The secret of any great wardrobe is twofold: basics and personal style. It's like building a house; you can't pick the paint until you've laid the foundation. And if the foundation is bad, it doesn't matter how nifty your trinkets look when the house collapses. So if you've got the wardrobe essentials, then you can put your personal stamp on it.
Obviously, you need to keep several factors in mind when building your essential wardrobe: your body, your climate, and your lifestyle. As cute as they are, strappy stilettos aren't a good match for schlepping through a blizzard. Likewise, merino is so not a good idea at the Equator. I recommend that you take these factors into account while going through your closet and pulling out all the basic pieces you have. Once you have an inventory, determine what needs to be built upon, and what you should parse from your closet. After the basics are mastered, styling and personalizing is a cinch. (Of course, organization at all stages is key!)
As a Florida girl, my basics will differ from many of you. Here's my wardrobe essentials....
FOUNDATION* Bras - I get sized by a local shop twice a year. The lifespan of most bras is six months before the band starts to go. My fitter recommends a new bra that hooks on the outermost hooks, so I can extend the life by going in on the hooks. I recommend three colors (nude, black, white) in each of three styles: strapless, push-up, and racerback.
* Panties - I firmly believe there is no such thing as too many panties. After the three main colors (nude, white, black) in preferred styles (thong, string bikini, boyshort), you can go crazy with it. Just remember to watch the shelf life on these too!
TOPS* Tanks - Multiples in black and white. Straps that are wide enough to cover bra straps, or else have a bra top built into the tank. These are summer and fall lifesavers. Just be careful of deodorant marks.
* Tees - Multiples of these in black, white and gray. I prefer the look of V-necks, but I also have ones with a U-neck.
* Button Down - At least have one of these. White, black or a jewel tone.
BOTTOMS* Jeans - In this day and age, denim is king. I think a good basis for jeans would be 1 white pair (any cut), 5 dark wash bootcuts or trousers, 2 dark wash skinnies, 1 dark wash flare, and 1 dark wash wide leg.
* Dress pant - I like to have one pair of muted gray plaid, wide leg dress slacks. For the rare occasions I go to a trade conference or have a meeting with creative directors.
* Leggings - These are my version of sweatpants. Pairs in black, navy and gray. Some are for casual errands, others are for working out.
* Shorts - Mostly Bermuda length, although I have a few dress shorts with higher waistbands and hems. 1 pair khaki, 1 pair gray, 2 pairs black, 2 pairs white, and 1 pair of skorts. I have a few terrycloth shorts for working out.
* Skirts - Maxi's are another sweatpant alternative, primarily in black and navy. Knee-length and A-line in black, muted gray, and white. Pencils in black, navy and white.
DRESSES* LBD - The beloved little black dress. I prefer a deep V-neck and back, A-line, full skirted in a delicate, flowing fabric.
* Wrap Dress - At least one in black, maybe patterned. At or just above the knee.
* Sheath Dress - At least one in a neutral color.
OUTERWEAR* Leather Jacket - Splurge item, if used a lot. I can make do with cheapies and knockoffs. Sometimes can get lucky at the thrift stores or flea market.
* Blazers - Neutrals. Way to pull an otherwise casual outfit together. Nice to have on hand.
* Cardigan - Any light to medium weight sweater for office work. Again, in neutrals.
* Gloves - Handy (
*kneeslapkneeslapkneeslap*) and great for sudden snaps, but are always getting lost.
ACCESSORIES* Belts - 1 black, 1 brown, 1 metallic.
* Purses - 1 black leather, 1 brown leather, 1 metallic. Clutch preferably.
* Scarves - Neutrals. Neck kerchief, large oval, and bandana sized.
SHOES* Pumps - Black. Round toe. Stiletto.
* Tennis shoes - For workouts.
* Sandals - Wedges and thongs. Sand doesn't like leather, so mostly cork or fabric.
* Flats - 1 pair black ballet flats and 1 pair pink/nude ballet flats.
There you have it! It's seems like so much, but with this foundation, you can do so much more with your style.
