BUILDING A FUNCTIONAL WARDROBE: STEP 3

So we have edited, purged and organized and at last we have reached my favorite part of building your closet: working your wardrobe! This portion is definitely the most fun {as long as you love playing with clothes, and clearly I do!}, but even if shopping has intimidated you in the past, I'll give you some helpful tips here to make your trips to the mall {or shopbop.com, whatever} much more productive.

So, if I were starting from scratch and had endless amounts of moohlah, these are pretty much the items I would fill my closet with. For most of us though, we aren't starting from scratch, we are simply filling the fashion holes that were identified in our editing process (click here to read in case you missed out). So do you have the notes you took from the final step of our purging post? To recap, you should have identified the following:

-What silhouettes do I gravitate to?
{Do you love skinny jeans or flares? Pencil skirts or A-line styles? Slouchy shifts or

more tailored dresses? V-neck or boat-neck tops? Button downs or drapey tops?}

-What styles are most flattering to my body type?

-What colors am I drawn to?
{If you aren't sure what looks good on you, know three things: 1. you can do a warm/cool test easily by holding up a swatch of both ivory and white fabrics to your skin. If the white looks better, you have more of a cool tone to your skin, and cooler tones like sea blues, soft grays, and cool pinks and greens will look best on you. If the ivory is a better match, warm earthy tones like warm reds, olive green, oranges, and mustard hues will suit you best. 2. Remember that Jewel tones like deep ruby red, sapphire blue, lapis or cobalt blue, emerald green, jade green, turquoise, citron yellow, and deep amethyst purple, are almost universally flattering to all skin tones. 3. These are not set in stone rules, just guidelines to help you out. If you are pale with a cool undertone and want to rock that mustard colored dress, go for it, just make sure to pair it with warmer toned make-up.}

-What is missing in my wardrobe?

{What pieces do you need more of? What pieces do you find yourself always wishing you had to pull together fabulous outfits? Your current lifestyle and body type are key components in answering this question. Do you have a closet full of stillettos to chase your new baby around in? Are you flooded with jeans and leggings but no office attire?}

To show you how to apply your answers to these questions to a shopping trip in reality, I am going to walk you through my personal wardrobing process. I'll give you an overview of pieces that I believe are essential in most wardrobes and which styles work best for me in each category, and why. I'll also cover some figure flattery basics. To give you a bit of body and lifestyle perspective, I'm tall at 5'9", a bit curvy on my bottom half, and a {stylish} full-time student and mom. 

A workable wardrobe should play two primary roles: It should make you look good, and it should work with your lifestyle. Quantity is not necessarily the goal here. You should focus on finding the best quality pieces you can afford for the core components, like pants, skirts, dresses, and jeans, and splurge on timeless jackets and handbags which you'll use for years. Rather than spending $30 on 5 pairs of jeans that don't really flatter you, and stretch out after a few wearings, save that money and get a great quality pair of jeans from your local Nordstrom's, where they will tailor them onsite if needed. 

If you fill your closet with 30 quality pieces which fit your body and lifestyle impeccably, you can put together hundreds of outfits, and readily change up the looks of your classic pieces with some fun accessories. A great pair of jeans or black pants can easily go from daycare to dinner date to work with a simple change of top and accessories. 

So let's get started! Remember, for your own wardrobe you should have at least 5-10 fantastic pieces in each category. If you've found a really amazing style that works fantastically for you, great. Buy it in a few colors. 

TOPS

Must Have's:

♦ Button Down Blouses: These can be silk, cotton, or a stretch-cotton blend, whatever works best for your body type and lifestyle. I do think that every woman should own at least one white (or ivory) and one black blouse. If the style works well for you, pick up a few more in a neutral pattern and bold color.

♦ Striped Tee: A classic, seasonless piece which wears well with both solids and other prints. Pick a classic navy and white or black and white for the most versatility. 

♦ Great fitting T-shirts: V-neck, scoop-neck, or crew, pick a style which drapes well, doesn't cling, and isn't too sheer. 

♦ "I feel pretty" Tops: Be it cowl neck, architectural, sequined, draped, or a deep-v neck, pick a few tops which are admittedly sexy and fun {but try not to go so sexy you'll scare the neighbors}. Then play with mixing them up with your everyday pieces. 

