Update: This post was originally published on December 26, 2014.
Many of us have two types of clothes in our closets: the of-the-moment, trendy pieces and the classics. They are equally important, but we tend to place greater value on the latter because, well, they'll never go out of style. While you probably have many of these in your arsenal already — the LBD, the pumps, and the white button-up, for example — there are undoubtedly a few missing. Alternatively, there may be pieces you've had for 10 years that could use an upgrade.
Fortunately, the New Year is fast approaching and there's no better excuse to freshen up your wardrobe than during this time for change. Kick off your search for the perfect foundation pieces with the 30 beautiful finds ahead. Go ahead, splurge a little now — but save a bit for when you finally decide which 2015 trends you're going to adopt for yourself.
The Updated LBD
You can't get through life without an LBD (duh). Choose a classic silhouette that has a bit of unexpected element (note the ruffle detail) to keep the vibe modern.
Jonathan Simkhai Cutout Ruffled Crepe Midi Dress, $795, available at Net-a-Porter.
The Trench Coat
The wrong topper could throw off your entire 9-to-5 game. That's why a trench is essential — it'll elevate your ensemble and show your cohorts you mean business.
The Arrivals Frei Modular Trench Coat, $385, available at The Arrivals.
The Perfectly Sized Wallet
Searching for the perfect wallet that holds the essentials our lives without getting too bulky is a total drag. Good thing this one is large enough that you'll never spend extra minutes searching for it at the bottom of your bag, and the all-around zipper will contain all the cash, credit cards, and loose receipts you’re inevitably going to jam in there.
Acne Studios Fluorite Grapefruit, $470, available at Acne Studios.
The Work Flats
On those days when heels just aren't in the cards, a sophisticated pair of flats completes any outfit.
Everlane The Brixton Lace Up, $175, available at Everlane.
The A-Line Skirt
This shape has been around forever — and for good reason. Pair it with a white blouse, and you're ready to take on the world.
Topshop Tinsel Patch Midi Skirt, $130, available at Topshop.
The Staple Earrings
When you don't feel like thinking about your accessories, throw these on to complement any getup.
Open House Projects Loupe Earrings, $216, available at Open House Projects.
The Perfect-Fitting Jeans
Your jeans are your second skin. And, there's a reason higher-end ones cost what they do — they'll fit like a glove.
Paige Jacqueline Straight, $226, available at Paige Denim.
The Heeled Sandals
You go to weddings all year long. You might as well get a pair of heels you can wear to all of them. These will work now with embellished stockings or with bare legs (and a pretty pedicure) come June.
St eve Madden Carrson Sandals, $89.95, available at Steve Madden.
The Weekender
Let's be real: Showing up to the car-rental place with your giant roller suitcase for a two-day excursion with your S.O. is pretty high-maintenance. A quality duffel that fits the essentials is all you need.
Baggu Sport Duffel, $36, available at Baggu.
The Moto Jacket
If you don't have one of these, you may want to think about investing in one: It's a no-brainer for those chilly nights out when your other toppers just don't feel cool enough.
Mango Leather Biker Jacket, $249.99, available at Mango.
The Wool Scarf
Rather than picking up a bunch of $5, paper-thin scarves on the street, go for a wool version that won't pill. After all, you'll be getting a lot of wear out of it.
COS Pleated Wool Scarf, $115, available at COS.
The Black Booties
We all know these are a daily staple — make 'em count by getting a pair with super sleek details, like an architectural heel.
Camper Lea Boot, $225 $180, available at Camper.
The Structured Tote
You juggle a lot during the workday, so you need a tote that can handle it all. A bag in a classic color and shape will take you through this season and beyond.
Coach Rexy Gotham Tote, $695, available at Coach.
The Any-Occasion Dress
Is your inbox clogged with invites? It's smart to invest in a quality frock you can dress up or down depending on the affair.
& Other Stories Disco Dress, $125, available at & Other Stories.
The Fancy Coat
A beautiful topper can make you look glam in the most disheveled of times (like those coffee runs in sweats).
The Frankie Shop Light Blue Lapel Coat, $240, available at The Frankie Shop.
The Oversized Shades
Hey, the sun shines all year. Splurge on a quality pair that'll protect your peepers.
Poppy Lissiman Dakota Sunglasses, $110, available at Poppy Lissiman.
The Chunky Sweater
Finding the perfect, wear-once-a-week sweater is kinda like finding your soulmate. (Stick with us here.) Once you find it, you never let it go. This one's a good candidate for sweater-soulmate status.
Genuine People Oversized Crop Knit Sweater, $119 $99, available at Genuine People.
The Walkable Heels
Let this gorgeous pair take you from desk to dance floor.
Gucci Leather Pump, $850, available at Gucci.
The Office Dress
You can throw a blazer over this and toss on sky-high pumps for that important business meeting, or slip into easy flats for a lazier day in your cube. (Ah, the many lives of a classic wear-to-work dress.)
Oak and Fort Dress, $68, available at Oak and Fort.
The Going-Out Clutch
Everyone needs that one little bag. This one will actually fit all of your essentials. (Hurray!)
Loeffler Randall Tab Clutch, $350, available at Loeffler Randall.
The Fitted Turtleneck
Layering is necessary for warmth, but it can also make an ensemble feel more high-concept. Try this under a sweater or jumper for a next-level winter look.
UNIQLO Heattech Turtleneck T-shirt, $14.90, available at UNIQLO.
The Classic Suit
Don't tell anyone, but we hear the tailored suit may be back. Wear it to interviews, meetings, or mix-and-match with other pieces for after-work.
Rejina Pyo Claire Belted Cloque Blazer, $700, available at Net-a-Porter. Rejina Pyo Ava Pintucked Crepe Wide-Leg Pants, $560, available at Net-a-Porter.
The Everyday Watch
This tortoiseshell timepiece is a classic with a twist.
Nixon Time Teller Acetate, $125, available at Nixon.
The Slip-On Sneakers
You may not be able to get away with trainers at the office, but you definitely need a pair of classic sneakers for kicking it on the weekends. A slip-on style is something you can wear today and five years from now.
Vans Gold Dots Slip On, $60, available at Vans.
The Wide-Leg Trousers
These stunners look amazing with a slim tee and sandals for a night out, or a blouse and pumps for the office.
H&M Wide Leg Side Stripe Pants, $49.99, available at H&M.
The Wide-Brim Hat
Hat trends come and go, but the wide-brim is always a staple — and can pull together any look.
Need Supply Co. Jeanne Hat, $48, available at Need Supply Co.
The Striped Tee
Channel your inner French girl in this striped number. Choose a style that's a little different — like this colorblocked option — and you'll stand out from a sea of navy and white.
AEO Soft and Sexy Raglan T-Shirt, $29.95, available at American Eagle.
The Puffer
You can't get through winter without it.
Ivy Park Metallic Puffer Coat, $200, available at Nordstrom.
The Unique Ring
An eye-catching ring spices up your outfit, but is not so costume-y that you can't wear it every single day.
Sarah and Sebastian Face Ring, $275.43, available at Sarah and Sebastian.
The Crisp Button-Up
It's the foundation of many a wardrobe — and lots of us have more than one in our closets. An interesting twist, like layers, adds something special to the classic piece.
ASOS White Shirt With Bell Sleeve, $68, available at ASOS.
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