Keep Your Precious “Closet Must Have”
deinfluencing you from some "must have" clothing pieces- and why im thriving without them.
You’ve bought them all, every “closet essential” and “basic” piece you’re supposed to have. Tanks in every color and cut, baby tees, oversized tees, and more pairs of jeans than you can count, each with slightly different shades and fits. Yet somehow, every morning, getting dressed feels like a burden. Your closet is full, but your style still feels stuck, uninspired, and frustratingly repetitive.
Here’s the kicker: just because something is widely accepted as a “must have” whether it’s the social media hype, fashion blogs, or that unspoken, almost dictionary like list of closet staples, doesn’t mean you actually need it. There are essentials I don’t own, and I’m here to break down why skipping these pieces hasn’t held me back, but freed me instead.
It’s time to stop blindly buying what everyone says you need and start thinking for yourself.
DISCLAIMER: I’m not saying these pieces aren’t valid or that they’re bad to own. Many of them are valid and great additions to a wardrobe. What I want to do here is break down the “must have” basics I don’t own, not to trash them, but to encourage you to think critically about your own closet. Have you ever felt pressured to buy something just because everyone online says you have to have it? Not because it’s trendy, but because it’s that “universally accepted” basic that everyone insists is essential?
This isn’t about knocking anyone’s style or choices. It’s about offering a different perspective and hopefully inspiring you to question the fashion rules you follow, so you can build a wardrobe that actually works for you.
#1 A little Black Dress
I know, I can hear all of you collectively gasping already, but yes its true. I do not own a little black dress and I never have.
The supposed holy grail of every wardrobe. It’s sold as this magical piece that can solve all your outfit dilemmas, a timeless essential that everyone needs to own. But here’s the truth: owning an LBD doesn’t guarantee satisfaction.
I’ve found that mixing separates ie, a textured black skirt with a black mesh or ribbed top gives me infinitely more options and personality than any “classic” dress could. Instead of being stuck with one “go, to,” I get to play with layering, fabric, and shapes to build looks that feel truly mine.
For me a dress is already something a bit more elevated and slapping on a dress thats just plain black doesn’t do it enough for me, I need more excitement, more drama; Patterns, colors, and textures offer richness and excitement that a plain black dress just can’t match for me. I know I can always dress it up with accesories however, I never felt like a LBD was ever missing for me.
The dress that I do go for is my LRD (Little RED dress) . Theres something about choosing to wear a red dress over your standard black one that just hits different… a red dress commands attention, theres something so chic about opting for a red dress rather than a black one, cause why settle for “basic”?
Most importantly, the idea that you have to own an LBD is part of a larger myth about closet “essentials” that are supposedly one size fits all. The reality is, style is deeply personal. The “must haves” list isn’t a rulebook, it’s a suggestion and I think many people forget that. You don’t need to own every iconic piece to be stylish or put together. Sometimes, skipping the “universal” essentials frees you to discover what truly fits your taste and lifestyle.
So if you haven’t found the perfect little black dress yet, don’t stress. Maybe it’s not necessary for you. Maybe your wardrobe and your style will be stronger without it.
However, I do have a contender for a Little Black Dress but Im still unsure…
#2 “Neutral Tops”- White and Gray
If you’ve read my “Fashion Propaganda I’m Not Falling For “ essay, you probably already have a sense of where I stand on neutral basics…especially white tops.
I don’t own a single pure white tshirt, tank, or long sleeve. Not one. The only white top I own is my ‘69 baby tee from In Print We Trust, but even that gets way less love than my bright pink baby tee, which I reach for far more often.
What really fascinates me is the almost cult like obsession with finding the perfect white shirt or neutral top. People treat it like some holy grail, as if owning that flawless white tee will somehow solve all their outfit problems or elevate their style to a new level. I get it, white and gray are considered the ultimate quote on quote timeless, easy to match, and “safe” basics. But the truth is, these so called neutral staples often end up feeling bland, uninspiring, and worst of all, underused, at least in my wardrobe.
Be honest with yourself: how many white tees, tanks, or long sleeves are sitting in your closet, barely touched, while you repeatedly grab your black alternatives? I see this all the time. People swear by these neutral pieces, yet their everyday rotation tells a different story. Black tops have a certain effortless cool and versatility that white just can’t match, especially for me and many others who don’t vibe with stark whites against their skin tone or style preferences.
