My favorite items from free people
Over the last few years—especially in the past year—I’ve really shifted how I approach shopping for clothes. I’ve been leaning into a “quality over quantity” mindset, and it’s made such a difference in how I feel day to day. Fast fashion just wasn’t cutting it for me anymore; the pieces didn’t last, and I’d lose interest in them after only a few wears or they would just fall apart in that time. Since I don’t leave the house much, I’ve also been more intentional about finding comfortable, easy-to-wear pieces that still make me feel put together. Instead of choosing like bike shorts and a tee, I’m now reaching for things like a simple romper—just as comfy, but it makes me feel a little more “ready” without any extra effort. These days, I’d rather invest in one $75 item that holds up over time than a handful of things from Target for the same price that won’t make it through the season. I’ve also noticed I spend way less time figuring out what to wear, since I have a small rotation of go-to pieces that I really love. It’s been such a good change for my closet, and I wanted to share more about what that’s looked like!
1. Inbound Onesie – This romper is the perfect throw-on-and-go outfit that makes a complete look with just one piece, which is exactly what I look for in everyday outfit ideas now. I have it in an XL in the lavender color and the purple is such a fun pop! It’s cute on its own, but when it’s chillier, I just add my oversized jean jacket and my Veja sneakers (which you can grab from Free People too). This is one of those wardrobe essentials for staying in or heading out. I originally tried a large, but I sized up to XL for a more comfortable fit!
2. We the Free Perfect Oversized Tee – I have this in white (XL), and it really is the perfect oversized fit! This piece has quickly become a key part of my more minimalist closet. Pro tip: be careful when washing—it shrunk a bit after I dried it the first time, so now I just pop it in the dryer for 15-20 minutes and hang dry. The fabric is super soft and totally worth the little bit of extra care.
3. Green New Classic Set – I have this in green (XL), and it’s seriously chef’s kiss. What I love about sets like this is the versatility—I wear the shorts with my oversized tee or mix and match with other faves. It’s part of my slow fashion journey, where I'm trying to get more out of fewer pieces. Functional, cute, and long-lasting = win.
4. Hot Shot Tee Romper – Another comfy essential that’s perfect for working from home. This romper is what comfortable but stylish outfits are all about. It can be worn front or back, which gives it a little versatility depending on your day. The v-cut makes it great to pair with a fun strappy sports bra, and I love the soft washed black color—it’s definitely part of my sustainable wardrobe because it’s held up so well with regular wear. I get it Hot Shot Tee Romper in an XL and have it like a washed black color!
5. Veja Sneakers – I wore these all over Japan! I got the “Extra White” in a size 8. Heads up: they run super narrow, so if you have wide feet, they may not be the best choice. I’m still breaking mine in, but I do love how they look. Once they’re worn in, I know they’ll be a regular in my intentional closet rotation. I am usually a 7 and 1/2 and these shoes only came in half sizes so I sized up to an 8!
6. Khai One Piece Romper – Got this one right before Japan and omg, I’m obsessed. It’s lightweight and comfy, but looks slightly dressier, which makes it ideal for everyday outfit ideas that can transition from day to dinner. I got the XL in Ashblown, but black and Seed Pearl are also really good options. This piece makes me feel like I’m choosing quality over quantity in my closet.
7. Hot Shot Crossover Set – This is one of my go-to travel fits. It’s cozy, washes really well (even after tons of wears since Christmas), and totally fits my slow fashion mindset. I wear the XL in Gunmetal and always throw on a jean jacket if I need a layer. Definitely one of my favorite wardrobe essentials for staying in or heading out.
8. Ziggy Overalls – If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I LIVE in these during summer. I have three pairs: washed black (L), light denim (XL), and brown corduroy (XL). They’ve lasted YEARS—proof that investing in quality pays off. Whether it’s for a casual day out or lounging at home, they’re a staple in my minimalist wardrobe.
9. Hot Shot Onesie – Probably the piece that started it all for me. I have it in three colors from Free People and even tried some Amazon dupes—but always go back to these. I wear them in XL, and they’re perfect for lounging, working, or anything in between. It’s one of those comfortable but stylish outfits that takes zero effort and always feels good.
10. We the Free High Roller Jumpsuit – I have this in washed black (XL) and wore it for our family photos. LOVE it! It’s a bit too warm for Florida, but if you live somewhere cooler, this is a great piece to add to your intentional wardrobe. They also have a shorts version that I wish fit me better (I got a large), but either way, it’s a super cute and elevated everyday look.
All in all, being more intentional with my closet has honestly been such a game-changer. I feel better in what I wear, I’m shopping less but loving my clothes more, and my mornings are way easier because I’m not overwhelmed by too many options. It’s not about having a huge wardrobe—it’s about having the right pieces that make me feel good and actually last. If you’ve been thinking about making a similar shift, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s been such a positive change, and I’m really excited to keep building a closet that works for me. If you have any questions I would love to answer them! You can let me know in the comments below or you can always send me an email at hello@emmatarynjones.com!
Cheers!
Emma XO