I’m a Former Madewell Stylist and Think These 11 Staple Buys Work for Everyone

Calling all Madewell stans. If you’re a fan of the brand’s classic, well-made pieces then you’re probably well aware of which perennial staples are the most popular. There are so many things the retailer gets right, from their denim selection to their everyday shoes, and classic bags, but above all, there are a handful of key buys that are truly universal.

After years of working as a stylist at the brand, my friend Zoë Thompson is well-acquainted with their offering, so I had her share the exact pieces that she thinks work for everyone, regardless of your taste, age, or budget. There are eleven of these Madewell basics that she insists are truly versatile, timeless, and work for everyone. Think of these as the kind of items that you’ll invest in now and continue to wear on repeat for years to come. Yep, they’re just that good. Continue on to read, and of course shop, each of the ones she recommends.

“I’ve been in a loving relationship with my Medium Transport Tote for years. It’s the smaller and more effective version of Madewell’s original best selling bag, the Transport Tote. This piece is perfect for you if: a) you find yourself always losing your phone or your keys in your bag (enter: the ever-helpful outside pocket) and b) you like the lady-ness of a handbag but your hands aren’t always free (hello, top handles AND removable shoulder strap). This bag is a workhorse.”

“While I love my Medium Transport Tote, I also own the original, roomier version. This bag can hold everything, and it ages like George Clooney thanks to its soft but durable pebbled leather It can be whatever you need it to be—dressy, casual, timelessly cool, etc.”

“If you have been waiting for the right time to pull the trigger on buying a leather jacket, this is it. This style has been a Madewell staple for what feels like decades, because it’s made of buttery soft leather, has just the right amount of hardware, achieves that ideal just-south-of-cropped length, and is tailored but not stiff. It looks like you’ve had it forever, and will last at least that long. It looks classic with jeans, and really punches up a dress.”

“These are the effortless, cute, go-with-anything sandals every woman deserves. They are truly functional, with an almost invisible toe strap that will keep these puppies from flying off your feet while you’re strolling/speed-walking/boppin’ around. Wear them with jeans and a t-shirt to achieve the ultimate easy-going, low-maintenance look. Allow them to temper a sweet little frock when sneakers aren’t cutting it. They are sturdy, inexpensive, and will last you through many summers to come.”

“These were and always will be the go-to recommendation to customers because that sky-high rise is endlessly supportive and comfy, the denim is soft and just stretchy enough, and any butt (quote me!) looks good with these on. You can get these with a raw hem, an exposed button fly, in a variety of inseams, fits, and washes, and you will always be happy you put them on.”

“The Slim Demi-Boot is a fresh take on the ever-popular Cali Demi-Boot. I love the Slim because you get a little more length, a little less flair, and still get all the high-waisted, quirky, vintage-y goodness of the original. Put these on with your favorite boots! Tuck in a chunky sweater! Enjoy!”

“Madewell is as much known for their shirting as they are for their denim, and the Ex-Boyfriend flannel button-down is IT if you love versatile pieces. It’s slightly oversized, which makes it the perfect layering piece — scrunched under overalls, thrown over a turtleneck or sweatshirt, tucked in or knotted at the waist. It’s a shirt you’ll reach for again and again. (And don’t miss the poplin version!)”

“These sunglasses are the perfect shape on almost every face, they’re lightweight, and they’re inexpensive. They will make you look cool(er). Do not delay.”

“This mule is further evidence of Madewell’s dedication to timeless, go-with-everything designs. They are the perfect height, comfortable enough to wear all day, can be easily dressed up or down, and never slide off your feet mid-stride. The sleekness of the leather and subtly pointed toe are perfectly balanced out by the natural wood stacked heel. They are an everyday, all-day shoe, and every woman deserves that kind of stability in their life.”

“If you love the Harper Mule, but want a style with less height and more personality, let me introduce you to Frances. What she lacks in height she makes up for in attitude, thanks to a pointed toe that means business and a hint of bougie house slipper. These shoes will effortlessly take you from the office to after-work drinks to weekend getaways, thanks to their sassy-meets-casual style and their impossibly comfortable soles. You just might never take them off.”

“Yet another Madewell item that continually flies off the racks! This slightly oversized, short-sleeve button-up always looks good, in every situation, on everybody it graces. I’m a sucker for a boxy blouse, and this one is made of a weighty cotton, so it hangs beautifully on everyone.”

Speaking of basics, women over 50 know not to forget these wardrobe staples at H&M, Topshop, and Zara.