Have you ever wanted to buy something but then the thought of potentially having to return it made you think twice or, even worse, not buy it at all? Same. As a fixed shopper (meaning I do less browsing and more straight-to-the-point purchasing), I have deemed certain pieces as "never-fails" that I will very rarely return. These are the pieces I know will work every time, and I have zero hesitation in buying them.
It's a dynamic strategy that I have developed over the years, and fortunately, I have finally perfected it. And trust me—it took some serious trial and error, but it was worth it. To understand the pieces that do work, think of styles you continuously wear year after year and pieces that can err on the minimalist side yet can also be dressed up. Buying both seasonal trends and core staples and knowing that they will never be returned has become a serious shopping art in my life. From trendier pieces like cutout dresses and split-hem pants to evergreen essentials like stackable rings and oversize shirting, these are the 12 recommended styles that are completely return-proof.
Cutout Dress
I've learned that cutouts will always be flattering.
Simple yet elegant.
The ultimate versatile cutout dress.
Matching Knit Set
Buying a matching set makes you feel like you got three fresh outfits with just two pieces. Wear the pieces together when you're low on time to get ready, and pair the separates with other items when you're feeling creative. Plus, the stretch in knits makes it more likely the items will fit, which translates to fewer returns. This set's on-trend '90s column skirt is definitely calling my name.
Shop the matching Mollie Knit Midi Skirt ($135).
This set comes in brown and black too.
Who said your matching set had to be boring?
Shop the matching Wendy Wavy Ribbed Skirt ($135).
The texture!
If I buy this sweet set, do you think spring will come early?
Shop the matching Embroidered Knit Top ($40).
Stacking Rings
Stackable rings are pieces that will always add to your wardrobe; therefore, there is no point in returning them.
Keep in mind that strategic buys don't have to be boring.
Soft Leather Tops and Jackets
The last three winters, I have gravitated to soft leather tops and jackets—they're on-trend and extremely comfortable.
The perfect example of a piece that can be styled more casual or more glam.
Split-Hem Pants
An essential.
If you don't own these yet, this is your sign.
Platform Shoes
No matter the occasion, a platform can always work.
May I offer comfortable, everyday loafers?
Truly evergreen shoes.
Sherpa Jacket
This one really has surprised me—it's the ultimate layering piece that just works.
A part of the strategy is to start investing in fun colors once you know you like a style!
Blazer Dress
Not all blazers are a strategic buy, but blazer dresses are.
You just can't go wrong with a pale-pink blazer dress.
Large, Structured Clutch
Whether you're headed to a lunch meeting or a night out, the oversize, structured clutch has been proven to be a great go-to.
A more casual style.
Oversize Poplin Shirt
Oversize poplin shirts have endless potential.
This style never warrants a return.
Light Wide-Leg Trousers
When shopping for a pant style I know I won't return, I always go for wide-leg trousers in a light colorway.
The perfect neutral trousers do exist.
When you aren't in the mood for jeans, these are the answer.
White Sneakers
Everyone has their go-to white sneakers.
There will never be a day I return low-top white sneakers.
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