♦Tunics: Great for pairing with leggings or tights on casual days, make sure they have some style to them. Tailoring, draping, a nice knit, high-low hem, etc. Don't just wear a baggy t-shirt and call it a tunic. 

What I picked:

♦ Silk blouses in a variety of shapes and colors. I selected a classic black boyfriend blouse, a black and white star-print button down (small prints are very flattering, and this one is neutral and fun), an ivory tie-neck blouse, and a pink cowl-neck silk tee. I love silk  because it drapes beautifully, and instantly dresses up even your most worn in jeans.

♦ A black and white boatneck striped tee. Two words: classic and versatile.

♦ A chambray shirt. Slightly oversized and perfectly worn, this is a summer staple, and a great eclectic wardrobe workhorse. Try it with a fringed leather mini for a night out, or wear it open over a floaty silk dress. It adds a great sense of downtown casual-comfort while still looking tailored and put together.

♦ Shirttail Hem T-shirt. I am a big fan of shirttail and high-low hem t-shirts. They do double duty by gaining extra style points and downplaying my curvy hips. Love.

♦ Draped and Architectural Tunics. I am a major fan of edgy details. Asymmetry, draping, leather trim, studs, and architectural styling are all right up my alley. Asymmetry and draping have the added bonus of being incredibly flattering when executed properly. This draped tunic is no exception. A slight cowl neck and all-over ruching makes for a comfortable, sexy, and flattering top. Likewise, the scoop neck tunic with leather Y-back detail is comfy, simple, and sexy with a slight rocker vibe. Adore.

KNITS & BASICS

Must Have's:

♦ Classic Button Down Cardigans: V-neck or jewel-neck, hip-length or waist, pick a seasonless mid-weight merino or cotton blend. Silk-blends or cashmere would also be great, though they are a bit higher maintenance. 

♦ Cable Knit Cardigan in a classic beige or ivory: This classic will never go out of style, and is great for cozy days in, running errands, or weekends. 

♦ Draped-Front Cardigan: The V-necks newer, hipper, cousin. This super-flattering and comfy lightweight layer is a great, modern, cover-up for almost anything.

♦ An Open-Knit Sweater: Perfect for throwing over a dress to change the look, or for summer wear.

♦ V-neck or Boatneck Tunics/Sweaterdresses: These are a staple in my closet during the fall and winter (who am I kidding, and spring, and half of the "summer..." I live in Seattle!). I'll layer them over jeans or leggings, or wear them alone over tights. Simple, classic, and cozy.

♦ Basic Tanks and Tees. Wardrobe workhorses for layering under those sweaters. I love American Apparel and Gap for these basics.

What I Picked:

♦ V-neck Boyfriend Cardigans. Since I'm tall, I simply love the length of these cardigans. The lightweight knit and neutral colors I chose make these total closet workhorses. 

♦ Tunics Galore. What can I say, I love tunics. The length is perfect for me, as most "hip length" sweaters actually barely cover my waist and hit my bum at a very unflattering point. Most tunics hit me at the top of my thighs, which is a perfect length for layering. I'll wear them over just about any pant, and they also work wonders over leggings. Longer length tunics work as standalones to wear over tights. For me at 5'9", a tunic needs to be between 34-36" long to pull off wearing without pants. 

♦ Draped Cardigans. I love these. Stylish, and easy. Throw them over a nice t-shirt with jeans and you still look like you put some effort into your outfit. Throw them over a silky shift and your ready for a downtown cool date night.

♦ V-neck high-low hem sweater. Classic camel color goes with just about everything, but is an especially great counterpart to brights. The high-low hem gives it a modern dose of style.

♦ Neutral Open-Knit Sweater. Perfect soft color. Perfect for layering. Perfect for summer. 

♦ American Apparel unisex v-neck tees and tanks. My favorites are the tri-blend racerback and viscose sexuali-tanks (weird name, I know) as well as their tri-blend v-neck and sheer jersey deep v-neck t-shirts. I stock up on neutrals in these for all-year, everyday, and even gym wear.

