The algorithm is always at work, especially deciding what we are supposed to be wearing. Then come the trend reports and everyone from influencers to shop windows telling us the exact handful of pieces that are the only ones worth having. Here’s the thing: I’m not doing that.

The pieces I’m obsessed with right now aren’t being recycled across every mood board this season. They’re not grey loungewear or a timeless camel coat, both of which are fine, but why not go a little further? These are the pieces that have their own point of view. The kind of things that make you look put together without actually looking like you tried too hard. Honestly, a high compliment in the world of style and fashion. These six pieces have been living rent-free in my head, and I’m guessing at least of few of them are about to live in your closet.

Suede Jackets

I know I’m a leather jacket loyalist, but a suede jacket does something leather simply can’t. Leather is sharp and a little tough, while suede has a soft, almost effortless quality that makes it feel elevated but lived-in at the same time. A suede jacket is the type of piece that looks equally at home thrown over a slip dress as it does layered over a turtleneck and wide-leg trousers. The texture does all the work. Right now, I’m drawn to the warm cognac and deep olive tones that feel rich without screaming for attention. The silhouette matters too. Slightly cropped or hip-length keeps it modern without veering into more costume territory. If you’ve been sleeping on suede, it’s time to wake up.

Boat Neck Tops

The boat neck neckline is one of those quiet style moves that says a lot without saying anything at all. There’s a reason why it’s been a staple of French and Italian dressing for decades. It’s elegant, incredibly flattering across body types, and has an inherent chicness that a crewneck or v-neck can’t replicate. Whether it’s a fitted ribbed version in a neutral tone or a slightly oversized style, the boat neck top is effortlessly versatile. It works tucked into a pencil skirt, layered under the suede jacket you probably just bookmarked, or worn with the dark denim you’ll be hearing about later. It’s the kind of top that doesn’t compete with anything. It just makes everything look better.

Leather Pencil Skirts

The leather pencil skirt has had its moment, then another moment, and honestly, it’s just become a permanent fixture in my closet at this point. And, it should be. The way these skirts move is incredibly chic. Structured enough but with just the right amount of give that bridges the gap between polished and edgy without fully having to commit to either. Pair it with a relaxed knit and ankle boots for the perfect off-duty feel, or tuck in a classic button-down for something that could take you from a morning meeting straight through to dinner without missing a beat. The key is fit: it should skim, not squeeze. When it fits right, there’s almost nothing more elegant.

Black Kitten Heel Boots

I feel like the kitten heel has been having a redemption arc for a minute now, and I am here for it. The black kitten heel boot specifically hits a very specific sweet spot, especially for me. They are comfortable enough to actually wear, elevated enough to pull an entire outfit together, and interesting enough that they don’t just feel like a default choice. It’s not a chunky boot or a stiletto. It’s much more intentional. Ankle length or slightly above with a sleek, narrow silhouette is the move right now. They look incredible with midi skirts, they add a polished note to cropped trousers, and they do something special under a leather pencil skirt. If your shoe collection feels a little predictable, the black kitten heel boot just might be the answer. You’ll wonder why you waited.

Dark Wash Denim

I’ll be the first to admit I went through a period of exclusively wearing light denim. As a longtime dark denim lover, it was fun to feel a little cooler for a while, but lately I’ve been returning to dark wash. Dark wash denim is back, doing what it always has quietly done: making everything look more put-together with absolutely zero effort. A well-fitting dark wash jean - straight leg, wide leg, or even slim cut - reads dressed up in the best possible way. It’s the denim you wear when you don’t want to look like you've just tossed on jeans. Dress it up with heels and a blazer for an evening look, or keep it casual with a clean white tee and loafers. Dark wash denim plays well with everything and asks for very little in return. It’s the most low-maintenance high-impact thing in your wardrobe. Don’t underestimate it.

Extra Long Coats

It might seem odd for someone from the desert to be obsessed with extra-long coats, but it’s the fact that I never get to actually wear one. Seeing someone walk down the street in an extra-long coat or in photos, it’s hard not to think they have their shit together. There is something undeniably commanding about a coat that grazes the ankles. It adds drama without being overly dramatic. It makes even the most thrown-together outfit underneath look good, which is exactly the kind of fashion magic we all chase. The longer, more relaxed topcoat silhouette is super interesting right now. Clean lines, minimal hardware, and no frills. In a deep charcoal, black, or even a rich chocolate brown, it becomes the kind of piece that functions almost like a signature. You just put it on, and everything else falls into place. The proportions may feel a bit intimidating at first, but just look at it.

Beyond the Basics

Here’s the thing about getting dressed well: it’s less about following exactly what’s trending and more about building a collection of pieces that feel like they were made for you specifically. The pieces on this list aren’t basics, but they aren’t fleeting trends either. They land somewhere in between. The type of pieces that have genuine staying power and bring something to the table beyond just existing in your wardrobe. Whether you pick up one or all six, the goal is the same: shop smart, trust your eye, and remember the best outfits are the ones that are unapologetically yours.

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