♦ 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
