When it comes to shopping for our new season wardrobe, we always want to buy pieces that we can style all year round and that will last us for years to come.
With the rise of the capsule wardrobe and our desire to reduce the impact we're having on the planet with our 'fast fashion' habits, we turned to our editors and fashion experts to find out their wardrobe must-haves.
From a classic trench coat to a pair of stylish straight leg jeans, here are the 9 items every woman should have in her wardrobe to wear during any season.
Breton Top
Our Editor-in-Chief Gaby Huddart can't go without a breton top in her wardrobe.
"I have about 10 in all sorts of colours, though my favourite is white and navy," she said.
She added: "They're perfect for the weekend as they have a little bit of French chic but without looking like you're trying too hard. They look great with jeans and skirts or shorts when it gets hot. They are my go-to weekend uniform!"
Statement Blouse
Fashion Director Oonagh Brennan can't live without an embroidered blouse in her wardrobe.
"I own about 50, they are a great staple and the basis of my entire wardrobe!" she said.
Paired with pencil skirts or jeans, court heels or trainers - a statement blouse with ruffles and lace can be dressed up or down so is great for all occasions.
Cashmere Jumper
For our Fashion Editor Alisha Motion, an oversized cashmere jumper is her wardrobe must-have.
"A round neck, block knit is a true wardrobe staple and can be worn with anything," she said.
She added: "You can tuck it in loosely to straight leg jeans, layer it over a satin maxi dress or even tie it around your shoulders come spring."
When it comes to choosing the right colour for you, Alisha says it all depends on what look you're going for.
"Neutral shades worn with a tonal outfit offers a sophisticated feel or you could opt for a bolder tone and clash with other colours like red and pink or blue and orange for a more contemporary look."
Straight Leg Jeans
Senior Fashion Assistant Gabriella Minchella deems straight leg jeans her wardrobe essential and says they are her go-to.
"Whether I’m wearing them with an oversized knit and ankle boots for a day at the office or a slick blazer and statement earrings for a special occasion, they’re an item I can create any outfit around for any occasion."
Long Sleeve Floral Dress
Deputy Digital Editor Francesca Rice can't go without a floral dress in her wardrobe.
"I always say invest in a long sleeve floral dress now and you'll wear it right the way through 'til autumn," she said.
"In the warm weather wear it with bare legs and white trainers, and in the winter pair it with tights and black ankle boots. There are now so many of these staple styles to choose from on the high street so take your pick – you really won't regret it!"
Trench Coat
Fashion Director Amanda Marcantonio says no wardrobe should be without a classic trench coat.
"The trusty trench is an all-time classic with a talent for dressing itself up and down," she said.
She added: "I live in mine all year around. It looks great with everything from my office uniform of wide leg culottes, a cashmere jumper and white trainers, to my Little Black Jumpsuit and red lippy on a Saturday night. Worn belted to define the waist or simply left undone, no wardrobe should be without one!"
Leather Biker Jacket
"My wardrobe essential is definitely a black leather jacket," said our Consumer Affairs Director Caroline Bloor.
"It's the perfect day-to-night piece so you can go from office to bar so easily. It's an investment but if you find the right one it will last you for years!"
White Trainers
"You can’t beat a pair of box-fresh white leather sneakers to put a spring in your step," said Fashion Editor Joanne Atkinson.
"I currently have several pairs on rotation and I wear them with everything from trouser suits to floaty dresses. They’re practical, stylish, perfect for busy lifestyles and are at the top of my wardrobe must-have list."
M&S Collection Leather Lace Up Side Stripe Trainers, £45
Black Ankle Boots
For me, a pair of black ankle boots are an absolute wardrobe essential. They go with everything, from midi dresses to jeans, and work for all occasions. They're an investment and it can take a while to find the perfect pair, but once you do you'll have them for years to come.
There you have it - the 9 items our editors can't live without. What is your wardrobe must-have?
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