Owning a white or neutral top isn’t inherently wrong or pointless. it can definitely work for many. But the idea that these pieces are must haves for everyone? That’s where I push back.
Speaking of neutrals, I want to share what my version of “neutral” colors looks like. The only “neutral basics” I truly wear are black, brown, red, light blue, and navy. Yes, red counts as a neutral in my wardrobe because it’s classic, versatile, and brings a bold punch without feeling overpowering. Navy, in particular, is something I consider the most universal basic out there. For many people, black can feel too harsh or heavy, just like white, but navy hits that perfect balance; sophisticated, flattering, and effortlessly easy to pair with everything. So while white and gray dominate the “neutral” conversation, I’m living proof that you can build a functional, stylish wardrobe without them.
I’m doing just fine without a single pure light gray or white top, and honestly, I think you can too. The notion that everyone must own these staples is just another fashion myth I’m happy to challenge. Because what really matters is what works for you, what feels comfortable, flattering, and makes you excited to open your closet every day.
So before you go hunting for that “perfect white tee,” take a step back and reflect on what you genuinely wear and love.If you really need it because your personal style might thrive more on color, contrast, and texture none of which require that elusive, flawless white top.
#3 Linen Trousers For Summer
Linen trousers have become one of those items that seem to earn immediate respect. It’s like the moment someone owns a pair, they’ve unlocked a higher level of summer dressing, polished, put together, Pinterest approved. I see them constantly recommended in capsule wardrobe checklists, YouTube hauls, and style guides titled things like 10 Pieces Every Woman Needs For Summer. And to be fair, I get the appeal: they’re light, breathable, and they strike that balance between effortlessness and elegance.
But here’s the thing: I’ve never owned a single pair. Not once. And it’s never really felt like a gap in my wardrobe.
In the summer, I gravitate toward denim shorts, my favorite black capris, mini skirts, or yes even just my jeans. I’m fully aware that jeans in the heat isn’t everyone’s idea of comfort, but I know what I like, and I dress accordingly. My choices are practical, comfortable for me, and most importantly, true to my personal style. That matters more to me than following a seasonal “must have” list.
I think part of the push behind linen trousers is tied to a very specific kind of aesthetic ideal; think crisp, neutral wardrobes, sun drenched European summers, and an air of effortless sophistication, alas the ‘Sophia Richie’s” They look like they belong to someone who drinks iced matcha and has their life perfectly together. But that doesn’t mean they automatically belong in your life. Just because something photographs beautifully doesn’t mean it’s aligned with your day to day needs.
If you’ve read my Pinterest Spring/Summer 2025 Tour post, you already know the type of summer girl I am. specific silhouettes, colors, a little nostalgia, things that make me feel something. Linen trousers just don’t naturally fit into that picture,
just yet.
And sure, maybe one day I’ll invest in a great pair. Maybe when I’m older, or if I come across a pair, I’ll give them a go. But for now? I don’t feel their absence. They aren’t a void in my closet. I’ve never stood in front of my clothes thinking, “If only I had linen pants, I could make this outfit work.” That moment has never come and probably won’t for a while.
And that’s kind of the whole point of this essay: there are things that are popular, useful, and maybe even universally loved, but that doesn’t make them universally necessary. If something doesn’t suit your style, your life, or your preferences, you’re allowed to let it go no matter how many influencers or blogs swear by it.
#4 Any Form of Long Maxi Skirt (Pencil, Aline, Flouncy)
You know the ones: the pencil skirt, the breezy linen maxi, the structured a line maxi. The long skirt in all its forms has been handed the “closet essential” crown so many times that at this point, it almost feels irresponsible not to own one. Open any capsule wardrobe video or minimalist Pinterest board, and there it is, styled five ways with ballet flats, tall boots, a blazer, or a knit tank. It’s practically a rite of passage into “elevated” adulthood.
And yet? I’ve never owned one. Not a single long skirt lives in my wardrobe.
Now, this isn’t some grand rebellion. I’ve just… never craved one? I’ve never been standing in front of my closet thinking, “Ugh, if only I had a maxi skirt, this would all come together.” That moment has literally never happened.
