I’ve had a ton of requests to share my favorite brands and closet staples over the years, and I’ve held off – primarily because I felt awkward preaching about the benefits of minimalism and then bombarding you with links to consume more things.
Additionally, it’s taken me a lifetime to sort out my personal style, identify the brands that work for my body, climate, and lifestyle, and what works for me may not work for you. My wardrobe primarily consists of light ripped denim coupled with breezy blouses which make zero sense for daily wear if you’re a corporate attorney living in New York (especially in winter).
Disclaimers aside, I’ve consistently had more requests for this post than any other – time to give the people what they want! I’ve linked many of my wardrobe staples here and also rounded up a list of the brands (all female-founded!) that I love to wear and support, below.
Note: For those of you who are trying the #NoNewThingsChallenge, most of these brands can be found gently used for less on Ebay, Poshmark, The Real Real, and Noihsaf Bazaar.
But First, Denim
I pretty much live in denim and am always on the hunt for the perfect pair. I have a few pairs of vintage Levis (the 517 style is my favorite fit) and also love high-waisted denim from Mother, RE/DONE, and THE GREAT. I personally love a light wash, high-waisted, well worn look, so I think all denim just gets better with age.
Clare V.
The perfect hybrid of Parisian chic and LA cool girl, this brand has been my favorite for years. I especially love the crossbody bags, cheeky hats and cozy sweatshirts.
DOEN
The all female-team behind DÔEN has perfectly nailed a 70’s nostalgic, feminine, effortless vibe, and I simply cannot get enough. I’ve been wearing this ruffly white blouse for years, and now I wear this one with vintage Levi’s and high top sneakers pretty much on repeat.
The Great
I’ve fully embraced my love of casual staples, and THE GREAT nails California Cool like no one else. My go-to stop for comfy sweatsuits, vintage-inspired denim, and cozy sweaters and pullovers. I also love that BFF founders Emily and Merritt are from Northern California
Rachel Pally
My friend Jessica introduced me to LA-based designer Rachel Pally, and I was instantly smitten with her mix and match separates and comfy jumpsuits. Bonus for her efforts to produce local ethically manufactured garments and inclusive sizing.
Beatrice Valenzuela
These simple but super chic leather slides have garnered a cult-like following for good reason. I have the classic black which are perfect paired with jeans or maxi-dresses.
Jenni Kayne
Jenni Kayne is known for her effortlessly chic west-coast-cool wardrobe essentials. I especially love my timeless fisherman sweater, classic summer dresses, and these wear-anywhere boots.
Aliya Wanek
Oakland-based designer, Aliya Wanek, works with two small factories and local contractors in the Bay Area to produce and dye her garments. I’m a sucker for a good sweatshirt and these are the best.
Loeffler Randall
NYC-based brand Loeffler Randall has been one of my favorites for years. When I want to add a fun print or a bit of femininity to my wardrobe, I head straight to this shop. I love pairing a flirty blouse with a ripped jean and sandals or sneakers for a casual, but elevated look.
Janessa Leone
I stumbled across this dreamy hat shop on a trip to LA and it’s become my go-to for both chic, packable hats for travel and daily-wear classics. I own The Sherman in bleach straw and also love The Ross in packable wool. They offer complimentary virtual styling and fitting appointments so you can find your perfect hat size and style.
Mille
I met Michelle, the owner of Mille, in Ojai many years ago when our girls became vacation buddies. Since then I’ve been a big fan of her curated line, distinguished by puff sleeves, romantic ruffle details, and pretty prints from India. If you love a fun maxi-dress, this brand was made for you.
Freda Salvador
These small batch shoes made in family factories, are constructed using the best raw materials and built to last. They produce my favorite slippers of all time, as well the most stylish mules, boots, and heels with padded footbeds. I love their cool girl style and commitment to quality and ethical manufacturing practices. Currently the only fashion brand I partner with, you can use my code 15SHIRA for 15% off at their online store.
In addition to the brands listed, I’ve also been making an effort to opt for secondhand options like cool vintage denim and tops from local shops like Slash Denim, Morningtide and Mercy Vintage.
P.S. If you’re ready to edit your closet and refresh your style, you can check out my closet makeover program right here. I do my best to keep my capsule wardrobe faves updated in The Fewer Better Shop.
Photography Credit: Vivian Johnson
