I Just Did a Major Closet Clean-Out—These Are the 5 Pieces That Made the Cut

Saying I own a lot of wardrobe pieces would be an understatement. If I had a massive walk-in closet, it wouldn't be a problem, but I live in a one-bedroom apartment in New York City, where closet space is a luxury. Whether it's a pair of jewel-encrusted Manolo Blahnik pumps or a $15 skirt I thrifted on a random Tuesday, it's all stuffed in two narrow linen closets. Every time I opened the doors, items would come tumbling down, instantly turning my day sour. So I got to work.

I took a ruthless approach to decluttering, filling up five large donation boxes, including silk scarfs, designer jackets, and like-new shoes. It was difficult, to say the least, but if I hadn't worn an item within the past year, it was time to go—though five pieces weren't up for debate. Despite having a sea of clothing at my disposal, I repeatedly reached for the same items, wearing them until they were so worn out I had no choice but to replace them. Because I'm no gatekeeper, I'm sharing my wardrobe MVPs.

Flattering denim, versatile long-sleeve shirts, timeless handbags, and more made the cut, delivering elevated style time and again. Even better? Each piece is perfectly suited to fall, creating a well-rounded autumn wardrobe. Discover the five pieces that were nonnegotiable amid towers of shoes, racks of clothing, and shelves of handbags.

Quilted Jacket

I've owned the same quilted jacket for nearly five years. Its stitched pattern adds texture, and its puffed construction brings dimension. My favorite part? It's easy to throw on over a T-shirt at a moment's notice.

Light-Washed Wide-Leg Jeans

Wide-leg jeans are the Goldilocks of denim. They're not so fitted that they feel stiff, nor are they so baggy that they look oversize and messy. Instead, they strike the perfect balance, offering intentional tailoring and a leg-elongating look. A light-washed hue brings an effortless ease to the closet staple.

Lightweight Cashmere Long-Sleeve Shirt

My secret weapon for navigating crisp fall weather is a lightweight cashmere long-sleeve shirt. Wear it on its own on a mild day, or layer it under another top or jacket when you need extra warmth. I can even dress it up with a midi skirt just as easily as I can wear it casually with jeans.

Knee-High Black Boots

Few things are as trusty as my knee-high black boots. I wear them so often throughout fall that I inevitably need a new pair every few years, quite literally wearing them into the ground. They're one of those pieces that go with everything, from miniskirts and dresses to denim.

Quilted Flap Bag

Everybody deserves a quilted flap bag. Timeless and elegant, the style is practical enough to hold more than just the essentials. Elongated chain straps make it easy to sling over your shoulder, while its versatility makes it easy to dress up or down.