DRESSES

Must Have's:

♦ Casual Knit Dress: This could be a mini, a maxi, v-neck, wrap-dress, crew-neck, boat-neck or anywhere in-between. Just make sure it is a nice, medium-weight knit, not too sheer, drapes well, is flattering and is comfy. 

♦ Something Sparkly: Really, every girl needs a little sparkle...a little glimmer and glow in her life. Sequins, shimmer, glitter, beading, whatever floats your boat. Extra credit for finding ways to work these little numbers into everyday wear. 

♦ Mid length dresses with Sleeves: For work, church, or whenever a little more modesty is needed.

♦ Fun, Party Dress: Self-explanatory. These should literally make you smile when you put them on.

♦ Chiffon or Silk Dress in a simple shape: Wardrobe workhorses. Can be dressed up or down with the right accessories.

♦ Formal Dresses/Black-tie {if needed}

What I Picked:

♦ Shift Dresses: The simple silhouette of the shift dress is timeless. It is also very flattering to most body types. I picked five shifts, one in ecru silk, one leather, one in a subtle neutral print, one black and white color-blocked and one sequined. I also loved the length of these dresses. At about 36" they are the perfect length to wear alone, or over pants. Again, versatility is key in a functional wardrobe!

 *HINT: If you are petite, make close personal friends with a fantastic tailor. A great seamstress can alter almost any knee-length (or even longer) dress, to that perfect mid-thigh length which will make them work the best for you. To find your "perfect" length, have a dress hemmed to the thinnest point of your thigh (usually, right between your knee and upper thigh). This length still allows  for enough modesty to wear alone (though I usually wear mine with tights, unless I'm somewhere really warm...definitely not Seattle!) but also will allow you to wear them tunic style layered over other items. 

♦ Classically Tailored Pencil Dress. Note the strategic tailoring. Draping at the waist hides a less-than perfect tummy (babies!) and accentuates the femininity of your waistline. The subtle asymmetry of the neckline adds interest and is extremely flattering. The neutral color, three quarter-sleeves, and knee-length make this piece classic for more modest occassions or work. 

♦ T-dress. I picked two. A slouchy T-dress, and a long-sleeve cowl-neck version. A nice cotton-knit blend gives these dresses a nice drape and isn't too sheer. The slightly above knee length is perfect for seasonless wearing, and neutral colors can be casual, but are also easy to dress up with accessories. If your exceptionally busty, beware of cowl-necks, as they can overly accentuate a full-chest. I definitely do not have this issue. {{Sigh}}.

♦ Classic Black Dress. Literally, this piece is timeless and can be worn anywhere, at anytime, for nearly any occasion except a super formal black-tie affair. The full length sleeves, perfect length, excellent tailoring and fabric, make this a perfect investment piece.  

♦ Silk Dresses: As I've already mentioned, I love silk. The drape, the luxury, the color saturation. It is also exceedingly versatile. I picked two silk dresses, one in a pinky nude, and the other a bold purple. Both dresses have great details, and the shape and style make them easy to dress up or down.

♦ Fun party dresses. So, aside from sequined splendor, the next things that screams fun to me is bold color. I love jewels tones, as they brighten my skin {{read:: make me look like I'm alive}}, but these royal colors really are highly flattering for almost all skin tones. I picked an asymmetrical draped cobalt dress, and a pink high-low spaghetti strap dress. Both are fun, and again, either can be dressed further up or down with the right accessories.

SKIRTS

Must Have's
♦ Pencil Skirts: Probably the most universally flattering and timeless silhouette of all, the pencil skirt can give shape to a boyish figure, visually slim and flatter a curvy figure, and simply enhance a balanced figure. Pick a length that hits just above or just below the knee, not right in the middle, for the most lengthening effect.

♦ Maxi Skirts: Today you can find maxi's in just about every fabric; silk, wool, cotton, jersey knit, and more. Pick the fabric that works best for your needs and lifestyle {Please don't pick a silk maxi if you're toting around toddlers. That is a dry cleaning disaster waiting to happen}. The length should just graze the floor with your shoes on. 

♦ Pleated Skirt: A classic preppy skirt which is highly flattering whether full, a-line, or pencil shaped. Wear it with a tucked-in classic button down to play up its preppy factor, or pair it with a funky leather trimmed top {or a chambray shirt} and biker boots for a downtown chic weekend look.

