I Like Refreshing My Wardrobe Without Buying Anything New—9 Looks to Try

In 2023, I am committed to making financially responsible decisions. Now, this is tricky for someone who loves fashion as much as I do, but some of my other loves happen to be real estate and travel, which requires me to think a bit whenever I'm making an impulse purchase. While I'm saving for long-term financial goals and experiences, I'm excited to still be looking just as chic as everyone else by making as many outfits as I can with what I already own.

Basically, I'm becoming a capsule wardrobe woman. While I'll still allow myself to shop for the items that I know I'll love for years to come or will look great for my vacation, minimizing my shopping has already paid off in my savings account. Over the past two months, I've collected a library of outfits that I can easily copy with what I already have. Below, find the looks that I've curated, and feel free to shop these items because you're guaranteed to get the cost per wear that you deserve out of them.

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Sweater + Denim Jacket + Tailored Pants
(Image credit: @fakerstrom )

This look single-handedly convinced me to buy a new denim jacket. Perhaps something oversize will be next in line for me. Effortlessly throwing a sweater right on top is an excellent plan.

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Turtleneck + Belt + Bootcut Jeans
(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

I need a new way to wear one of the many blazers in my closet, and adding a belt on top sounds like the perfect idea. Black jeans will make the look feel instantly more casual.

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Cardigan + Trench Coat + Classic Trousers
(Image credit: @erinoffduty)

I've been dreaming about this outfit ever since I saw it for the first time. It's timeless, elegant, and so fun. Plus, who doesn't have a tan cardigan and a trench coat? 

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Off-the-Shoulder Top + Knee-Length Skirt + Lug-Sole Boots
(Image credit: @champagnemani)

For a more updated look that's still centered around basics, I love the idea of pairing an off-the-shoulder top with a knee-length skirt. It gives the ultimate vintage vibes.

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Cotton Poplin Dress + Gold Hoops + Retro Sneakers
(Image credit: @jennabey)

I am already dreaming about a summer spent in cotton poplin dresses, but I love the idea of wearing one now. Adding a pair of retro sneakers gives it the cool-girl vibe that I'm after.

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Knit Vest + Miniskirt + Ballet Flats
(Image credit: @leiasfez)

Something about this preppy look has officially won me over. A knit vest with a T-shirt is quite chic, especially when paired with Mary-Janes. My inner child has a big smile on her face.

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Leather Jacket + Straight-Leg Jeans + Boots
(Image credit: @josefinehj)

Vintage-looking leather jackets are currently ruling every fashion person's wardrobe. The best part is all you need is a pair of straight-leg jeans and boots to style it with. 

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Wool Coat + Pleated Skirt + Sheer Tights
(Image credit: @aida.bdji)

The chokehold that a pleated skirt has on me… The obsession is real. Pairing it with an oversize wool coat is second nature, especially this time of year.

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Bomber Jacket + Wide-Leg Jeans + Converse:
(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Bomber jackets are another fashion-person staple that is currently viral on the internet. When you have one of these, getting dressed in the morning just gets easier. This jacket is the perfect excuse to pull out your Converse.

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Up Next: Fashion People in New York and Paris Are Wearing Jeans With These 8 Things

Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, rollerblading through New York City traffic, or exploring the latest luxury vintage boutique.