This fall, the field jacket/barn jacket is in, and every single retailer seems to have their own options available. It can be seriously overwhelming! I’ve worn a version of a field jacket almost my entire life: my first Barbour was given to me by my grandparents at the age of three, and since then, I’ve never been without one.

In this season of my life, I’m embracing the wardrobe staples I’ve inherited and am searching for pieces to fill in the gaps. I’m comfortable in my style and I know what works well for me and my lifestyle. I have it figured out, so shopping should be simple… but, in fact, it’s more difficult than ever to find well-made, classic staples that will actually last. I’ve developed a checklist that I refer back to before I purchase any new piece of clothing. Here’s what I look for when buying new clothes.

I prefer old clothes. Not “old-old,” per se, but clothes that have been passed down to me. I am fascinated with their history, the weight of that history, the stories intrinsic in these belongings, known or unknown. Writing this blog, I’m realizing just how many of the pieces I gravitate towards belonged to people I loved.

In advance of each season, I share my seasonal wardrobe staples: my failsafe list of timeless pieces that work for me. My summer wardrobe staples list has been updated for 2024 and is filled with high-quality pieces to take you everywhere this summer and summers to come.