♦ Mid-length Knit Skirt: Great for casual comfy days, or dress it up with a sparkly top and heels, this is another great transitional piece.

♦ Something Fun/Funky: This is a personal party piece. It could be sequined, fringed, leather, whatever style and silhouette makes you happy and plays well with the rest of your wardrobe. 


What I Picked

♦ Pencil Skirts. I picked five amazing pencil skirts, as this is hands down my favorite shape. A sexy brown leather version, a classic black piece, a timeless tweed, and two fun, wearable prints: floral and polka dots. The leather and black skirts can be worn with just about anything, for most any occasion. Likewise with the tweed, floral, and polka dot pieces, but the classic, wearable, prints bring life and interest to your closet and are fun to mix and match with contrasting styles. Stripes or chambray anyone? 

♦ Maxis: I picked a bold, colored maxi in a favorite jewel tone, as well as a basic black maxi. Both are wearable knits which can easily go from day to night.

♦ Pleated High-low circle skirt. This skirt in a feminine blush shade will be a great counterpart to some of this closets edgier pieces. It can also be worn ladylike with a tucked in blouse, or for a barbie moment, paired with a bold pink top {Just be sure to keep accessories neutral!}.

♦ Knit Skirt: I picked two, the first a simple, slinky, subtly draped and striped version. Easily paired with boots and a t-shirt for casual days, but can also be easily dressed up by swapping boots for heels and a day bag for a sparkly clutch. The second is a super flattering draped front khaki skirt, which is a great summer day and office piece.

♦ Fringed Leather Mini. A really fun piece, this would be great with a simple tee or tank for a girls night out, or dress it down with some classic converse kicks, a denim jacket, and a classic white tee. You could even pair it with black opaque tights, a white button down, a blazer, and some classic suede pumps for an edgy-classic work look.

PANTS

Must Have's

♦ Classic Trousers: Wide leg or a slight bootleg are the most versatile and universally flattering silhouette. Pick a lightweight stretch wool for seasonless wear. You should have at least one black pair, and one other neutral pair, be it gray, white, navy, brown, or beige.

♦ Denim: This is a pretty personal category as comfort and fit are key, and everyone is different. Some basic tips- A slight bootleg can balance out wide hips, while a high waist skinny can add curves to a boyish figure or flatter a really curvy physique. Buttoned back pockets accentuate the rear, which is great for those without much of a backside. Straight leg is probably the hardest fit to wear and pull-off. Other fits include flare and wide leg. For the ultimate in versatility, pick a dark indigo wash as well as a nice, medium blue without excessive whiskering or fading. Too much fading and whiskering can accentuate trouble spots. Length is also important. The hem of your jeans should just graze the floor, so its best to have different pairs for wearing with both heels and flats.

♦ Colored Pants: A great alternative to khakis and a bold option when you just aren't feeling your regular jeans or black pants. I love these in a slim fit, as an alternative to skinny jeans or leggings. 

♦ Boyfriend Fit Trousers: A great counterpart to more feminine pieces, and a comfy weekend pant. Pick a neutral beige or khaki, or even a denim pair.

♦ Silk Pants: You ever have those days when you just don't want to change out of your pajamas? Well, these are the pants for those days. Highly comfortable and flattering, put on a T-shirt,a blazer, and your favorite pair of heels and your good to go.

♦ Leggings. I LOVE leggings. Comfortable and flattering, and now they come in a variety of materials. Cotton, Leather, Suede, Velvet, Corduroy... Wear with a tunic and heels, or throw on a tee and fun jacket, or pair them with a button down, a blazer, and heels for work. 

What I Picked

♦ Classic Pants. I picked both a timeless stretch wool bootleg pair, as well as a cropped tuxedo trimmed pair in black. You can literally wear these with almost anything, pretty much anywhere. I love the subtle glam that the satin trim gives the tuxedo pair. I also chose a bootleg version in a bold maroon hue, and a slouchy wide-leg pair in camel. 

♦ Jeans. I picked an indigo denim slim bootleg pair as well as a mid-rise skinny in a classic blue wash. I also chose a mid-rise flare in white, which is great for spring and summer.

