Style: are you ready?

Every now and again we have to do a wardrobe check. 

Bette Davis & her eyes wearing a classic leopard-print something or other.
Bette Davis & her eyes wearing classic leopard-print.

It’s not easy to let go of some clothing. I’ve been going through my things and keeping on hand “only” those items which look good, fit properly (= well made), which is mostly comfortable, classic clothing mixed with some trendy pieces. Which leaves me with only two remaining outfits in my closet...but I believe if you have some key attire you can dress it up with great accessories like belts, scarves and all kinds of jewelery.  Of course, shoes and bags are important too, but like houses first you build a foundation.

Stripes are always "on trend" and tend to bring out your "inner French-girl"
Stripes are always “on trend” and tend to bring out your “inner French-girl

Certain things make it so much simpler to get ready when you’re in a hurry to get out the door. No more “what on earth am I going to wear” if you have a few go-to (= basic) pieces that can be mixed and matched with ease.  So here are some wardrobe staples to make it easier.  You probably already have most of them in your closet.

Not saying you should have only these staples in your wardrobe, but if you have them, you’re pretty much ready for anything. And I like to be ready for anything!

Starting with:

THE PERFECT WHITE T
THE PERFECT WHITE T SHIRT(s)

Just like dating men & vice versa, there is loads to choose from but you have to weed through a ton before you come across a good one. Having said that, V-neck or crew, slim fit or oversized, finding the right white tee can be tricky, but it’s totally worth the hunt. This staple is casual and comfortable without looking sloppy, and is perfect for pairing with everything from your favorite jeans to under a business suit.  Buy in multiples.

A NAVY BLAZER
A NAVY BLAZER

If you think blazers are limited to the boardroom, think again. This structured topper is actually pretty versatile, as seen above. Black might read a touch more corporate, but in navy, a tailored blazer (worn with everything from dress pants to boyfriend jeans) says you mean business but also have a keen sense of style.

WHITE BUTTON DOWN SHIRT
WHITE BUTTON DOWN SHIRT

How cool does this girl look? A slightly loose fitting button-down is relaxed, comfortable and super chic, in a crispy, borrowed-from-the-boys way.

CLASSIC TRENCH
CLASSIC TRENCH for Elements meets Elegance.

A timeless addition to any outfit, the classic trench never goes out of style. It also works for pretty much anyone, regardless of personal style. Think: an elegant Audrey Hepburn strolling along the Seine.  The one in photo is a Burberry but there are many other styles with many price points.

TAILORED BLACK PANTS
TAILORED BLACK PANTS

Various black pants will take you from work to the weekend, depending on how you style them. The difference between these and any other pair of pants is tailoring: You want them to be fitted but not overly tight.

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SILK CAMISOLE for LAYERING
SILK CAMISOLE for LAYERING

Whether peeking out from beneath a blazer or worn on its own, a silky camisole can read sweet (tucked into that A-line midi skirt) or sexy (tucked into a curve-hugging pencil skirt), depending on your mood.

DENIM JACKET
DENIM JACKET

Another all-season piece, a jean jacket adds an element of cool to any outfit. Draped over your shoulders with a breezy summer dress, it’s both relaxed and utilitarian.

WHITE PANTS (optional)
WHITE PANTS (optional) but super chic
JEANS that fit well in all the right places
JEANS that fit well in all the right places
LITTLE BLACK DRESS
LITTLE BLACK DRESS (es)

Ever gotten a last-minute dinner or drinks invitation and had no time to choose your outfit? That’s where the LBD comes in. A total workhorse, this should be a dress you’re comfortable in and can wear a bunch of different ways for a bunch of different occasions. On its own it’s fairly plain and simple, so you can also get a lot of wear out of it without anyone noticing.

Which brings me to some other options like a Tuxedo Jacket, Dressy Dress (for those special occasions) and different length size skirts.  And something edgy like:

Maybe a little SHOW STOPPER like Gene Tierney is wearing
Maybe a little faux SHOW STOPPER like Gene Tierney is wearing

Anything else?

 

 

 

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