These are five items that I find myself wearing repeatedly in my wardrobe no matter the season and should be in every woman's wardrobe, regardless of age.
Wrap dress - They fit and flatter every shape of woman, are classic, sexy and will never go out of style.
Well Fitted Dark Wash Jeans - Unlike the skinny or distressed jeans these "plain jane" dark wash straight legged jeans will never look out of place.
Fitted Blazer - Classic and stylish no matter what you pair it with.
Pencil skirt - This is a throw back to my love of all things vintage. These can look fantastic on any figure as long as they fit correctly.
Cashmere sweater - Cashmere comes in many different weights, so it can even be worn in summer. It won't pill and you'll always look polished.
Do you agree with my choices? Or do you have other favourite pieces?
I was prompted to write this post by the lovely Kristian from Never Fully Dressed Without A Style. She has several other bloggers writing their opinions on what their five choices would be...pop over and see if we picked the same items.
Figure flattering and uber sexy this design has never really fallen out of fashion. This is evident in the photos I have chosen above of Marilyn Monroe and Rachel Jensen. They almost look like they are wearing the exact same version of the classic black pencil skirt.
Vintage versions were high waisted, long and sleek and fell to or just below the knee.
Although I don't have a vintage version of my own yet, I do adore my modern versions which can fall at the knee or above but still have the same curve hugging fit.
The pencil skirt is an important wardrobe basic and everyone should have at least one in their closet.
( I don't dare count the number I have!)
I wrote a full article about them for my wardrobe staple series and also explained how to choose the perfect pencil skirt for your body type.
Here is how I would style some of the vintage skirts I came across online through Etsy...
Here are the four most used handbags in my wardrobe.
If you have one of each of these handbags I promise you they will work with every outfit you can pull together.
It must be said that I am not a handbag fanatic. I like them but I'm not obsessed with them, probably because I hate carrying anything that isn't absolutely necessary due to my Fibromyalgia. I get sore if I hold onto something too long or try to hang a bag off my shoulder.
Thus my go-to bag is always a cross body bag.
As long as I keep them light they don't bother me as much and my hands are free. This is the bag I use most in my wardrobe. I also have that brown Lucky saddle bag shown in the photos above. I switch out between the brown and the black bags depending on what I'm wearing. Neutrals like brown and black will go with everything and won't show the dirt or wear and tear as much. Copper or pewter would also be good neutral choices. Leather bags like this look even better as they age.
Then we have the clutch.
I prefer clutches for modern edgy looks and I love how they don't interrupt the line of my outfit.
Now we are onto a big time favourite of mine...the structured or framed handbag.
These are reminiscent of the 1950's and look amazing with fit and flare dresses. This type of bag might be my biggest weakness. I have a few of these lovelies. Added bonus with these bags...you can usually see everything that is inside when you open it.
Now we have the big Momma...the tote.
Perfect for traveling. Lots of room for magazines, large cameras, sweaters and sometimes even a little dog.
Be warned...when you carry these bags your husband, boyfriend or friends may start wanting you to carry their stuff for them as well. It can be like carrying around a suitcase on your arm if you let it get out of hand.
Would you choose these same types of handbags as your "must have" pieces?
This was a tough topic for me because I'm a bit of a shoe hoarder. I may have a problem. So narrowing the choices down to 5 basic shoes to build your best wardrobe was a bit of a challenge. I am happy with my choices and know that they will work hard with all the pieces in your closet.
#1 Flats
This is something I have been looking for forever because although I own ballet flats I do not find them comfortable to walk in. They rub on the back of my heel, cause blisters, don't support my feet at all, and I can feel every pebble I step on. These new Tieks however look like they may just be my answer to all the problems associated with flat shoes. They have a rubber sole and since they are soft I imagine that they form around your foot without crowding it. I haven't bought my own yet, but they are on my wish list. I chose a copper colour as it is neutral but will look great against all skin tones.
#2 Pumps
Pumps are such a classic sexy staple that will go with everything you own. They come in every different heel height so they please every taste.
I have chosen 3 different neutral coloured pumps. I haven't chosen black pumps. That would seem like the normal "go to" item to have on my list but after owning my own pair of silver sparkly pumps they have now almost completely replaced my black pumps. The neutral silver goes with everything but they also "pop" which adds another layer of interest in your outfit.
The leopard pumps will spice up everything and the skin tones pumps will basically make your feet disappear and you will seem taller, thinner and appear to be floating on air when you wear them.
#3 Booties
Everyone needs a good pair of booties. You can wear them with dresses, skirts, jeans and shorts. I chose brown booties because I wear more warm colours and I find them easier to wear in summer. If you find that you have cooler colours choose black booties.
#4 Alternates
This was important since I do believe that if you live in a warmer climate than I do you will probably need some good sandals. I have a pair of sexy silver strappy sandals that I can wear with everything during the summer months.
