5 Closet Staples I Never Skip Wearing—Straight From an L.A. Jewelry Designer

John Doe

When you own a jewelry brand in a city like Los Angeles, you might assume my wardrobe is all glitz and glam. But honestly?

My everyday style is much simpler—and that’s intentional. I believe that the best way to make jewelry truly shine is to pair it with timeless, versatile pieces that feel comfortable and authentic. Over the years, I’ve discovered a handful of closet staples that I keep coming back to again and again.

These aren’t just clothes or shoes; they’re the foundation of my personal style and the perfect backdrop for the jewelry I design and wear.

Living and working in L.A., where the vibe is effortlessly cool yet polished, I need pieces that can take me from morning meetings to afternoon errands, and then out for dinner without skipping a beat. Whether it’s a casual day in the studio or a last-minute date night, these staples always have my back.

They’re pieces I trust to look good, feel comfortable, and work well with my jewelry collections—whether I’m layering delicate gold chains or stacking rings.

In this article, I’m sharing the five closet staples I’ll never stop wearing. From the edgy leather jacket to the easy-going sweatsuit, these are the pieces that define my daily look and keep my style fresh yet timeless.

I’ll tell you why I love each item, how I style them, and why they’re worth investing in. If you want a wardrobe that’s both stylish and practical—plus the perfect complement to your favorite jewelry—keep reading!

1. Leather Jacket

If there’s one piece that instantly elevates any outfit, it’s a leather jacket. Whether I’m running errands, meeting a client, or heading out for a casual dinner, my leather jacket is always close by.

Why a Leather Jacket?

First off, it’s incredibly timeless. Leather jackets have been in style for decades, and they’re not going anywhere. They add a subtle edge and a bit of toughness to any look, which balances beautifully with delicate, feminine jewelry. I love pairing my daintiest gold necklaces with a classic black leather jacket—there’s something so cool and effortless about that combo.

How to Choose the Perfect Leather Jacket

Look for quality leather that feels soft but durable. A jacket that fits well across the shoulders and isn’t too bulky will serve you best. I personally prefer classic colors like black or deep brown, but some folks enjoy olive or even bold reds. The key is to pick one that you’ll want to wear every day.

Versatility and Comfort

One of the best things about leather jackets is how versatile they are. They work with jeans and a tee, a little black dress, or even a skirt and blouse combo. Plus, leather is breathable and durable, so it’s perfect for Los Angeles weather where the evenings can get cool but it’s still sunny most days.

My Personal Favorite

My go-to leather jacket has a slim fit with silver hardware—it feels like wearing a little confidence boost. I’ve had it for years, and it still looks brand new because I take care of it with leather conditioner and keep it away from direct sun.

2. Straight-Leg Jeans

Next up are straight-leg jeans. These are my favorite denim style because they offer the perfect balance between comfort and style.

Why Straight-Leg Jeans?

For the longest time, skinny jeans were all the rage, but straight-leg jeans have made a strong comeback. They’re flattering on just about every body shape, and they provide room to breathe without looking sloppy. I love how these jeans give off a relaxed yet polished vibe.

Styling Straight-Leg Jeans

These jeans work beautifully with everything—from sneakers to heels. When I’m wearing a simple white tee or a leather jacket, straight-leg jeans tie the whole look together effortlessly. They’re also great for layering with ankle boots or loafers.

The Fit Matters

I recommend trying different rises—high-rise can be great for a more vintage-inspired look, while mid-rise feels super comfortable and modern. The key is to pick jeans that fit snugly around your waist and hips but fall straight down without clinging to your calves.

Why I Keep Coming Back to Them

Aside from being stylish, straight-leg jeans are incredibly durable. I find that they hold their shape and don’t stretch out like other denim styles. That means they stay flattering and comfortable through multiple wears and washes.

3. Sweatsuit

Comfort meets style with a good sweatsuit. When you own a jewelry brand, you spend long hours in the studio, sometimes moving between meetings, errands, and photoshoots. A sweatsuit that looks polished can be a lifesaver.

Why a Sweatsuit?

Gone are the days when sweatsuits meant sloppy or lazy dressing. Today, a well-designed set feels cozy and chic. I love having a neutral-toned sweatsuit (think beige, gray, or black) that looks sophisticated enough to wear outside the house.

