6 Style Staples That Every Generation Seems to Agree On

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1648061294285-main

(Image credit: @thetennillelife_)

Fashion people are my guiding force, and that's a fact. I always look to what my favorite stylists, editors, influencers, and buyers are wearing to glean some inspiration on how to style the classics. I browse their feeds pretty regularly to stay up-to-date on their latest styling tricks and closet favorites, and while I was doing so recently, I came to a realization. There were a few trend-ish staples that they all seemed to own, no matter their style, location, or, most notably, age.

I noticed that there are a handful of pieces that seem to resonate with nearly every age group in my feed. We regularly hear from stylish ladies in their 50s and 60s, but the items I'm jotting down here are popular among everyone, from people in their 20s to people in their 60s (and probably beyond). Talk about timeless. If you're looking to fill your closet with long-lasting pieces, look no further than the six staples below. These are the definition of "buy now, wear forever" items, and if you don't believe me, just scroll on to see the proof.

Ahead, discover the six multigenerational fashion items that truly transcend age.

1. Classic Loafers

In terms of shoes, loafers stood out to me as being the most versatile of all the footwear staples. Flat shoes that are elevated and comfortable are hard to come by, but classic penny loafers seem to be the common thread that cuts through trends, personal style, and age.

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1648061563257-main

(Image credit: @venswifestyle)

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1648061081073-image

(Image credit: @leiasfez)

Shop:

2. Leather Jackets

A leather jacket is about as timeless as they come. I purchased my own biker jacket years ago, and it's since become one of the most beloved items in my closet. A great leather jacket just exudes an air of cool like no other. I'd suggest investing in a high-quality option you can wear for years to come.

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1647570342939-image

(Image credit: @greceghanem)

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1648053003553-image

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Shop:

3. Knit Sets

Knit sets may have become a stylish alternative to sweatpants during the height of the pandemic, but they've managed to settle into staple status. Given the plethora of colors, styles, and combinations, it's no wonder they're resonating well with plenty of audiences. 

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1647570342684-image

(Image credit: @greceghanem)

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1648053003019-image

(Image credit: @claire_most)

Shop:

4. Graphic Tees

While graphic tees might be considered a youthful fashion item, my research has proven otherwise. I found that women of every age group are fans of the laid-back staple, mostly opting to wear theirs with trousers and jeans.

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1647570342253-image

(Image credit: @yasminfurmie)

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1648053488749-image

(Image credit: @shhtephs)

Shop:

5. Structured Blazers

You probably saw this one coming. A structured blazer is the backbone of every fashion person's wardrobe. You're just guaranteed to always look good in one.

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1647570482483-image

(Image credit: @thetennillelife_)

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1648053488255-image

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Shop:

6. High-Top Sneakers

My mom and I own the same pair of Converse sneakers, and if I think about it, I'm sure half of all the women in my life also have at some point. The more I checked up on this, the more I realized that high-top sneakers, in general, are the one sneaker style that's pretty ageless.

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1647570341447-image

(Image credit: @yasminfurmie)

multi-generational-fashion-items-298657-1648053003999-image

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Shop:

Up next, see the 2022 trend that fashion people are ditching their jeans for.

Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.