The bold coloured pumps are an excellent addition to any wardrobe as they add and unexpected pop of colour. Choose a colour you really like. You will be more likely to wear them and also it is likely that colour already exists in your current wardrobe.
I love brogues, oxfords or whatever you choose to call them. They are extra comfortable, look great with dresses, skirts and jeans and add a touch of whimsy and a retro vibe.
It's simple, classic, it goes with everything and it has panache.
How do I know which striped top to buy?
Once again you want this to fit nicely, not too baggy, not too tight. There should be no pulling across the chest and no blukiness through the back. The length should be right around your hips.
The neckline is important. A boat neck is classic but does not elongate the body and is harder to layer another shirt underneath. A v-neck will elongate the body and is easy for layering.
Sleeve length is really up to you. If you plan on layering this under other pieces consider getting some kind of sleeve. A 3/4 length sleeve is sexy and still covers your upper arms.
Navy and white or black and white would be the best choices for colours. If you have a navy blazer or suit then get the navy. If you have more black in your wardrobe get the black and white version.
Does the size of the stripes make a difference?
Yes! If you get stripes that are too large they will make you look larger. This is great if you are thin and trying to add some visual weight to your body.
The smaller the stripe, the easier it is to wear for all body types. A small stripe will read as a texture to the eyes and will look like a solid, breaking up the body less.
Here are some of my ideas on how to wear a striped top
I am becoming acutely aware that I am almost at my top ten already and I still wanted to include other items.
I took a good hard look at what jacket I wore the most often and this year. It is definately the jean jacket. People might argue that this should be the place of the leather motorcycle jacket or the classic trench coat. I will definitely agree that both of those are fine choices as well. Personally I don't get as much wear out of either of those pieces as I do my jean jacket. A classic jean jacket will never go out of style.
The trend of mixing up casual with dressy isn't going away. The jean jacket is ideal for this. Also the jean jacket is a wonderful piece for layering. I layer my slim down jacket under my jean jacket in early winter. I will also layer my jean jacket over almost everything else I own.
What style of jean jacket should I buy?
Classic, simple, close cropped and medium to darker denim like this Gap version will work well with everything.
How should my jean jacket fit?
Like a well tailored jacket. Snug but you should still be able to add a light sweater underneath and do up the buttons without having them pull or gape. The sleeves should fall to just lower than your wrists. The shoulder seams should sit right on the shoulder.
How much do I need to pay to get a good jean jacket?
You don't need to break the bank to find a great jean jacket. H&M, Gap, Forever 21, Target, vintage and thrift stores all carry great jean jackets that can range from $7-60 in price. I paid $30 for the H&M version below.
Here is one of my favourite looks I created with my jean jacket this year...
We are at the blouse stage in our top 10 classic wardrobe foundations. The blouse you buy will effortlessly combine with every other piece from your 10 classics. Paired with jeans it'll give a feminine touch, paired with a pencil skirt a sexy secretary vibe or paired with your suit a corporate image. It is a chameleon in the fashion world and a workhorse in your wardrobe.
How should my blouse fit?
Blouses drape your body. They are soft and feminine. The shoulder seam should sit right on your natural shoulder, not down your arm. The buttons should not pull across the bust. The bottom of the blouse should not be below your crotch. Often today blouses are made extra long so that they can be worn as tunics, if you purchase one like this but plan on tucking them in later, remember there will be lots more to tuck.
What cut of blouse should I buy?
Personally, I am very partial to bow blouses. I love the vintage aesthetic. You may work in a corporate setting in which case a simple button down silk blouse might be more suitable.
Layering is sometimes easier with a blouse that has a collar and sleeves.
What is the right shape for me?
If you are shorter choose a blouse that has an open V neckline, or a button neckline that can be opened.
If you are large chested be aware that most blouses will look better on you if they are belted or tucked in to define your waist.
If you are very tall or have a long torso you can choose a high neckline as this will visually shorten the torso.
What type of fabric should I choose?
My idea fabric is silk, however it needs to be dry cleaned and that can be expensive. There are lots of good poly blends that mimic the look of silk however they are also prone to static cling if you live in a dryer climate. Natural fabrics breathe and will be much softer next to the skin.
What colour should I choose?
Solid colours are easier to combine with other pieces. Smaller patterns will read as texture to the eye and add depth to an outfit. Large patterns are more difficult to layer with other pieces.
Neutral colours are easier to combine but for me this is where I like to see a pop of colour or a bit of pizazz to brighten up the wardrobe and add some personality to the other classic pieces you will be combining it with.
It is no secret that I am a HUGE fan of fit and flare dresses and you should be too. They flatter every body type.
This one of my favourite recent fit and flare acquisitions...
This style was hugely popular in 1950's, when the ladies were always smartly dressed, lovely and fresh as a warm sweet breeze on a Sunday morning.
The name says it all...the upper portion of the dress is *fitted* and the lower portion *flares* away from the body in a full skirt.