And here’s where I might lose a few of you, but I’m going to say it anyway: I feel like long skirts age me. I know, I know, please don’t come for me. I’m not saying they’re frumpy or that there’s anything wrong with aging (obviously), and I definitely don’t believe in strict rules about dressing for your age. But when I put one on? It just flattens everything about my outfit. It’s not that I look older, but kind of? Like the energy is off. The vibe disappears.
And I’ve tried! I’ve tried on a silky black maxi, a pleated ankle length one, a crisp cotton option that everyone swears by and each time, it just felt like I was playing dress up in someone else’s clothes. They might work on me technically, but they don’t work for me.
The thing is, I’m not against long skirts as a concept. I’ve seen them styled beautifully. They look stunning on so many people, feminine, sleek, effortless. But there’s a huge difference between admiring something on others and needing to own it yourself. And I think that difference gets really blurred when something becomes so widely accepted as “timeless.” (I hate that word)
I’m not here to say the long skirt is a scam. It’s not. It’s just not for me. And the more I embrace that, the more intentional and authentic my wardrobe feels. So no, you won’t find a maxi skirt in my closet and I’m thriving just fine without one.
#5 Loafers
There’s no denying loafers have earned their rightful place in the modern wardrobe. They’re versatile, classic, and almost always pop up on those lists of “closet essentials” , the kind of shoe that’s supposed to effortlessly pull any outfit together with a polished finish. The kind of shoe stylists rave about for its mix of structure and ease, the perfect bridge between casual and formal.
And yet, despite all the hype and adoration, I’ve never owned a single pair. And it’s not because I think loafers are overrated or unfashionable… on the contrary, I actually love how they look on other people. But I just haven’t felt the need to add them to my own rotation.
For me, ballet pumps have always been the go to shoe. They give me everything I want: a classic, easy to wear, and quietly elegant vibe that feels completely at home with my style. When I’m leaning into a softer, more traditionally “feminine” look, I want to embrace it fully, not temper it with contrast, but let it shine through in every detail. That’s why I reach for ballet pumps or sometimes my beloved 90s inspired pointed boots, shoes that feel like an extension of the mood I’m going for.
Now, I see the trend: today’s style scene is obsessed with juxtaposition, the blending of “masculine” and “feminine”, structured and soft, loafers and dresses, sneakers and skirts. It’s a styling formula that’s undeniably cool, fresh, and creative. When done well, it breathes new life into classic silhouettes and offers a way to express complex, layered personalities through clothes. Loafers, in particular, have become a key player in this movement, offering a more “masculine” sleek, polished counterpoint to softer outfits.
But here’s where my personal take diverges: I find beauty in commitment. Rather than elevating a look with contrasting elements, I prefer to dive headfirst into a vibe and own it completely. So instead of pairing a feminine dress with loafers or trainers, I opt for kitten heels, ballet pumps, or those sharp 90s boots . shoes that don’t just complement the outfit but amplify its spirit. It’s about fully inhabiting the mood you’re creating rather than hedging your bets.
I want to be clear though, im not invalidating juxtaposition as a styling tool, nor am I invalidating owning loafers, I just feel like Loafers are ballet pumps but in a different font. Why own to almost similar things, when I know i’ll always go for the ballet pumps?
The Biggest Scam In Fashion is... Fashion.
Fashion loves to sell us the illusion of control; timeless staples, must have trends, the perfect capsule wardrobe… but the truth is, we’re all just playing into a system designed to keep us consuming.
#6 Strappy Sandals, Clogs, “Summer Footwear”
I don’t own any kind of elevated sandal, no clogs, no espadrilles, no sleek strappy heels. The only sandal like shoe I own is a pair of cork soled black flip flops. If I want coverage, I reach for sneakers or ballet pumps. If I want something open, I go straight to the flip flops. There’s no in between for me, and honestly, I don’t feel like anything is missing.
Don’t get me wrong, I’ve admired my fair share of “nicer” sandals. The ARKET leather heeled beige sandals? Stunning. Sculptural, sleek, elevated, they’re everything I should love. But deep down, I know I’d never wear them beyond maybe a photo or two. The thought of walking through the city with that much foot exposed and a thin heel beneath me is nightmare fuel. As much as I love the idea of an elevated summer sandal, I just can’t bring myself to bite the bullet not when I know it won’t get real wear.
