I subscribed to that early 2000s “more is more” mindset in high school and even through college. My closet was brimming with clothes, shoes, and accessories—although I hardly wore half of them.
Fast-forward to a decade of working as a fashion editor, surrounded by racks and samples every single day, and things look very different. Now, I’m ruthless about what stays in my closet. For one, I live in New York City, where closet space is scant. And second, the sheer anxiety of too many choices sends me into a spiral. My days are packed with decisions; my weekday or weekend outfit doesn’t need to be another labored one.
I’ve also settled into a very specific uniform—one that includes precisely zero jeans (seriously, not a single pair) but leans hard on the power of excellent basics. I know “basics” can sound painfully dull, but let’s be honest: they’re the true backbone of a great wardrobe. We’re talking black tailored trousers, blazers, wool knits, T-shirts, cardigans, and statement coats. I round it all out with some fun accessories—like a cheeky Tabi loafer or a sculptural dangling earring.
Of course, I’m still a sucker for the occasional new thing (especially if it’s a shoe). Working in fashion, there’s no shortage of fresh temptations. But these days, if I bring something in, it better earn its keep.
My foolproof outfit formula for weekdays and weekends is all about versatile separates: an oversized blazer, black trousers that work for any occasion, and streamlined accessories that pair with everything.
(Image credit: Courtesy Sara Holzman)
So when the Marie Claire team started yapping about weekend dressing—specifically, “What do you wear off the clock?”—it hit me: I don’t really differentiate between my weekend and weekday wardrobes. Granted, I have a job encouraging personal style over corporate dress codes. But even if you work in a more traditional office, so many pieces today can (and should!) be worn any day of the week—you don’t need an entirely separate closet for your Saturday brunch. As Marie Claire editor-in-chief Nikki Ogunnaike pointed out, you can wear the same sweatshirt to Pilates that you throw on over a blazer at work. It all comes down to how you style it.
The trick is to keep everything cohesive, easy to layer, and versatile enough to carry you from Monday morning meetings to picking up your kid at the first in a series of weekend birthday parties and corralling them onto the next. (Or, chaperoning a teenager to their endless sporting events if you’re executive editor Andrea Stanley.) If an item can’t do double, or triple, duty, it’s probably not worth the precious closet space—especially not in this one.
So ahead, find a few key pieces you need to meet every highly specific event on your schedule, with outfit inspiration that can work every day of the week.
The Basics You Need, 7 Days a Week
(Image credit: Future)
The undisputed hero of your closet is the perfect white or cream T-shirt. On Monday, tuck it into high-waisted trousers, layer on a sharp blazer, and ground the look with structured loafers. By Saturday, loosen up with relaxed-fit pants (or those favorite trendy jeans, if you’re the denim type) and fresh sneakers. If you invest in a really good one, you’ve got a forever tee that works as hard as you do and then lounges as lavishly as you deserve.
Massimo Dutti Flowing Suede Leather Blazer
The Row Nadina Oversized Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt
Stuart Weitzman Lottie Penny Loafers
Theory Pleated Casual Pants
Nili Lotan Belt in Dark Brown With Antique Brass
Cos Studio Bowling Bag – Leather
(Image credit: Future)
A great coat isn’t just outerwear—it’s essential. On weekdays, button it up over tailored separates for a sculptural look. Wear it casually over joggers and a sweater with a pop of color on the weekend. You can effortlessly shift the vibe of your outfit with minimal extra effort.
Max Mara Wool Cocoon Coat
Marant Étoile Lenza Open-Knit Cotton-Blend Sweater
Blazé Milano Fox High-Rise Straight Pants
Savette Symmetry 19 Leather Shoulder Bag
Madewell Logaan Aviator Sunglasses
Ancient Greek Sandals Brown ‘the Slipper’ Slippers
(Image credit: Future)
The button-down is the quiet foundation piece for your seven-day-a-week closet. Layer it under a textured sweater to bridge the gap between busy weekdays and relaxed weekends. Pair it with a tailored blazer and kitten heels for a work-ready look that channels Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s style agenda.
Alex Mill Jo Shirt in Sammy Stripe
Loulou Studio Cashmere Drop-Shoulder Turtleneck Sweater
Wardrobe.NYC Low-Rise Wide-Leg Wool Pants
Jil Sander Pearl-Detail Drop Earrings
ALAÏA Click E/w Small Textured-Nubuck Shoulder Bag
(Image credit: Future)
A good knit anchors your look and can be the ultimate styling chameleon. During the week, layer it under (or over) a blazer and pair it with trousers and your button-down. When the weekend rolls around, throw it casually over leggings, capris, or bike shorts for running errands or Pilates class.
Zara Bib Collar Poplin Shirt
&Daughter Argyle Wool Sweater
St. Agni Adjust Pleated Pinstriped Wool-Blend Wide-Leg Pants
Mango Jacket With Mandarin Collar and Jewel Buttons – Women | Mango Usa
Toteme 65mm Leather Mules
Khaite Audrey Haircalf Clutch
(Image credit: Future)
This relaxed blazer is a study in understated versatility. On workdays, pair it with a knit and pencil skirt. When the weekend arrives, drape it casually over your favorite hoodie or sweatshirt with leggings and sneakers—the union of structured and relaxed feels a little fun and unexpected.
Kallmeyer Gemini Pinstriped Wool-Twill Blazer
&Daughter Checkered Sweater Vest
The Row Indira Lace-Trim Rib Midi Pencil Skirt
Jil Sander Gold-Tone and Resin Earrings
Prada Medium Leather Top-Handle Bag With Padlock
Toteme Leather Flip Flop Kitten Heels