Styling Tips for Sweatsuits

Pair your sweatsuit with clean white sneakers or even sleek slingbacks for a mix of comfort and polish. Adding your favorite pieces of jewelry—like layered gold chains or chunky rings—takes the look to the next level. It’s the perfect way to feel put-together without sacrificing comfort.

Fabric and Fit

Look for soft fabrics with a bit of stretch that won’t pill after a few washes. The fit should be relaxed but not baggy—think streamlined hoodies and tapered joggers. This silhouette makes the outfit look intentional, not thrown on.

My Sweatsuit Ritual

When I’m working from home or doing casual weekend outings, my sweatsuit is my go-to. It’s easy to move in, breathable, and keeps me feeling cozy. Plus, when I add my statement earrings, it feels like an outfit rather than loungewear.

4. Simple Tee

It might sound basic, but a simple, well-fitting tee is truly a closet hero. A great tee works as the perfect canvas for jewelry and completes countless outfits.

Why a Simple Tee?

Simple tees are versatile, easy to layer, and classic. They keep things casual yet polished. Whether you tuck them into jeans, wear them under a blazer, or layer them beneath a leather jacket, they anchor your outfit effortlessly.

What to Look For

Go for high-quality materials like soft cotton or cotton blends that feel breathable and comfortable against the skin. A little bit of stretch helps keep the tee’s shape over time. Stick to neutral colors like white, black, or gray because they complement almost any jewelry style.

Styling with Jewelry

Simple tees allow your jewelry to stand out. I often wear my delicate gold chains or bold statement earrings over a plain tee. The contrast between simple fabric and shiny metal is striking. Plus, tees give you the flexibility to dress up or down depending on the occasion.

Why I Always Have Several

I usually keep a handful of tees in rotation—some are more fitted, others more relaxed. It’s nice to have options depending on the look and mood. A simple tee is like a blank canvas that you can dress up with your favorite accessories.

5. Slingbacks

Last but not least, slingback shoes. These are my favorite go-to footwear because they combine elegance and comfort beautifully.

What Makes Slingbacks Special?

Slingbacks have a strap that secures your heel, which means they stay on better than regular flats. They look refined without the fuss of high heels. Whether you opt for pointed toes, kitten heels, or block heels, slingbacks add a polished touch to any outfit.

Styling Slingbacks

I wear slingbacks with everything from straight-leg jeans to dresses. They’re perfect for work, brunch, or even casual evenings. Their sleek design elevates a simple outfit effortlessly.

Comfort and Fit

Because of the heel strap, slingbacks offer more stability and comfort than most flats or heels. They’re ideal if you want to look chic but still be able to walk comfortably all day.

My Favorite Pairs

I tend to choose neutral colors like beige, black, or blush so they match my jewelry and wardrobe seamlessly. Sometimes I’ll go for a pair with a subtle pattern or texture to add a little extra interest.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to building a wardrobe, especially one that complements a love for jewelry, I believe in quality over quantity. These five closet staples—the leather jacket, straight-leg jeans, sweatsuit, simple tee, and slingbacks—are the foundation of my everyday style. They aren’t just trendy pieces that come and go; they are timeless, versatile, and effortlessly chic. Each one plays a vital role in helping me feel confident and put-together, whether I’m running a business, meeting friends, or simply enjoying a day out in L.A.

What I love most about these staples is how well they work with jewelry. Since my profession revolves around creating beautiful accessories, I want my clothes to act as a clean canvas that lets my pieces shine. A classic leather jacket with a stack of rings, or a simple tee layered with delicate gold necklaces—these combinations feel natural and balanced. They highlight the jewelry without overwhelming it, creating a style that’s both personal and polished.

Investing in these pieces also means investing in longevity. Well-made staples can last for years with proper care, saving you from fast fashion’s cycle of constant buying and discarding. They adapt to seasons and trends with ease, which means you get more wear for your money—and a wardrobe that feels curated, not chaotic.

If you’re looking to simplify your style, focus on comfort, or find clothing that pairs beautifully with your jewelry, these five staples are an excellent place to start. They’ll keep you looking stylish, feeling comfortable, and ready for whatever the day brings.

In the end, fashion is about expressing who you are. For me, that means classic pieces that stand the test of time, paired with jewelry that tells my story. What are your forever staples?