What I Love This Week: Wear-Now-Wear-Later Wardrobe Basics
The end-of-season markdowns have landed, and I’ve been quietly sifting through the sales with a very specific goal in mind: finding those under-the-radar pieces that earn their keep long after the sale signs come down. Yes, there’s plenty of sparkle out there, but mixed in are some genuinely good basics, the kind of wardrobe workhorses that make everyday outfits feel easier, more pulled together, and a little more intentional, pieces that work across seasons and earn their place in a thoughtful wardrobe.
The Quiet Essentials Worth Picking Up Now
My sizes: Sweater Blazer – Petite Small, Jeans – 28
I’m quite impressed with this 100% cotton sweater blazer from Lands’ End. It’s as easy to wear as a cardigan, but has more structure. Several neutral colors available in Regular, Petite & Plus sizes. The Navy color I’m wearing is true mid-navy that works for most seasonal palettes. (It looks more purplish in this photo than IRL.) The ivory/navy stripe version is mighty cute too! The sleeves are slightly long for me, but easy to cuff or push up. Currently $53.97 with code SHIMMERING.
More Great Basics on Sale
Merino-Cashmere Cable Knit Tee – $206.50
Sweater tees & tanks have become season-spanning staples in my wardrobe. I just received this one from ME+EM, and LOVE it! (Size Small was a perfect fit.) Also available in grey.
I’ve purchased several sweaters from ME+EM over the years, and though they’re a splurge, the quality is outstanding.
Lightweight Cashmere V-Neck – $129.99
These lightweight cashmere sweaters from Banana Republic are well-reviewed and available in several gorgeous colors. They’re great for travel and can be worn now and well into spring in many climates.
I haven’t purchased this one, but have examined them in the store and was very impressed with the range of colors and feel of the fabric. The not-too-deep v-neck is also a plus!
Peruvian Cotton Blend Bateau Neck Sweater – $119.40
I’ve been eyeing this cotton blend pullover, and have on order. This “Dragonfly” color is a teal-leaning blue, which is in the Autumn palette, but I think Springs and some Summers & Winters could wear as well.
Winters, also check out “Ruby” and “Dahlia.” Summers, try “Myrtle.”
(Also love the set-in rather than dropped sleeves: a neater look & easier to layer!)
Classic Peacoat – $599.99
Some of you have mentioned that you prefer longer jackets, so I wanted to show you this Fleurette classic 100% wool peacoat in Regular & Petite sizes. It’s also available in Cream, Camel and Aubergine, though some colors have limited availability.
Water-resistant boots – $134.99
These sleek ankle boots get high marks for comfort and are also available in brown.
The smooth finish makes them a polished day-to-dinner option for travel!
Nylon Crossbody Bag – $118.80
I’ve had several requests lately for non-leather bags. I’m gathering more options that I’ll share soon. But in the meantime wanted to flag this cute nylon crossbody, currently 40% off. It’s small but mighty, with lots of interior organization. Great for travel or those days when you need to keep the essentials close at hand. Several colors/hardware options available.
End-of-season sales can be tempting, but I find they’re most useful when approached with a bit of intention. A well-chosen basic, especially one that fits beautifully and works across seasons, often delivers far more value than a trend piece that only feels right for a moment. If something here fills a genuine gap in your wardrobe, great. And if not, consider this a reminder that the best basics are always worth waiting for.
More Sales Worth Perusing
Madewell – Winter Event, up to 70% off
Talbots – Semi-annual Red Door Sale
Jenni Kayne – 25% off select items. Includes Oak Essentials skincare line…they recently sent me the Moisture Rich Balm to try, and I love it!
Evereve – Sale on Sale, up to 70% off
Alex Mill – Women’s sale
J.Jill – New Year’s Sale, extra 50% off sale items
Eileen Fisher – 40% off sale items
Nordstrom – Half-Yearly Sale, up to 60% off
Banana Republic – Winter Sale, up to 60% off
By Brian – up to 25% off all skincare, makeup, classes
J.Crew – 25% off full-price styles with code NEWYEAR
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I ordered this beauty yesterday from Theory in the gray version: https://www.theory.com/women/womens-sweaters-and-cardigans/diamond-weave-sweater-in-felted-wool-cashmere/P1111704_QDY.html. I am a light summer and appreciated that the lightest, most flattering gray was near my face. The “bark” option would be good for springs. Earlier this year, I ordered this sweater, https://www.theory.com/women/womens-sweaters-and-cardigans/cable-knit-sweater-in-felted-wool-cashmere/P0911726_A00.html. The v-neck allows me to wear softer colors near my face. Both sweaters are 90% wool, 10% cashmere. I have worn the v-neck three times so far and had a few minor pills under the arms where the most rubbing happens. And yes, I was minorly obsessed with gray this fall.
I looked at the Eileen Fisher sweater and noted that the “myrtle” would be an excellent summer color. Unfortunately, the last Theory sweater was also the last of my budget for now.
Happy 2026 Susan, and I am glad that you have not washed away!
Love the 12-pc capsule for cool palettes and wonder where can I find the royal blue trench? When I clicked on it, the one on the Pinterest was different ( raglan, unbelted….)
Thanks!!
Great picks! I have been eyeing the Nouvelle. Black and gunmetal? Be still my old goth dark winter heart! How many Lo & Sons baga are tii many? Lol
That cobalt blue sweater blazer is so good.
And how good does gold look on brown!
Greetje
Thanks, Greetje!
That little Lo & Sons bag is already sold out in the dark tan color. #$%@!
I love that Lo & Sons bag ~ wore it to and from and all over Spain. It’s roomy but lightweight. Just perfect for travel though I have started using it as an everyday bag as well.
I love the look and features of the Lo & Sons Nouvelle. The navy is sold out, but says it will restock in spring 2026. Joined the waitlist. Wonder if they will honor the sale price at that time. Great find if I can get it.
Thanks for the recommendation. I just ordered the boots from Nordstrom. They are something I have been looking for for a while.
Wishing you a happy 2026!