- LisaEmeloStyle
- Jan 11
- 3 min read
How to Wear Your Wardrobe Staples in Fresh, Unexpected Ways
January has a way of making us crave new. New goals. New routines. New energy.
But before you start eyeing a cart full of “must-haves,” I’m writing this blog to let in on a little style secret…The most powerful way to refresh your look in the new year is by wearing what you already own, just differently.
Think of this as a style reset, not a closet overhaul.
Let’s take your most trusted wardrobe staples and give them a modern, confidence-boosting twist.
The Blazer: From Polished to Effortlessly Cool
You already know the blazer works for meetings and dinners, but in 2026, it’s all about contrast.
Try this: Throw your tailored blazer over a lightweight cashmere turtleneck sweater, add relaxed jeans, and finish with a sleek sneaker, heel or ankle boot. Push up the sleeves. Add a belt.
Suddenly, that “work blazer” feels modern, unfussy, and chic.
Style shift: Structured + soft = instant update.
Jeans: Elevated, Not Everyday
Your jeans don’t need replacing, they need reimagining.
Try this: Pair straight-leg or relaxed jeans with a silk blouse, or cashmere sweater tucked just slightly at the front. Add a trench coat or blazer or try wrapping a cardigan around your shoulders.
Finish the look with a heeled boot, ballet flat or loafer and a bold bag.
This is the kind of outfit that looks intentional without trying too hard.
Style shift: Casual denim meets elevated textures.
The Leather Jacket: Sleek Instead of Tough
A leather jacket is often styled edgy, but this year, let’s soften it.
Try this: Layer your leather jacket over white jeans, a skirt, or structured trousers and add a neutral cashmere sweater or a white button-down shirt.
Finish with a pointed-toe flat or heel.
The result? Polished, modern, and wearable.
Style shift: Tough meets tailored.
Leather Pants: Daytime Ready
If your leather pants only come out at night, it’s time to rethink that.
Try this: Style them with a cozy argyle sweater or a crew neck top and add a classic wool or trench coat.
Keep the palette neutral (camel, ivory, gray, or black) to make the look feel elevated rather than edgy.
Style shift: Luxe textures in daylight.
The Cashmere Sweater: Layered & Intentional
Your cashmere sweater deserves more than being thrown on last minute.
Try this: Pair your favorite cashmere sweater with your leather pants or throw it over your shoulders and pair with a sweater dress.
The texture of the cashmere will stand out and make your outfit look more polished.
Pair your cashmere sweater with jeans or winter white trousers and finish with a belt and statement shoe.
Style shift: Simple layers, thoughtful details.
White Trousers: All Season
White isn’t just allowed this time of year, it’s encouraged.
Try this: Pair white trousers with a tonal sweater and either a blazer or leather jacket for contrast.
Add a dark shoe or boot, gold jewelry and a rich-textured bag to ground the look.
Style shift: Light neutrals are unexpected in the winter months.
The Takeaway
A “new you” doesn’t come from buying more, it comes from styling smarter.
When you look at your closet with fresh eyes, you’ll realize your staples aren’t boring…they’re powerful.
This year, dress with intention. Mix textures. Play with proportions. And most importantly, wear your clothes in a way that reflects who you are now.
If you’d like help reworking your wardrobe or creating new outfits from the pieces you already own, I’d love to help you style your next chapter!
Wishing you a healthy, stylish and happy new year!
xoxo Lisa
