This past weekend I had the esteemed pleasure of more, or less personal shopping with a dear friend of mine. We were looking for fall trendy must-haves, wardrobe essentials, and of course killer shoes! Throughout our fun-filled afternoon of flinging clothing in and out of the fitting rooms I started to think about the absolute MUSTS that each and every woman should have in her closet. These items are those that should cost a little bit more, since quality is essential when selecting classic pieces that will always look fresh and guard against falling victim to crimes of fashion. So check off from this list as you go down. Perhaps you are missing a few items or maybe need to update what you already have. I promise if you adhere to this tabulation you’ll always be a hit!
- A white blouse.
- A black pencil skirt.
- A beautiful pair of black trousers. Polished cotton is nice but will wrinkle. Try light wool blends or a cotton with a smidge of spandex to keep the creases away.
- Classic denim jeans. Select a medium wash, flattering back pockets, boot-cut leg, and medium-low waist.
- A quirky belt. ( You may need 2 – one that fits at the waist, the other that fits lower on the hips.
- A LBD (Little black dress)
- Opaque black tights
- Pearls
- A classic shoe. Think black patent pump.
- To-the-knee boots. Black is best.
- Ballet flats
- A long wool coat. Select a color like camel or black
- A fun party dress
- A black turtleneck – make sure it’s fitted
- A medium sized daytime leather handbag. Choose pleather and you’ve cheapened you’re entire look.
- A small clutch for evening. Metallic satins are neutral enough for anything.
- One unique accessory that you wear all the time that always earns a compliment. Perhaps it’s a vintage ring from your grandmother, or a sweet flea-market find – - whatever it is it’ll always make you distinctive.
- A tailored black suit that could go professional or for evening
- A feminine top/blouse that always makes you feel pretty.
- White ribbed tank top
- Flesh toned camisole
- Perfectly fitted flesh-toned bra (if you aren’t sure of your exact size get measured) both strapless and regular
- Leather jacket or fitted blazer
- Black cardigan sweater
- Pashmina scarf
- Something leopard – if you’re shy do a shoe. More bold? Give a sheer top a try!
Please dear readers, also keep in mind if you have any style questions or are trying to find a certain something I am happy to offer my advice and services!
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Great list of must haves! Thank you for the tips! Should a flattering haircut be on the list as well? Nothing worse than a cute LBD , classic pearls and a cute show with a horrible mullet or frosted highlights
Don’t forget a killer night time stilleto. How about cosmetic must have colors?
You two are right! The wrong hair and make-up definitely makes or breaks a look! It’s imperative to stay on top of your grooming regime just as much as your wardrobe essentials! I will address hair and make-up in a later posting! Thanks for your input!
PS The “killer nighttime stiletto” is the patent pump (#9) – Great for day or night!
I would add a nice black tshirt, decent walking shoes (not white leather tennis shoes). Ballet flats look terrible on me so some other low shoe – like a black boot but lower – will have to do. Small (one inch or less) hoop earring in gold or silver. And everyone (especially in NE Ohio) should have a cashmere sweater. Also, unless it is 20 degrees below and snowing, women do not need to wear giant parkas. They do us no favors.
I like your list, but feel I must disagree with #14 on behalf of us girls with larger “girls”. We should most definitely not wear a turtleneck…EVER! It makes us look like we have a uni-boob. Perhaps in place of a turtleneck, all those with a c-cup or larger should own a deliciously cut surplice or v-neck three quarter length lightweight knit instead?
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