Classic Wardrobe Staples with Lois Mills: Timeless Fashion That Never Goes Out of Style
- Lois Mills
- Sep 8, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 23, 2024
Hello everyone! Welcome back to Silver and Sensational.
Today, we're talking about something near and dear to my heart: timeless clothing staples. These are the pieces I believe every woman should invest in because they never go out of style, and with proper care, they'll last for decades. Let’s dive right in!

1. A Classic Black Skirt
I want to start with one of my absolute favorite pieces—a black cashmere skirt with leather trim I bought on my honeymoon in 1978. This skirt is from Gucci in Rome, and I still wear it today. It’s so timeless that you wouldn’t know it was bought over 40 years ago. Classic pieces like this, made of high-quality fabric, are worth the investment because they last forever and never go out of style.
2. The Pencil Skirt
Another essential is a pencil skirt. Whether in black, navy, or dark gray, a pencil skirt is always flattering and versatile. I have one that’s a stretchy knit, making it comfortable while maintaining that chic, timeless look. It can be worn with anything from flats to high heels, and it works with a variety of tops—from a casual t-shirt to a more formal blouse.
3. The White Button-Down Shirt
A white button-down shirt is another timeless piece. I personally have a few, and I rotate them regularly. My favorites are from Vince and Cezanne, but no matter the brand, a crisp white shirt always adds a polished touch to any outfit. A little care is needed for these, though, as white tends to yellow over time. I like to soak mine in OxiClean to keep them bright, but even with the best care, they’ll need replacing after a while.
4. Accordion-Pleated Skirts
I adore pleated skirts! One of my staples is a charcoal gray wool accordion-pleated skirt that I’ve had for years. It’s feminine yet serious and works with just about anything—from sweaters and boots to more delicate flats. And remember, if accordion pleats don’t suit your body, there are always alternatives like A-line or box-pleated skirts.
5. Trousers
You can’t go wrong with a great pair of trousers. I have wide-leg and bootleg pants that I’ve owned for decades. Investing in well-tailored trousers in both dark and light colors is essential. Proper tailoring is key here—whether you need a hem adjustment or a fit that flatters your figure, making friends with a local tailor is a must!
6. Blazers
Blazers are a must-have for that clean, tailored, and classic look. My Gucci navy blue blazer from the late ’80s is still in perfect condition, and I pair it with anything from jeans to skirts. Whether you prefer single or double-breasted styles, a good blazer adds sophistication to any outfit.
7. Cashmere Sweaters
Lastly, a cashmere sweater is a luxury that’s worth the splurge. Cashmere pieces last for years with the right care. Look for sweaters made of wool or cashmere to ensure longevity. I recommend investing in no-rinse soap for hand-washing these delicate items. After washing, lay them flat to dry, and make sure to defuzz them regularly to keep them looking fresh.
Caring for Your Classics
Maintaining your timeless pieces is crucial to their longevity. Here are a few of my favorite care tips:
Hand Wash your delicate items like cashmere with no-rinse soap.
Defuzz Sweaters with a defuzzer, particularly under the arms or where your bags rub against them.
Tailor Your Pants to ensure they fit perfectly across your hips and waist.
Keep Whites Bright by soaking them in OxiClean and replacing them as needed.
Remember, investing in high-quality pieces that never go out of style will save you money in the long run. These are the items that will stay in your wardrobe for decades. Spend less on trends and focus your budget on timeless classics.
I hope this has given you some inspiration to start building or refining your classic wardrobe. Feel free to share your own wardrobe staples in the comments!
I share my most favorite pieces in my most recent Silver and Sensational video. Be sure to watch it and share with me your favorite wardrobe staples!
Until next time, stay Sensational!
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