!
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La Ligne Colby Pants
This was a last-minute addition, but I couldn't live without my Colby pants. I think I have like 5 colors. Not only are they comfortable and feel like pajamas, but they look amazing dressed both up and down! I've worn mine with sneakers, flats, heels, boots... I can't name a combo I haven't done with these pants.
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