The hero items in our closets
A roundup of our favs, from some of the Jake and Jones staff
My wardrobe, robust as it is, basically comes down to six items that I wear on repeat. The specifics change over time — certainly after being pregnant for ~1 year the stuff that I’m drawn to has shifted dramatically (as an aside: we’re wearing long jeans now? And we hate a raw hem?) — but the thesis stands. Despite my aversion to the term “capsule wardrobe,” that is essentially what I have.
I think of these pieces as closet heroes — items I just can’t live without. To me, the definition of a hero item is one I wear a few times a week, that can be used to create a couple different outfits, and that feels both personal and joyful.
Right now, my #1 hero item is this B Sides denim jacket that I snagged from Jake and Jones last month. It’s pleasantly oversized, structured without being stiff, and the ideal weight to carry me through the California winter. I’ve been wearing it to Pilates with leggings, a sweater tied as a scarf, and a workout top (inspired by Amy Smilovic’s advice on putting a personal spin on exercise fits), and with B Sides jeans in a similar wash that I snagged at the Jake and Jones warehouse sale. I even took it to San Francisco last week on a work trip — and while I spent 95% of my time in a podcasting studio, I never felt under or overdressed, which is an ongoing concern as I toggle between the Bay and Santa Barbara.
My love affair with the jacket made me curious. What has the rest of the Jake and Jones staff been wearing consistently? I asked and they delivered. Here you go:
Louie: A Perfectly Weighted Hoodie
Louie: As we enter the colder months, it’s the perfect time to find the ideal hoodie. Lady White Co. has been one of my favorites for some time, and I recently got into their Super Weighted Hoodies, of which I now own three.
On the outside, you’ll find a beautifully draped hoodie with raw finishes and a slightly cropped cut. What makes this hoodie special for me is its temperature control; the tight-knit French terry interior is warm but not overwhelming, and its weight feels like a cozy weighted blanket. The temperature and raglan shoulders also make this hoodie great for layering — I never feel restricted nor uncomfortable when layering with this.
Alex: Stylish (and comfortable) Mary Janes
Alex: The ViBi has been in my daily rotation. Haven’t taken it off (except to sleep) since I pulled it out of the box at Jake & Jones. It’s a slipper meant for speed, perfect for my lifestyle — never not running, but leading with comfort ;)
Jen: A Frilly Button Down
Jen: I love this elevated button down from Nepenthes in NYC. It’s more feminine than masculine. Super soft, easy to wear, and easy to dress up. I’ve gotten a lot of people asking me about this brand. Definite winner!
Darcy: A Classic Trench
Darcy: If you have seen me in the store or around town in the last five years you’ve probably seen me in this tan linen trench coat by Men Demoiselles at least once. This is probably the most worn and loved item in my closet. It’s light enough that I can get away with wearing it most months, and perfectly oversized for layering. When I throw it on and I automatically feel more powerful and confident. I think there’s something about a great coat that does that to you.
I think everyone should try and invest in having two long coats in their closet - one that is a tan or beige and one that is charcoal or black. I swear they will be hero pieces in your wardrobe. This one was definitely an investment, but it paid for itself within the first month of owning it.
I now have my eye on the Lemaire Maxi DB Coat which is at the shop right now. It is a bit more oversized and such a cool look.
Cami: A Silver Jewelry Stack
Cami: My jewelry! The right type of adornment can make any look feel more personal and singular. I love bold, colorful pieces, but I wear my silver jewelry the most. The Lemaire mini drop hoops are my current faves. They add the right weight and shine to level up even the simplest outfit. I always purchase silver jewelry when I visit México, but I also recommend Hernán Herdez. I'm excited to venture into bracelets soon!