♦ Colored Pants. I picked a classic red denim pair, as well as a bold purple cropped version in stretch cotton. Pair these with any top in your wardrobe and add a pair of leopard print heels for a fun day look. 

♦ Boyfriend Fit Trousers: I picked a neutral khaki pair which will go with just about anything for a tom-boyish vibe. 

♦ Silk Trousers. I picked a great pair of patterned silk pants, which are all the rage right now, as well as a neutral beige cargo version. The print I chose is highly versatile and will go with just about every top pictured. Remember to choose a small-scale print for the most slimming effect. If you are slim {or just really confident} to begin with, feel free to pick that super-hot huge floral print, and go for it. The beige silk pair is actually quite similar to a pair I already own and love, and I love to pair it with a tee, blazer and heels.

♦ Leggings. I'm going to let you in on a little secret: I have a *little* obsession with leather, and leggings. Combine the two, and I just might have my perfect pair of pants. So, I picked both a drool-worthy black leather pair, as well as a great warm brown suede pair. For everyday wear, I love these Hue 'Ultra' Wide Waistband Leggings. They are a perfect weight, not too thick and not sheer at all, and they wash up beautifully.

JACKETS

Must Have's

♦ The Classic Blazer: A perennial, seasonless, favorite. Pick a stretch, light to mid-weight wool, silk, or synthetic blend in a one or two button hip-length silhouette for the most versatility.

♦ The Ladylike Jacket: A great topper for dresses, a great way to dress up jeans and a tee, or a fun counterpart to edgy leather leggings, these are another classic and highly versatile piece.

♦ The Trench: The classic outerwear piece. Pick a neutral beige or black version in a weatherproof cotton-poly blend for ultimate versatility. Consummately flattering for all figures, this piece can be worn over anything. Timeless.

♦ The Anorak Great for adding a tomboyish, sporty look to your outfits. Pick a modern military style or go with the classic anorak look with a waist and hem drawstring. 

♦ The Leather Motorcycle Jacket: Another classic piece. This is the ultimate topper to add a bit of edge to an ensemble. Wear it over a sparkly dress out at night, or throw it over a floaty feminine maxi for a chic day look. Pick a neutral black, brown, or gray, but make sure it is high quality leather and fits slim, but not too tight. The length should hit you right at, or just below your waist. 

♦ The Denim Jacket: Again, a timeless style, but this piece is for dressing down ensembles. Give an instant casual vibe to your dressiest pieces by topping it with a denim jacket.

What I Picked 

♦ Blazers. I picked a classic black one-button blazer, and a structured light gray synthetic version. Both are seasonless weights and can be paired with any top and bottom, or tossed over a dress for a finished look. I also picked a fun, draped, black blazer which is structured yet edgy. A fun piece over a tee, this version can also be worn multiple ways: Buttoned, unbuttoned, and upside down for totally different looks. 

♦ Ladylike Jackets. I love this style and picked three. One in a bold orange-red color, one classic chanel inspired white style with black trim, and a fun chevron striped double breasted version. All can be paired with just about any outfit for a feminine, tailored, finish. 

♦ Trench. I picked a classic short trench in a cool beige. Wear it open for a casual look, or buttoned and knotted at the waist.

♦ Anorak. I picked a classic military style with adjustable sleeves. A great piece to give casual edge to your feminine dresses, or even tone down that sparkly shift for daytime wear. 

♦ The Leather Jacket. I picked a pretty perfect, black lambskin version, the ultimate in downtown chic versatility. Nuff' said.

♦ Denim: I picked a slightly cropped, slim version of the traditional denim jacket. The traditional, hip length version is a bit too casual feeling for me, and simply isn't flattering on my tall frame.

ACCESSORIES

Must Have's 

♦ Jewelry: Well, duh. We all need a little *bling* to personalize our fabulous outfits. For everyday pick some wearable everyday studs and medium sized hoops, and a few simple bracelets and necklaces. You also need a few statement pieces; these can be rings, necklaces, bold earrings, whatever suits you. 

♦ Sunglasses: Pick a classic style which flatters your face shape. Click here for a helpful article to help you choose the best sunglasses style for your face.

