Tessa Faye O'Connell is a contributor known for her work at various fashion houses, specializing in media and public relations, currently working at Coach as its global PR director. She's a mom of two, working to expand her influence in the fashion space through styling while also just making it out the door on time.
When tasked with creating a basic capsule wardrobe to talk about, I was overwhelmed, thinking, How could I possibly fit everything needed into one neat write-up? That was until I realized that wasn’t the point—the point was to have a base of pieces that could mix and match with all things in your closet as the foundation for getting dressed. Sometimes you just need an anchor item to pull something together, no matter the season. There are pieces that I’ve invested in and now rely on that always serve me.
And the bonus is they almost all mix and match with each other or can be layered with other pieces in my closet or new ones that I bring in. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to realize that’s the key question I ask myself when shopping: Does it fit with the foundation of what you already own so you’ll actually wear it? I’m not saying I don’t love something fun, but I like to make sure I’ll actually wear it within the foundations of my wardrobe.
These pieces make the outfit formula easy so that if I’m in a rush (four days out of five I am), I can always come back to them and rely on them.
Leather Outerwear
It works when you want to dress up, dress down, or layer over something. I’ve been wearing black but eyeing chocolate leather styles to soften items.
Black and Blue Jeans
My denim must-haves: black denim (true black) and the perfect vintage blue pair. You can’t go wrong.
Trench Coat
This Rue Sophie trench I’ve been eyeing forever has become the best layer piece for everything. I’ve worn it with jeans and a kitten heel for something more polished but also over track pants to feel more put together. Size down for the best fit.
Gray Pullover
The gray pullover is anything but casual. You can wear it as a layering piece under a blazer or with jeans and sneakers on a rainy day. This one has been on rotation.
Denim Shirt or Jacket
A denim shirt or jacket just always works.
Black Pullover and Trousers
The basic mom work uniform is a black pullover and trousers. Always chic.
Shoes: Loafers, Low Heels, Sneakers, Chunky Boots
The ones on rotation constantly: Mini black Loeffler Randall heels, sneakers, Jamie Haller loafers, and the perfect chunky black boots.
Layering Pieces (Tees)
People hate to hear me say it, but I believe in investing in good layering pieces: baby tees that sit perfectly at the waist of your jeans or the slim-fit long-sleeve that is the perfect layer all winter long. It’s about washability, durability, and the fit. You can see me wearing one of these all week.
Midi to Long Skirt
Dress up a midi skirt with a jacket or dress down with a T-shirt.
Everyday Bag
I like something that easily slips over your shoulder but you can also throw into a work tote on the go. It elevates but doesn’t overdo it.
Button-Up Shirt
Don’t forget the perfect button-down shirt!
