Image via Harper’s Bazaar
Two of our stylists turned 30 this past year and through all the excitement and celebrations we were inspired to craft a list of of the fashion staples a woman should have in her wardrobe before this pivotal age. By age 30, you’ve probably reached a more stable phase of your life and we think your wardrobe should follow suit. But, before you start shopping, make sure you do a thorough closet clean-out to rid your wardrobe of the pieces you no longer wear or reach for.
Intrigued? Read on for our list of the 10 essential wardrobe items you should acquire before you hit your thirties.
1. An Upgraded Work Bag
At this point in your life, you’re either at a good stage in your career or trying to advance it. Either way, it’s time to get serious about your professional wardrobe, which means upgrading your work bag. We love the Sac de jour by Saint Laurent, but anything structured in a neutral color (black, grey, navy, burgundy etc.) works as well. 
2. Quality Sunglasses
Your days of cheapie $10 sunglasses may not be over, but they probably should be. A pair of high quality, classic sunglasses will not only last for many years, they will also properly protect your eyes from the sun. We love Céline, Dior, and Oliver Peoples for well-made, flattering shades.
3. The Perfect Jumpsuit
A great jumpsuit can turn out to be the most versatile piece in your wardrobe. Layer a white blouse under one for work, pair it with strappy sandals for a cocktail event, or swap the sandals for sneakers for casual weekend vibes. Our favorite styles are sleeveless and usually black or navy.
4. A Silk Slip Dress
Just like the perfect black jumpsuit, a silk slip dress is another wardrobe work horse. With the growing number of weddings and other events you’ll be attending in your 30s, a beautiful, flattering slip dress is not only timeless, you’ll find it’s absolutely necessary.
5. Classic Jewelry
While we still recommend buying trendy jewelry on the cheap—when it comes to the classic styles—by 30, you should have the real thing. The perfect pair of gold hoops, a timeless set of diamond studs, or a few layered bangles—you’ll definitely want to invest in these pieces since you’ll be wearing them for years to come.
6. A Tuxedo Jacket
Every woman 30 and over should have an expertly tailored black tuxedo jacket. Use it to dress up a simple pair of jeans and a tee or take a lesson from Christine Centenera and wear yours over a flouncy cocktail dress—a tuxedo look is truly the ideal blend of edgy and chic. 
7. A Chic Trench Coat
The past few seasons in fashion have given us many new and improved versions of the classic trench coat. Turning 30? It’s time for an update. We recommend sticking to the standard color ways—khaki, black, and navy—this way you’ll be sure your investment will stand the test of time. 
8. A White Silk Blouse
A well-fitting white blouse is the epitome of chic. It looks just as good with a pair of jeans as it does with a pencil skirt, and it’s the perfect baseline for a day to night outfit. Our one piece of advice is to make sure your whites stay white, replace your blouse once you start to see any discoloration.
9. A Leather Biker Jacket
If you don’t own the perfect leather biker jacket yet, make sure you invest in one stat. This trusty piece of outerwear will be your go-to for Spring and Fall and it’s the chicest way to toughen up a feminine outfit. Brands like IRO, Saint Laurent, and Laer make killer biker jackets season after season. 
10. A Versatile Clutch
Now that your calendar is probably packed with weddings, engagement parties and other events frequented by the 30+ crowd, you’ll need a go-to clutch that matches with most of your cocktail attire. We recommend black with minimal to no hardware. Céline currently makes one of our favorites.
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