♦ Watch: You are either a watch person or your not. If you are, you know what suits you, and have more than one. If you aren't, simply pick a classic style in silver or gold, which is functional and works well with the jewelry you own. 

♦ Scarves: I love scarves. They are a great way to add a color or print to an otherwise neutral wardrobe. For the ultimate luxury, pick up one of White + Warren's Cashmere travel wraps. They can be worn as a scarf, or as a wrap over a formal dress, and they are oh-so-soft. 

♦ Belts: Give shape to that simple shift, or cinch over a sweater or blazer for a fun accent. Belts are for more than keeping your pants up. They deftly define the waist and can add distinct panache to an outfit. 

What I Picked 

♦ Jewelry. I like a variety of styles, but choose primarily simple, architectural pieces. I chose a pair of gold hoops and several pairs of studs for everyday, and some fun chandeliers for statement earrings. I also chose a versatile everyday pendant necklace and two edgier statement pieces. I chose several stackable bracelets in both gold and silver, and one chunky woven gold bracelet which I simply adore. Stella & Dot and  J Crew are my go-to sources for great jewelry. 

♦ Sunglasses. I chose two classic styles the aviator and the wayfarer, one in gold and one in black. 

♦ Watch. I am a sucker for big watches, and this gold chronograph style by Michael Kors is right up my alley. Looks great alone, or worn with bracelets.

♦ Scarves: I picked one geometric print scarf in black and white, but in reality, I have a huge collection of scarves, in a spectrum of colors and prints. Pick a few favorite colors, and some classic patterns such as florals or animal prints to start your collection. Forever 21 and Target at great sources for budget-friendly items.

♦ Belts. I chose a classic, medium width belt in cognac brown as well as a bold neon pink skinny belt. The brown belt is an uber functional wardrobe piece, and can be belted over almost anything or simply worn with jeans. The neon pink skinny belt is great to add a pop of color or contrast to just about anything.

HANDBAGS

Must Have's
♦ A Feminine Structured Shoulder Bag: This should be a timeless piece in leather. Pick a neutral color {I'd go with black or beige}, and should have a comfortable strap. Many newer, high-quality versions have adjustable chain straps which take them from shoulder bag to cross-body.

♦ A Classic Satchel: Again, timeless is the word. Invest in a quality piece with great structure and hardware, in a neutral shade for the most versatility.

♦ The Everyday Bag: This should be your go-to basic. Pick a neutral shade for the most versatility, and pick a shape which works with the style of your clothes, holds all your necessities, and is comfortable for all day use.

♦ The Tote: For when you need to carry more than will fit in your normal purse. Larger than your everyday bag, but still versatile enough to work for day-to-day use.

♦ The Clutch: Have fun here. Pick a color which will match the majority of your go-to formal or date-night ensembles. Glitz and Glamour are welcome. Your clutch should fit at minimum your phone, a compact, a lipstick, and your cash/I.D./credit card.

♦ The Colorful Daybag: Something to swap out for your Everyday bag when a neutral just doesn't do your outfit justice.

What I Picked 
♦ The Shoulder Bag: A classic quilted, chain strap shoulder bag in black. This beautiful piece will easily go from errands, to meetings, to dinner.

♦ The Satchel: This is a quintessential version of this timeless piece. Beautiful leather and hardware, and a classic cognac shade. LOVE.

♦ The Everyday: I chose two a structured black leather version, which can easily be tossed over your shoulder, or carried as a satchel, and a white duffel. With a nod to both the classic bowler's bag and the doctor's bag, the black bag is as functional as it is versatile. Likewise, the white duffel is a perfect size, and works perfectly with spring and summers softer palettes.

♦ The tote: I picked a fun tote in a soft neutral taupe shade. Constructed of leather with a chain strap and removable accent bow, this has room for a laptop, magazines, and your necessities. As at home at work as it is at the beach or functioning as a carry-on.

♦ The Clutch: I went for glitz. I chose a copper toned glitter embellished version. Perfect to dress up any look.

♦ The Colored Bag: I chose a studded duffel in a classic, bold red. The perfect pop of color. 

