Living with a roommate can be an exciting and cost-effective way to split rent and expenses, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges — especially with closet space. If you and your roommate are both fashion enthusiasts, chances are your shared closet space is limited. Negotiating storage might even feel like an ongoing battle.
However, there’s a stylish solution! Instead of focusing on whose wardrobe takes up more space, why not embrace the idea of sharing fashion essentials? By coordinating and swapping some of your fave pieces, you’ll save money and also double your outfit possibilities – it’s a win – win!
Here’s a list of fashion items that you and your roommate can comfortably share — without stepping on each other’s style too much.
How to Make Sharing Fashion Work
While sharing clothes and accessories can be a fun way to expand your wardrobe, it’s important to set some ground rules to avoid falling out with your roommates. Here are a few key tips:
- Set Boundaries – Decide which items are off-limits to prevent misunderstandings. Some people are comfortable sharing accessories but not clothes, so make sure you’re both on the same page.
- Keep a Sharing Schedule – If you both love the same item, consider creating a rotation schedule to avoid conflicts.
- Return Items in Good Condition – Always return borrowed pieces clean and damage-free. If something gets stained or damaged, be honest about it and offer to replace or repair it.
Communicate – If you ever feel uncomfortable about sharing a particular item, let your roommate know. Clear communication is key to a successful fashion-sharing system
Sharing a closet is easier if you have the right roommates! Check out roommate-matching platforms to help you find New York City, Boston, Austin, or even San Francisco roommates who love fashion just as much as you do.
1. Oversized Blazers
Oversized blazers are in! They also work for both casual and formal occasions. Whether you’re throwing it over a T-shirt and jeans for a street-style look or pairing it with tailored trousers for a polished outfit, a blazer is a piece that transcends personal style.
We recommend choosing neutral colors like black, beige, navy, or gray so that you and your roommate can incorporate them seamlessly into your wardrobes. If you both have different sizes, an oversized fit will make it easier to share.
2. Statement Belts
Belts are an underrated yet essential accessory that can completely transform an outfit. Belts come in all shapes and styles, from classic leather belts and chunky chain belts to corset belts. They’re super easy to share since they don’t have to be a perfect fit.
You can use it to cinch oversized shirts, accessorize a basic dress, or add an edge to high-waisted jeans. Keeping a shared belt or two in your wardrobe will instantly expand your fashion possibilities.
3. High-Quality Denim Jackets
Denim jackets are timeless and incredibly versatile. You can wear them year-round and style them in numerous ways. If you and your roommate have similar tastes, a classic medium-wash or oversized denim jacket is a great piece to share.
To keep things fair, establish a system for borrowing — perhaps designating specific days or special occasions when one of you gets dibs on the jacket.
4. Trendy Sunglasses
If you and your roommate have a shared love for accessories, sunglasses are a great item to swap. From classic aviators and retro cat-eye frames to trendy oversized shades, sunglasses are a perfect way to switch up your look without adding clutter to your closet.
Since sunglasses don’t require a size match, sharing a few high-quality pairs can help both of you stay on top of trends without splurging on multiple pairs.
5. Chunky Sweaters and Hoodies
When sweater weather rolls around, cozy knitwear becomes a must-have. Chunky sweaters and oversized hoodies are perfect items to share, especially if they have a relaxed fit.
Go for neutral colors or fun prints that you both like, so they blend effortlessly into each other’s wardrobes. If you and your roommate love loungewear, investing in shared hoodies or sweaters is a great way to be comfortable and stylish without hoarding too many pieces.
6. Classic White Button-Down Shirts
A crisp, white button-down shirt is one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe. Whether tucked into high-waisted trousers, layered over a tank top, or worn oversized as a dress, this item is perfect for sharing.
For the best results, we recommend picking a slightly oversized fit so that both of you can style it in different ways.
7. Heels and Statement Boots
While shoes aren’t typically the first thing you’d think of sharing, some styles — like strappy heels and statement boots — are easier to swap, especially if you and your roommate have similar foot sizes.
Since these shoes aren’t worn daily, coordinating who gets to wear them on a particular night out or special occasion can make for a fun and efficient fashion-sharing system.
8. Bags, Purses, and Clutches
Bags are one of the easiest fashion items to share since you don’t need a size match. A classic tote bag, a stylish crossbody, or a trendy clutch can complement both your outfits without taking up extra closet space.
9. Jewelry
Jewelry is a fantastic way to take your outfit to the next level, and since most pieces are one-size-fits-all, they are ideal for sharing.
Some timeless pieces to consider co-owning include:
- Chunky gold hoops
- Dainty layered necklaces
- Stacking rings
- Bold cuff bracelets
By sharing a few key accessories, you and your roommate can maximize your jewelry options without overloading your vanity space.
10. Hats and Beanies
Hats can be an underrated yet stylish addition to any wardrobe. Berets, bucket hats, wide-brim hats, and beanies are all pieces that roommates can share
If you and your roommate have similar head sizes, consider splitting the cost on trendy hats that complement both of your aesthetics.
Bonus: Dresses For Those Special Occasions
Formal wear and event dresses can be expensive, and if you and your roommate have similar body types, sharing dresses for weddings, parties, or formal events can save both of you money.
Instead of buying a new dress for every occasion, consider swapping pieces and styling them differently with accessories and shoes.
Final Thoughts
Sharing fashion with your roommate is a great way to maximize your wardrobe without overcrowding your closet. If you live with roommates who love fashion just as much as you do, you’ll both be able to enjoy more stylish options while saving money.