Now you might argue, “Well, those ARKET heels are trendy, not a true staple.” But I’d say they actually fit squarely into the larger category that’s always marketed to women: the elevated summer shoe. There’s always some version of it, something strappy, breezy, elegant. Something that promises to make you look more grown, more chic, more “together.” But for me, they’re just flip flops in a different font. Slightly taller, a bit more refined, but fundamentally the same concept. And if I already have a version that works for me; one that I actually wear, do I really need the fancier one just for the aesthetic?
Honestly, no. I could buy them just to admire them, but admiration isn’t reason enough to bring something into my wardrobe. Not if I’m too scared or too uncomfortable to wear it. The beauty is real, but so is the practicality gap. And that matters more.
#7 Bodysuits
Bodysuits are often considered a modern essential, praised for how sleek and put together they make an outfit look. And in theory, I get it. They give that crisp, always tucked in silhouette that doesn’t shift or bunch throughout the day. But for me personally, they’ve just never felt right, not in terms of practicality, and not in terms of aesthetics either.
Let’s start with the obvious: they’re kind of a pain. The bathroom situation alone is enough to make me skip them altogether. It might sound like a small inconvenience, but when you’re going about your day, comfort and ease matter, and bodysuits simply don’t offer that for me.
Beyond the functionality, I also just don’t love how they look on me. I know they create a smooth, fitted line, but that silhouette isn’t something I gravitate toward. I’m someone who prefers a bit more length in my tops, pieces that either fall below the waist, skim over the hips, or cut off just at that sweet spot where the waistband of my jeans begins. I very rarely feel the need to tuck anything in, unless it’s a classic button-down and even then, it’s more about structure or styling variety than necessity. I know the silhouette I like, and I tend to stick to what flatters my proportions.
Speaking of proportions, I’ve thought a lot about how different shapes and lines work on the body. Every person has a unique balance of vertical and horizontal elements, some lean more into length, others into width, and some, like me, are fairly balanced. I do have curves, which gives me a little more visual width, and over time I’ve learned that I feel best when my outfits add length to my frame. That’s where longer tops and carefully chosen cuts come in, they help me build those vertical lines that make me feel more confident and aligned in my style.
And bodysuits? They just don’t do that for me. Whether it’s mid rise, low rise, or high waisted denim, the effect is always a bit too cropped or condensed. It’s not a silhouette I enjoy seeing on myself, and more importantly, it’s not one I miss. I haven’t craved a bodysuit in years, literally the last time I wore one , was probably in middle school.
So while I completely understand why bodysuits are a staple for many, they’re not something I feel is missing from my wardrobe. They’re simply not aligned with how I like to dress, or how I like to feel in my clothes. And honestly, knowing that, knowing what shapes, lengths, and silhouettes actually work for me has made getting dressed a lot more intuitive.
Closet Essentials I Do Own (Quickfire)
1. Sneakers
I wear all my sneakers into the ground. I have one main pair, New Balance 530s; white, chunky, and perfect. I’m a chunky sneaker girl through and through. The only slim ones I own are actual tennis shoes for when I play tennis.
2. Jeans
Yes, I own jeans. I stick to what flatters me: baggy straight leg, mid rise flares, and bootcuts. Mostly medium to dark washes, with one light wash baggy pair in rotation.
3. Utility + Chic Boots
I’ve had my Doc Martens since high school, great for grip and winter weather. Not my dream toe shape, but super practical. For chic options, I own one pair of pointed black Gabor boots and one pointed brown pair from Urban Outfitters (secondhand, of course).
4. Button Down Shirts
I have the classics; a black and a blue one, both slightly oversized. I wear them as layering pieces. But I also have 2000s style button downs, more fitted and cropped( which I wear way more often because they align better with my personal style)
5. Black Mini Skirt
Technically a skort, which I love because I don’t have to worry about flashing anyone. Thick fabric, great fit, and secondhand from Zara via Vinted.
6. Staple Everyday Bag
I’m a bag girl, so of course I have options. but the essential is of course a black hobo style leather bag; big enough for school, practical enough for everyday.