SHOES

Shoes are quite possibly the most personal part of a woman's wardrobe. The styles which will work for you are highly lifestyle dependent. I'm going to give you an overview of the shoes I think every woman should have in her wardrobe. Keep in mind that heel heights range from flat to kitten-heel {1/2 to 1 inch}, to mid-heel {2-3"}, to high {3.5-6"}. So if a leopard heel stilletto doesn't work for your lifestyle {or basic comfort requirements} find a lower heeled, or flat version. I'm not going to go into detail here on what I picked, I think its most important that you know what the essentials are for versatility.

Must Have's

♦ The Black Pump: Pick suede or leather, and if you choose a higher heel, your feet will thank you if you find a pair with a subtle platform. This is the ultimate basic for a feminine, work appropriate wardrobe. However, the right pair is equally at home on date night.

♦ The Bold Color: Pump, wedge, or flat, pick a great color which compliments much of your wardrobe. A great way to add a pop of color to a neutral ensemble, or a basic pair of jeans. You may find yourself addicted to these, as I did. If you're a fan of heels, Steve Madden makes a great, the "Traisie", which is an affordable and surprisingly comfortable version which I've purchased in several colors. J Crew is my go-to source for quality, comfortable, and colorful flats--check out the "Cece"!

♦ The Animal Print: Python and Leopard print are perennial fashonista favorites, and are a great way to add a super stylish finish to any ensemble. I LOVE my animal prints.

♦ The Nude Peep-Toe Pump: While I would also recommend that you have this style in black patent leather, the Nude is an absolute essential. This leg-lengthening silhouette is essential for styling boldly colored outfits, and is a spring and summer must.

♦ The Wedge: Wedge heels are having a fashion moment, and rightly so. The height of a heel, with all day comfort and wearability. Pick a neutral shade {black, gray, taupe, beige, camel, brown} with a fun detail, like studs, to add punch to your errands outfits.

♦ The Bootie: A fall wardrobe staple, the bootie has become the downtown girls choice for a chic, edgy counterpart to girly dresses. I like to have both a traditional bootie (cut below the ankle) for dressier styles, as well as an ankle-boot around for dressing down a bit.

♦ The Sandal: Pick a neutral shade, or go for a metallic gold or silver. A must for summer and vacations.

♦ The Strappy Heel: For your formal dresses, or to make your jeans and a tee date worthy, you need a pair of strappy heels. Pick gold or silver for the dressiest vibe and most styling versatility.

♦ Flats: A must for running errands, or when you're otherwise going to be doing lots of walking. There are so many stylish pairs to choose from today.

♦ The Knee High Heeled Boot: A must for fall and winter wear, pick a high quality leather version in a neutral color with a mid-heel for the most versatility and comfort.

♦ The Flat Boot: Flat boots are another must for fall and winter. Essentials for when you need to do some walking, and I love me a good old biker boot. A great way to edge up an outfit {Pair them with a feminine dress, or a Tee and leggings}, but for a more classic style choose an equestrian style riding boot.

♦ Everyday Ol' Reliables: For me, these would be converse sneaks. These are your "when you are just going for comfort and function" kicks. For summer, glitter Tom's are a fun, dressier option.

♦ Weather Appropriate Kicks: If you live in a wet climate like Seattle, you need some rain boots. We also get some snow every now and then, so snow boots are helpful. 

JUST FOR FUN

Last up, every gal should have a few pieces in her closet which make her smile when she looks at them, and make her feel fabulous when she wears them. These items are not meant to be practical, though some may be, they are meant to be fun... Just make sure that you actually wear them! 

So there you have it, the basics of building a functional wardrobe. Hopefully this has helped you reconsider new ways of styling items you may already have in your closet, and I certainly hope it helps make your closet work harder for you. 

Getting dressed should be an enjoyable experience, clothes should be fun! Of course they have different functions to serve, but every item in your wardrobe should be a piece you truly like {if not love!}, and which fits well. Try and recapture a bit of that joy we had as little girls playing dress-up. Take the stress out of it. Do yourself a favor and follow these steps. Make your closet, and your clothes, really work for you. There will be one more post to follow on maintaining your wardrobe by adding seasonal updates, so look forward to that! 

♥ Jen

View and shop all of these items by collection via polyvore.com.

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