In fashion, one thing always holds true: what’s old can feel new again. Think of the Y2K revival that stormed through social media not too long ago—low-rise jeans, butterfly clips, and tiny baguette bags suddenly everywhere once more. But here’s the thing: trends are fleeting. One season they’re hot, the next they’re gone. That’s why I’ve always believed in investing in pieces you truly love, pieces you’ll cherish for years and style endlessly in fresh ways.
If I’m going to spend my hard-earned money, it won’t be on something that sits in the back of my closet after one wear. Instead, I want clothing that works overtime—timeless staples that transcend the cyclical nature of fashion. Through my mid-to-late 20s and now into my 30s, that’s been my approach: buying items I know will stand the test of time.
One perfect example? A sweater set I purchased back in the fall of 2019.
A Keeper From the Start
I first spotted the set—a tiger-printed, grey-and-white beauty—on the H&M website, and it was love at first click. Into the cart it went, and I’ve never regretted that decision. The bold print stood out in a closet full of neutrals, yet the classic color palette ensured versatility. It was a keeper then, and it still is now, several years later.
That’s the thing about sweaters. They are endlessly reimagined each season—different cuts, weights, and embellishments—but the essence never changes. I’ll admit, I own more sweaters than one person truly needs. At some point, I realized I didn’t need another black crewneck just because it was slightly different from the one I already owned. Two or three variations? That’s more than enough.
But this particular set was unique. At the time, I didn’t own anything like it. And I knew immediately it would be the kind of piece I could wear again and again without it losing its charm.
The Versatility Test
Over the years, I’ve styled the sweater top and skirt both together and separately, reinventing them with new accessories for different moods and occasions. When worn as a set, it has that effortless, contemporary elegance. Worn apart, each piece pairs beautifully with closet basics I already own.
Case in point: New York’s winter this year has been unusually mild. With temperatures hovering in the in-between zone, I’ve often been able to forgo a jacket altogether. This sweater set is warm enough to handle those nights out, and it proved to be the perfect choice for our weekly date night recently.
I gave it new life by accessorizing differently: a pair of chic cap-toe pumps from Saks Fifth Avenue and my latest handbag find—an Amazon dupe of the iconic Jimmy Choo Bon Bon (which retails for nearly $4,700, while mine was a fraction of that price). The whole look felt elevated yet fresh, reminding me that restyling is sometimes all it takes to breathe new energy into a well-loved piece.
Shop Your Closet First
One of my steadfast style philosophies is to always shop your closet before shopping the stores. We so often underestimate how much versatility lies within what we already own. Adding a belt here, swapping shoes there, or introducing a new bag can completely transform an outfit.
Not only is this approach kinder to your wallet, but it’s also a more sustainable way to enjoy fashion. Reworking what you have reduces unnecessary consumption, which is good for the environment. And, if you live in a city like New York, where closet space is as precious as rent is high, being selective with purchases is essential. Every item has to earn its spot.
When I consider a new purchase, I always ask myself: Do I love it enough to wear it again and again? Can I style it at least three different ways? Do I actually have room for it? If the answer is no, it doesn’t come home with me.
Why Timeless Pieces Always Win
The truth is, the most satisfying pieces in my wardrobe are the ones that have lasted me through multiple seasons and countless outfit iterations. That tiger-printed sweater set is proof. It’s bold yet classic, practical yet stylish, and endlessly versatile.
Trends may tempt us, but there’s unmatched beauty in building a wardrobe of staples you’ll never grow tired of. Whether it’s a perfectly tailored blazer, a versatile skirt, or a sweater that surprises you with its staying power, these are the pieces that bring real joy to getting dressed.
So the next time you feel the itch to splurge on the newest micro-trend, pause. Check your closet. Chances are, you already have something you can restyle in a way that feels just as fresh. Fashion may be cyclical, but personal style—when rooted in timeless staples—will always feel current.
