Getting dressed should be easy, but it isn’t always so.
How many times have you stood in front of your closet staring at your clothes waiting for the cute outfit muse to visit? On days when she is a no-show, here are a few reliable must-haves to help give you that Monday morning jolt you need on days when the fashion light bulb just won’t switch on.
Think of them as the ever reliable building blocks or foundation on which to build post-worthy OOTDs; cute on their own but also basic enough to be in the background when the muse does appear.
Take note: As seasons, bodies and lifestyles change, updating to different silhouettes/materials of these basics every few years is expected. But, rest assured, these ten essential styles will always remain evergreen in your closets.
1. BLAZER
A blazer can instantly elevate an outfit from so-so to pulled together.
Black is always good but it can be in whatever color suits you and your wardrobe best.
Try this season’s pastel colors and slouchier silhouette for a fresh, relaxed style that will brighten up your wardrobe and your mood.
2. WHITE LONG SLEEVED SHIRT
Oversized or just right, rolled up sleeves or buttoned at the cuffs — you really can’t go wrong with this one.
Wear over jeans, formal pants, shorts or as a tunic — it can even work as a swimsuit cover-up in a pinch.
Think Carolina Herrera, this style icon has even worn this classic top to gala events!
A true essential — it never goes out of style.
3. SOFT, FLOWY DRESS
Sometimes you just need to wear something pretty to feel pretty.
A soft, frilly dress could be just what the day calls for.
Wear it with sneakers to dial it down or go all out feminine and pair with strappy sandals.
4. DARK UNDISTRESSED JEANS
We love our faded and shredded jeans, but dark undistressed jeans deserve love and attention too.
A true blue pair sans holes will match well with almost anything and can go almost anywhere.
Choose a style that works best for your body type.
Remember: fit trumps trends particularly for jeans.
5. BASIC TEE
This sounds pretty basic, but the perfect white tee can be more elusive than jeans that fit perfectly.
There is no one perfect white tee; it varies from person to person.
Grab more than one when you find the one that checks all your boxes; grab it in black and the latest nude/blush shades too while you’re at it.
6. STRIPED TOP
A woven button up or a tee. Choose from the two or have both. Stripes are classic and no closet should be without them.
Freshen up the look by choosing exaggerated dimensions or interesting details — buttons, slits, patches or eye-catching cuffs — to add personality to this nautical favorite.
7. BLACK PANTS
Need we say more? The options are endless— straight, tapered, wide legs; flat or pleated front; cropped or full length.
Choose what works best for your shape and style.
This reliable go-to will take you from day to night, office to party, casual to formal effortlessly. And it will always look great with sandals or heels.
8. HOODIE
The lines between clothing categories have blurred, and hoodies have long crossed over from athletic wear to everyday mainstream.
Throw one over a dress, skirt, jeans and a tee— almost anything really. It will add a layer (pun intended) of interest and keep you warm when needed.
Tip: for a “dressier” look, choose luxe fabric (cashmere, merino wool, silk, linen blends) instead of cotton material to up the ante for this sporty staple.
9. PRINTED BOTTOMS
Prints are a nice way to add a twist to your wardrobe and to take staples in a different direction.
Pick a print, any print— as long as it speaks to you and makes you happy.
There are many out there ranging from subtle to loud. Skirt or pants? Slim or full?
Your comfort, literally and figuratively, is key.
10. BLACK DRESS
Last but not least is the popularly known “LBD” or the “Little Black Dress.” Little or otherwise, a black dress is one of the easiest ways to get dressed.
Pretty much just slip into it and you’re done. Depending on how you style and accessorize it, this trusty staple can take you anywhere from the grocery store to the office to a night out.
Choose a dress that is versatile enough for day and night, and accentuates what you like best about your body.
Love your legs? Go with one on the shorter side. Adore your arms? Pick something sleeveless.
There you have it— 10 trusty wardrobe pieces that can help make getting dressed easy peasy. Use the list as a starting off point to build on — inject your personality with accessories, dress up or down, use together or pair with more trendy pieces — this core wardrobe will take you through decades, fit the needs of your current lifestyle and work seamlessly with your latest fashion aesthetic.
So get up, dress up (muse or no muse!) and show up. These ten hardworking essentials will get you where you need to go.
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