A motto to live by: Classic is chic and chic is classic! How does one go about creating a wardrobe that can last a lifetime? Picture Audrey Hepburn’s character, Holly Golightly, strolling the New York City streets in the movie "Breakfast at Tiffany’s." She gracefully wears a simple white button up, a fitted trench coat, that little black dress, fabulous shoes and big sunglasses. To me she is an icon, and she illustrates a fabulous wardrobe that every woman should have.
When looking for essential pieces for a wardrobe, think classic. Remember to make sure the clothing fits properly, because that could always make the piece look dated or frumpy, and that it flatters your body. Your wardrobe can consist of many articles of clothing, but it is helpful to have basic pieces to rely on. Usually it is best to splurge on the items listed below, since they never go out of style.
Wardrobe Essentials:
1. Little black dress (LBD) – The LBD is a must for any girl’s wardrobe. The LBD is timeless and glamorous and can be worn on pretty much any occasion.
2. Classic shirt (white button up) - This can be worn with a work suit, skirt and even jeans. It can make any outfit chic.
3. Trousers – best if bought in black. This way they can be worn for any occasion - Weddings, funerals, work, dates etc. Make sure you try them on and if tailoring needs to be done take them to be fitted properly.
4. Trench coat – can be used as a rain jacket, thrown over jeans, used to dress up an outfit, or to wear to work.
5. Blazer – can be used for work, with jeans, over a dress. It can add spice to an outfit.
6. Fitted jeans – it is every important to have a pair of go-to jeans that fit right and flatter your body. Darker denim is usually a better selection. Boot-cut is a style you cannot go wrong with.
7. A great pair of black heels – when buying a classic, everyday heel it is ok to splurge a little. You want a heel that is not too high and is comfy enough to wear all day.
8. Cardigan and shell set – can be used as a set or mix and match the pieces with other outfits. It is important to select a lasting fabric—cashmere is best—in a color that is neutral (black, brown, grey, camel).
9. Stylish bag – you can never have enough purses, but it is important to have one classic style that can be worn with most anything (leather is safe choice).
10. A pair of stunner shades – can be used to make any outfit look chic or throw on when you do not have any makeup on.
Good places to shop for essential items are higher end department stores or retail shops: Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, J. Crew, Banana Republic and BCBG to name a few. Less pricey stores such as Target, Nordstrom Rack and Filene's Basement often have a good selection of these items as well. Keep in mind, if you have the essentials to your wardrobe you can pair the pieces with trendier items that you buy from season to season. If you are looking to build a classic wardrobe, I suggest you watch "Breakfast at Tiffany’s" for inspiration.
