The change of seasons always finds me standing in the doorway of my closet contemplating a complete overhaul. And while we often have to wait until November in Los Angeles to feel the cooler temperatures and see the leaves change color, I pull out my sweaters and boots, and still want something new and fresh to wear.
But the reality is, regardless of the season, I always rely on a handful of classic, dependable staples to pull my look together. And while we can all appreciate a beautiful new dress or a fabulous bag, there are ten items that I believe every woman worth her fashion salt should own.
These are the must-have pieces that will serve as the backbone of your wardrobe, and can easily be accessorized with items that suit your personal taste. Trends will come and go and seasons will change, but these are the items that will loyally serve you year after year.
1. Little Black Dress – This timeless piece can take you from the office to an evening on the town with the switch of a few well-chosen accessories. A simple, yet sophisticated black dress will serve as the perfect backdrop to a killer pair of colorful stilettos, a faux fur jacket or a statement piece of jewelry.
2. Classic White Shirt – This perennial favorite will never go out of style. Paired with denim or a slim pencil skirt, the white button-down shirt exudes elegance. Just ask Carolina Herrera or Sharon Stone.
3. Denim – There’s a very good reason that Yves Saint Laurent once mused that he wished he had invented the blue jean. A well-fitting pair of jeans (preferably dark denim and boot cut) flatters most body shapes and can easily be dressed up or down depending on your mood. A great pair of jeans can be accessorized a million and one ways with what you already have in your closet.
4. Cashmere Cardigan or Crewneck – A basic necessity for chilly restaurants and in-flight cabins. It’s also the perfect companion for travel in colder climates.
5. Ballet Flats – I love a 4” stiletto just as much as the next Louboutin-loving girl, but it’s my ballet flats that I turn to time and time again for ease, comfort and weekend casual. There’s a certain insouciance to the ballet flat that says, “clearly I know my way around the fashion block, but I just don’t have to try so hard to look fabulous.”
Combining three style essentials in one look: a black fitted blazer, skinny jeans and an
ultra-feminine version of the classic white shirt.
6. High Heel Pumps – Whether peep-toe or classic, stiletto or chunky heel, a high heel pump in a neutral color (black, brown, navy or nude) will work well with all of your other wardrobe essentials.
7. Pencil Skirt – Much like the LBD, this item will take you from the boardroom to cocktails in style. It looks fabulous on all body types and is easily paired with a classic white shirt of cashmere sweater.
8. Black Pants – Look for a slim fit and make sure the hem falls just an inch or so above the floor. And unless you are 6’ tall and very thin, avoid too many pockets and pleats, as these can add bulk where we don’t want it.
9. Fitted Blazer – Your jacket should follow the silhouette of your body and accent the hourglass curve at your waist. It’s the perfect piece to pair with your pencil skirt or black pants and a white shirt. Or make it more casual with a pair of jeans.
10. Trench Coat – This is one of those classic pieces that always seems to be “on trend.” While Burberry is probably best known for their trench, there are many other brands who have created their own version of this staple. Check out Theory, Tory Burch, Zara, Kenneth Cole, Tahari and DVF. The trench coat has come to the rescue of many a “bad wardrobe” day.
Being chic isn’t about having the most expensive handbag or wearing the latest trend. It’s about being true to who you really are and feeling comfortable in your own skin. Real style comes from within. It’s having the confidence to get organized, select items that you love and work for your body type and trusting your own creativity. If you feel great, then you’ll look great – whether your outfit cost $100 or $1,000.
Now that’s great style.
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