7. Trench Coat
I own one trench, the Bella Hadid x About You one I got during my internship. It’s a classic cut and perfect for London weather. I’m currently on the hunt for a navy one to replace the vintage one I had to part with.
8. Blazers
Two and done: a tailored black blazer and an oversized very gray one. I don’t need more, they cover both bases, structured and slouchy.
9. Baseball Caps
I own two: one white, one camo. That’s enough for me. I’m not big on headwear, but when I need it, I’m covered.
10. Belts
All secondhand because of the better quality, usually real leather. I recently thrifted a Paloma Wool belt that I’m excited to style. I also have classic black and brown belts that go with everything.
11. Elegant Flat Shoe
My black Geox ballet pumps are everything. Rubber sole, super comfortable, and a great alternative to the Repetto look. Chic and wearable.
12. Rain Boots
One trusty pair: black Viking rain boots. Sleek, minimal, waterproof. What more could you need?
13. Cardigan
I’m not a big cardigan person, but I do own one, very dark gray, basic, from H&M just in case the outfit calls for it.
So What Now?…
Once you’ve figured out what actually is essential to you, it becomes easier to build a wardrobe that’s not just functional, but also genuinely fulfilling. Essentials, after all, are supposed to give you a foundation, to have a reliable list of pieces that support your everyday life. But the hard part? It’s not identifying what could be essential. It’s figuring out what isn’t essential for you personally. And that only comes with time, trial, and error.
I didn’t land here overnight. I’ve been playing dress up since I was a child, but I started becoming conscious about my personal style in high school. Back then, I wore everything; high waisted jeggings, crop tops, skinny jeans, you name it. I experimented with trends, shapes, and aesthetics. Now that I’m 22, I’m lucky to have a deeper understanding of myself and the kind of style I want to pursue. It’s always evolving, and I know my taste will continue to change as I get older. But having that direction, even if it’s a loose one, is such a privilege.
That said, it’s still difficult. There’s no shortage of voices; blogs, TikToks, fashion editors, telling you what you should buy. And for people who aren’t necessarily passionate about fashion, it’s easy to follow those rules blindly. But even then, they might still feel unsatisfied with their wardrobe. I get that, and that’s what I’m trying to break down with this piece, for people who love fashion and for people who don’t really care about it at all.
I know I’m young. And I know there’s this lingering stigma that if you’re in your early twenties, you can’t be offering advice almost like you haven’t lived long enough to know anything. But you don’t know what someone’s lived through. Just because someone’s younger than you doesn’t make their words any less valid. You don’t have to agree with me. You don’t have to follow me. You have agency over your own life. I’m simply offering a different lens, an outlet if you will.
If you want to take something from this, amazing. If not, that’s okay too.
Once you’ve built your foundation, then comes the fun part: bringing in those special pieces that may not be “essentials,” but feel essential to you. Like, yes I listed the essential boots I wear all the time, but I also own multiple pairs of cowboy boots. Why? Because I love them. They’re not on anyone’s capsule list, but they’re a huge part of my style. That’s the beauty of finding your rhythm. You build from what’s useful, then sprinkle in what makes your wardrobe yours.
You’re allowed to opt out of what’s popular. You’re allowed to not need what’s considered “universal.” You’re allowed to build your style around what makes you feel something.
Because the truth is: what’s essential is whatever brings you closer to yourself.
And if you're not there yet, that’s okay. You’re on your way.
If you’re curious about whats hanging in my actual closet you can take a look at it downloading the
app, its free where you can see every item I own, and even style me(yes, for free). If you want to shop the pieces I’ve talked about in this article or find similar ones, you can also check out my ShopMy. It’s just getting started, but I’ve already listed a few staples and favorites mentioned here.xoxo,
Daughter Of Discourse
P.S. No shade at all to the British Vogue article or the writer behind that piece that I used as the cover image for this essay, I actually appreciate the effort and intention that goes into content like that, it's just important to remember that not every list will resonate with every person, and that’s okay. What works for one wardrobe might not work for another. This is just me offering a different perspective.
MY YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Iambambi_777
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Yes to all of this! I found a beige trench coat in a thrift store yesterday but didn’t love how it looked on me. I wound up buying a short red raincoat instead, but it felt like I was resisting a screaming chorus of fashion bloggers saying that a neutral trench is a “closet staple.”