Back to Basics
When picking out an outfit, do you always find yourself saying, “I have nothing to wear!” According to msucares.com, “Women wear only 10 percent of the items in their closets 90 percent of the time!” This happens to the best and worst of us.
Blame it on the trends. From the time we were kids, we would always purchase clothes that were trendy for that moment. Years later, they no longer fit our taste or our lifestyle. For example, remember the boho trend? Were you among the many girls who purchased lots of bohemian skirts, only to have them gather dust at the back of our closet years later because you’ve realized that you’re not really a flower child?
When picking items for your wardrobe, stick to two basic rules: a) pick clothes that suit your individual taste and personality, b) don’t copy everything you see on magazines, and c) Fill up your wardrobe with basics before purchasing everything else.
Rule C is the most important fashion rule that most women don’t realize. Basic wardrobe pieces are classic items that will never go out of style and will work with any look. Project Runway’s Tim Gunn devised the Ten Essential Wardrobe Elements, which works for women of all personalities and sizes:
1. The little black dress – Whether you like it short or long, make sure you pick one that flatters your figure. This is the dress that you can wear over and over again and will still make you feel like a star.
2. Trench coat – While our two-season country isn’t accustomed to trench coats, you can still pull it off by picking a classic or neutral color that goes with anything. It’s perfect for chilly, rainy days.
3. White shirt – You may have a lot of white tops in your closet, but it’s hard to find the one piece that flatters your upper body and comes in a classic cut. Find one that highlights your assets and hides your flaws. For example, the round neck or turtle neck shirt will not flatter women with ample chests, while a v-neck top will make you look slimmer.
4. Dress pants – This piece can go from office to mall, depending on what you pair it with. Black is your best option because it flatters most figures and goes with everything.
5. Jeans – We all have jeans, but how many of us have one pair that makes us feel fabulous, no matter how often we wear it? The classic low-rise, flared jeans is what flatters most figures, and it has stayed in the fashion radar since the ’70s.
6. Sweater – When the temperature goes low, you need an emergency sweater that you can just throw on any outfit. Cashmere is a great option, but may be pricey for some.
7. Skirt – Pick a classic cut that can be used in both the office and at a party.
8. Day dress – Skip the prints and loud colors, as you want to be able to use this dress more than once. Pick a knee-length or longer cut so you can wear it for any day event—whether it’s at the mall, a garden wedding, or just casual lunch with friends.
9. Blazer – Many blazers tend to make women look too masculine, so make sure you pick one that accentuates your silhouette and waistline. When paired with business skirts, it’s great for the office. When worn over jeans, it’s casual chic.
10. Sweat suit alternative – Unless you’re going to the gym, you should avoid wearing sweat suits or jogging pants in the daytime—even if you’re just going to the grocery.
If you need a casual item that makes you feel comfortable on those lazy days, your best choices are khaki pants, cotton shorts, or even a cotton dress.
