What’s the ‘Hero Piece’ in Your Closet?

Do you have a piece of clothing you always reach for, that makes you feel the most like yourself? Curious about “hero” pieces, I asked six women what they wear the most…

Shoko Tatara
Occupation: Stay-at-home mom
Lives in: Indiana

“In 2019, I needed a small bag for a formal wedding, but I didn’t want to buy something that would work only for fancy events. This crossbody bag was perfect because it doubles as a simple clutch if you remove the strap. You can also wear it higher or lower on your body, depending on your outfit. I’ve now worn it to several weddings, to run errands, even on hikes!”

Corinne Fay
Occupation: Big Undies newsletter editor and Burnt Toast producer
Lives in: New Mexico

“This Target x Reese Blutstein denim shirt is perfectly broken in and just the right amount of baggy. It can be spruced up with a gold chain or dressed down with a baseball cap. I always feel like myself when I’m wearing it — relaxed, self-possessed and utilitarian. It’s no longer available at Target, but you can find it on Poshmark and eBay.”

Alisha Ramos
Occupation: Downtime newsletter editor
Lives in: Washington, D.C.

“I got the Henri blouse by Dôen during their Hand Me Dôen secondhand sale, and I wear it all the time. The semi-sheer fabric and delicate lace gives it a floaty, ethereal vibe. As a new mom, I often default to athleisure, but I’ve found that taking time to choose an outfit that reflects my personal style is an act of self-care.”

Mya Gelber
Occupation: Law student
Lives in: Brooklyn

“This cotton midi skirt, from a Korean brand called Muarmus, carries me from summer to winter, plus all the awkward weather months in between. The double lining gives it volume and shape, so it’s a little more interesting than your average white skirt.”

Kelly Dawson
Occupation: Writer
Lives in: Los Angeles

“Like Diane Keaton’s character in Something’s Gotta Give, I love a turtleneck. This gray one was from my mother (it’s from Coldwater Creek, which is so mom), and I wear it to casual dates, bridal showers, and Zoom meetings. Remember how ’90s magazines made everyone very concerned about ‘day-to-night’ outfits? A versatile sleeveless turtleneck can actually do that.”

Joanna Goddard
Occupation: Cup of Jo and Big Salad founder
Lives in: Brooklyn

“My twin sister, who’s a doctor, scolded me a couple years ago for not wearing sunglasses and protecting my eyes. I immediately ordered a pair of Warby Parker’s Carrick frames with light-responsive frames — meaning, they darken into sunglasses as soon as I step outside. The classic shape works with every outfit, and now I don’t know how I lived without them!”

Which piece of clothing do you pull on the most? Let’s inspire each other!

P.S. The #1 thing my capsule wardrobe taught me and 10 readers share what they wear to work.

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