My Word of 2025 Is "Sophisticated," and These 34 Pieces Are the Definition
While doing my annual new-year closet clean-out, I was thinking about how I wanted to show up in 2025, and the word I kept returning to was "sophisticated." Maybe it's the air of elegance infused into the fashion world lately or just part of getting older, but I've been feeling drawn to polished pieces. Not only do sophisticated items skew more timeless (and, therefore, make for wiser investments), but wearing something refined also changes the way I carry myself throughout the day.
In order to show up as my best self this year, I'm leaning into sophisticated fashion. Since I've recently made some room in my closet, I scoured the internet for elevated pieces to consider adding to my wardrobe. With satin fabrics, hourglass shapes, and structured silhouettes in mind, I saved 34 utterly chic items that are the definition of sophistication. Below are the standout pieces, from elevated suiting to classic watches.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

-
The Key to Easy, Elegant Outfits Might Have Been Hiding in the Men's Department All AlongAccording to celebrity stylist and vintage expert Brie Welch.
-
Spotted in Las Vegas: 6 Trends F1's Best-Dressed WAGs Wore During the Grand Prix WeekendFirst-place trophies all around.
-
Black and White Are Fine, But in London and Paris, Everyone With Taste Knows These Colors Look Better TogetherInstant outfit ideas ahead.
-
Jeans Are Fine, But Sofia Richie Grainge's Fall Pant Trend Is the Perfect Alt If Looking Rich Is Your 2025 GoalIt instantly makes you look expensive.
-
Timeless, Versatile, and Under $1000: Your Foolproof Gen Z Investment-Buy GuideFrom classic watches to forever ballet flats.
-
Not Snakeskin, Not Croc—These 2 Underrated Animal Prints Are Quietly Staging a Fashion CoupFrom J.Crew to Khaite.
-
I've Worked atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing for 10+ Years—Here's My Fall 2025 Shopping List for Cool and Classic StyleI won't lead you astray.
-
6 Anti-Trend Shoes Experienced Shoppers Are Wearing With JeansYou can't go wrong with the classics.