Fit and flare dresses are easily layered with other items to dress them up or down and can be considered casual or dressy depending on the fabric and how it is styled. If you don't own one of these dresses once you buy one you will wonder how on earth you lived this long without it. Huge bonus...they are crazy comfortable! I know. You feel like you just won the lottery right? So let's get right to you buying your first fit and flare dress...I know it won't be your last.
What should I look for when buying a fit and flare dress?
How Should It Fit?
Even though there is nothing basically touching you from the waist down, the fit is still very important. The shoulder seam should sit at the top of your shoulder and the waist should be at the smallest part of your body, just below your rib cage. There shouldn't be any bunching in the back.
Obviously you need to be able to move freely but the upper portion should be quite fitted, like a well tailored jacket. Some dresses now have spandex in them providing the tailored image or lycra stretch making it more comfortable.
How Long Should It Be?
As far as length goes this depends on you, your body type and your age. I prefer my dresses to be about two inches above my knee. I'm short and having a higher hemline gives me the illusion of longer legs. If you have long legs already, or a very long torso you may choose to go with a tea length hemline, this will de-emphasize your legs and balance your proportions. (Although personally I think you can never have legs too long...but that is just me.)
What Colour Should I Buy?
Once again you need to think about what you already have in your wardrobe, although if you've stuck with lots of neutrals here might be the time to add some pizazz. There are so many lovely styles of fit and flare dresses with delicate detailing or unusual prints or patterns that are gorgeous. Understanding and recognizing which colours look best on you and capitalizing upon that knowledge is always a winning strategy.
Should I Buy Solid Or Patterned?
A solid will always be easier to layer or combine with other pieces in your wardrobe but patterns are great fun and can spice up your life. Larger patterns are harder to wear. Generally speaking, the larger you are, the larger pattern you can wear. If the pattern is too distracting, don't get it. You should see yourself in the mirror...not just the pattern. As a smallish gal I prefer smaller patterns but that hasn't stopped me from picking up a few choice larger patterns (like the photo above) that don't overwhelm me. Very small patterns basically read like a solid colour to the eye and are easy to wear for everyone.
What Type Of Fabric Should I Buy?
My favourite right now is cotton with a bit of lycra. Cotton breathes, is natural and will feel great next to your skin. Lycra provides that much needed stretch so that the top can really be fitted without be uncomfortable.
Natural fabrics are always your best bet but harder to find and more expensive.
I own a beautiful fit and flare in silk that is one of my favourite dresses. Due to the fabric and the slight sheen of that dress it is considered formal wear. Many of my other fit and flare dresses are cotton, or poly blends and are much more casual.
And here I've styled an outfit with one of the dresses I love from above...
Virtually every label carries their own versions of cardigans. JCrew is known for their vast array of (expensive) cashmere cardigans in every colour of the rainbow but I have found fantastic cashmere, silk and cotton cardigans at TJ Maxx or Marshals.
Tips On How To Buy The Perfect Cardigan For Yourself
If I only have one cardigan what colour should I buy?
Neutral baby. You will be able to layer it with every piece in your wardrobe. I have 2 favourites in my wardrobe I wear all the time, a black short cropped Betsy Johnson in cotton with an open v-neck and a lovely brown silk longer slightly relaxed boat neck version. These are my go-to layering pieces with everything and a must have when I travel.
If I want to buy a second cardigan what colour should I buy?
Look carefully at what colours you have in your wardrobe and then select a complimentary pop of colour. If you have lots of warm colours this might be a burgundy, rust or mustard yellow. If you have lots of cool colours go for violet, red or teal.
How can I tell if it fits?
This is important. If you are going to layer this piece you don't want it to be too large or bulky. It should fit close to your body but not be squishing you so much that you get muffin top or bra bulges showing in the back. The shoulder seam should sit right at the shoulder, not slouch off. The sleeves should sit at your wrist or slightly lower. The waist should fit right around your hips. If you have chosen a cropped style this will fit at your natural waist line which is just below your rib cage.
What fabric should I buy?
Cashmere is my all time favourite. This will be pricier, but natural fabric is breathable, more comfortable and generally will wear better and pill less than man made fibers. Silk is a good option if you live in a warmer climate. Merino wool is the best option after cashmere for cooler climates. Cooler versions of cashmere are available that are worth the splurge. Cotton in summer is a good option. Stay away from arcylic or any man made fibers as they will pill very quickly.
Cardigans are classic pieces and will never go out of style. It is worthwhile to spend a little more money on a higher quality fabric for a piece that you know you will be wearing for years to come.
Tips to remember:
Short cropped cardigans are great with dresses and high waisted skirts.
Longer cardigans are ideal for skinny jeans and jeggings.
V-neck cardigans are easier to layer over button down shirts or bow blouses.
Mid length is the best all around bet for working with your entire wardrobe.
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