Every wardrobe is a unique selection. Depending on when the last time you shopped for yourself, there may be more missing than present from my list in your current closet. With every change of season I like to evaluate what I’ve got hanging and stuffed away in drawers.
No matter what season we’re going into (HELLO Spring) I find that these ten essentials are always in heavy rotation. Make your wardrobe work for you. Adding these may not eliminate the dreaded “what will I wear today” conundrum, but by filling in the gaps you’ll have more options to wear your potentially random favorites.
- Slim Cropped Pants. Endlessly versatile. Pair them with a simple top or chic tunic. I own several in a neutral palate and in fun prints. The best part is they look great with sandals, pointy flats, wedges and even pumps. No need to worry about length since they’re cropped! Vince makes a great pair, along with J.Crew for endless patterned variations. I like these to hit either just above the ankle, or a few inches above that, not at the calf!
- Long Sleeve Silk Blouse. Sumptuous silk adds textural interest and it’s softly pretty. An excellent partner with jeans, knits, and boucle separates. A little bit on the longer side, and they glide (as opposed to cling) over my belly. A little bit fun, elegant and very comfortable. Sure you could go for black or cream, but why not olive green, or emerald? Perhaps bright crimson or blush pink. Whatever your color it’ll be your go-to no matter the weather.
- Classic Belted Trench Jacket or Coat. This doesn’t have to mean a Burberry, or something expensive. I own a bright blue one in nylon, perfect when you need a light jacket to repel a few rain drops, or in cotton poplin with a removable wool liner. It’s a classic for a reason, it’s timeless and always chic.
- Long tanks. To fill in the gaps, and keep the tummy from being exposed. H&M makes great ones in pima cotton and tencel. I also love the cut of the ribbed tank by Vince. Make sure you have them in all the basic colors (black, white, nude) plus a fun bright color or two.
- Pencil Skirt. In navy or black, this is the one silhouette that really does flatter every shape. If you’ve got curves, whatch out for the va va voom factor. This is YOUR skirt. If you’re cut more like a boy it’ll give you shape where you need it. In woven wool, ponté knit or double lined jersey it’ll be your go-to skirt to pair with whatever you plan on wearing on top. Even a basic pocket tee looks chic paired with a pencil skirt.
- Tailored Body-skimming Dress. A body con sheath, either a high neck, v-neck or U-neck works. Choose a knit if you’re ok being a bit more revealing. Otherwise aim for a woven in cotton, wool, or silk for dress that works for nearly any occasion. It’s such a go-to for me I own them in all colors. Even better, this baby works hard for you especially when traveling, and they pack up small. It looks chic, is versatile, and best of all, I feel confident wearing one.
- Three-quarter sleeve Cardigan. This is your personal climate control top. Too cold, throw it on. Too hot, strip it off. I love these in linen, cotton, or yummy silk & cashmere blends. Chunky or thin, There’s something magical and very feminine about 3/4 tops. And an excuse to wear your arm bangles without getting in the way of your sleeves.
- Crisp White Shirt. All you have to do is look at Carolina Herrera. It’s her uniform when paired with a full skirt. She has made this basic iconic as has Lauren Hutton. A white button-down, wrap style, or popover all work as long as it’s crisp and fresh. Look for tops in poplin or silk shantung. There’s a freshness that white brings to an outfit and can easily be matched with everything else in your closet.
- V-necks in Cotton & Cashmere. Tees, fitted sweaters, drapey shirts, they all look great and are so versatile. Layered or on their own, these are the hard working separates you love to wear. My favorites are from Vince and J.Crew, but you can score these basics anywhere from H&M to Neiman Marcus too.
- Nude Shoes. Footwear that’s a shade close to your skin tone elongates your look, and can be worn with ANYTHING. Really. So slimming, and the nude look is hot right now. A monochromatic look is always more slimming than wearing two distinct opposite hues that chop you visually and shorten your look. Take a selfie and you tell me which is more slimming.
Think I missed something? Let me know in the comments.
Pualana 