THE START of a new year is the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe with some classic staples, and new research has revealed the top five fashion items every woman needs in her wardrobe this year.

A survey of 1,000 UK adults, from One4all Favourites Gift Cards, has revealed women’s must-have fashion essentials, to mark the launch of the new One4all Fashion Favourites Gift Card.

And the piece your wardrobe shouldn’t be without is revealed as a pair of well-fitting jeans, with the overwhelming majority of those polled (80%) saying this is an essential part of their fashion collection, as well as being the item which women would most likely splurge on.

Next to appear on the list was a basic white t-shirt (68%) and a classic trainer (63%) – with both guaranteeing comfort and style with any outfit.

A little black dress, which is a classic wardrobe staple which can be worn again and again, was identified as a must-have for nearly half (49%) of women, followed by black tailored trousers (39%) – which can be dressed up or down for any social occasion.

The research also reveals how often women like to update their wardrobe, with 57% treating themselves to new clothing at least once a month.

And it looks like women like to keep it in the family when it comes to getting fashion inspiration, with nearly half (38%) looking to friends and relatives when they’re looking to give their wardrobe a refresh, while only 29% feel inspired by influencers and celebrities.

It seems the pandemic has had a longstanding impact on our fashion priorities too, with 34% admitting they have learned the importance of a capsule wardrobe and buying fashion pieces which will last, while more than 1 in 3 (31%) are more aware of the impact clothes have on their overall mood.

Far from being easily influenced, the majority of those polled prefer their wardrobes to represent their personal taste and style, as over half (64%) buy clothes they like and aren’t swayed by the current fashion trends.

Mark Heyes, celebrity stylist comments; “I’m pleased to see that British women really see the value in those timeless classic fashion pieces, which really work to elevate our own personal style and suit every shape, style and budget.

“There are such great-quality jeans available even on a smaller budget – a hefty price tag doesn’t necessarily mean better jeans, so I’d recommend not spending any more than £50. Instead, shop wherever you find the jeans best fit your figure and choose a style you feel comfortable in. Don’t be afraid to try something different and swap out your favourite pair of jeans in your capsule wardrobe every few years, for example from skinny to wide leg. We can often get stuck in a rut with our style, so opting for an alternative style jean can completely transform the appearance of your favourite outfits”

Aoife Davey, Senior Marketing Director at One4all Favourites Gift Cards, comments on the findings: “Everyday fashion staples are an essential in any wardrobe, they provide us with a classic item to style our outfits around. Fashion inspiration is everywhere; designer collections, high-street stores, social media but it’s interesting to see that so many of us still turn to friends and relatives for style advice, while still ensuring our wardrobes reflect our own personal style.

“Now we’ve entered the New Year, it’s the perfect opportunity to freshen up your wardrobe and treat yourself to your own statement pieces which will stand the test of time. It couldn’t be easier than with the One4all Fashion Favourites Gift Card, whether you’re splurging on yourself, or wanting to treat the fashion lovers in your life to a gift you know they’ll really appreciate.”