The Basics

The Basics – Building Your Closet

When developing a wardrobe every woman must be sure to own a few standard pieces. Fahionistas will refer to these pieces as anything from the basics to the bones to the indispensables, etc. We will call these the basics for this article. These items provide the building blocks of a wardrobe. Since they are your foundation it is not only ok, but suggested that you invest in them. Money is not wasted on these because they are timeless, versatile, and they are always appropriate. Your basics should include a good pair(s) of jeans, a pair(s) of dark pants, a little Black Dress, a Trench coat, a standard white T-shirt, a button down, a camisole, and a cashmere sweater.

So let’s have a closer look at each piece to understand what to look for when purchasing one of these items. The pieces are as follows:

Jeans: The key to selecting jeans is the fit. Your basic jeans should skim the body, that means you should not be swimming in them, but you should not have to have someone assist you in putting them on either. Anyone who has ever shopped for jeans can vouch for the fact that a plethora of designers exists, and they truly all fit a little different. Unfortunately the best way to find the perfect jean is to grin and bear the fitting room. Trust me it’s worth it.

** A side note for jeans. You may want to be sure that you have a pair that can be worn with heels for dressier occasions, and another to wear with flats.

Seven for all Mankind – Boot Cut in Sri Lanka

Dark Pants: Dark pants can be worn for numerous occasions. This is a standard building block for anyone with a job, or who wants to look a little more serious than possible with jeans. Again two pairs are suggested. One for day that is tailored quite well and in a nice sturdy fabric such as a wool blend. The second pair should work for evening. This pair you might want to be a little looser cut and you might choose a fabric with a bit more sheen.

Armani Collezioni

Little Black Dress: If I had nickel for every time I heard this phrase I might be able to pay our national debt. So what is it about the black dress that everyone loves so much? Versatility that is what it is all about. The right black dress can take you from work to evening. The right black dress is comfortable and chic. I personally have a black dress for work or a night out that errs on the conservative side and another FOR A NIGHT OUT!! Make sure you love that little dress and instantly feel beautiful. For those who do not look great in black look for charcoal, navy, or a chocolate brown all colors are timeless.
Narcisco Rodrigues Satin – Striped Sheath Dress


Trench Coat: The trench is not just for rainstorms. This versatile coat looks great with most anything. The trench was originally invented by Burberry for the British soldiers, however, this piece has evolved into women’s’ wardrobes providing a timeless look that can easily be dressed up or down. Choose a trench in a neutral color such as beige, or black for starters. Trenches can range in weight as well. Look for a lighter weight trench for spring and cool summer nights, and a heavier weight for winter.

Behnaz Sarafpour Organic Trench coat


White T’ Shirt: A casual must. The T is easy to wear with jeans or under a trench coat, blazer or sweater. Please bear in mind the T’ shirt is a casual basic and is not appropriate in most offices. Another thing to note with a T is this happens to be one basic were it is not recommended to spend a lot. Depending on the weight of the T (beefy to feather-light) you can find these just about anywhere. Personally I think the Gap still makes a great T’ shirt.
The Gap – New V-neck T


Button down collared shirt: A button sdown shirt is certainly not just for men. This is so versatile it can be worn with jeans to look casual, your dark pants for work, or even a skirt for an evening out. Again finding a great button down is all about patience. Be sure it fits in the shoulder area, with the sleeve beginning right at that point where your shoulder meets your arm. You can find the button down at numerous price points. I would stay on the moderate side of the scale with this piece.
Ellen Tracy Stretch Poplin Shirt


Camisole: A great camisole can dress up even the most boring of outfits. A camisole can offer little hits of color, or embellishment such as lace, or ruffles. I suggest a few camisoles for your wardrobe. These again are fantastic under blazers, sweaters etc. These can be worn with jeans for a fun casual look, or with dark pants or a skirt for a more business appropriate or evening look. You can find camisoles everywhere from high-end stores to discount retailers. I suggest keeping the price moderate so that you can have numerous pieces. Also choose the camisoles in colors that you like, this is a place to add some additional expression!
Express Satin Racer Back Top Embellished


Cashmere Sweater: Cashmere is not cheap but it is worth the extra dollars. Cashmere can be found in range of garments from a cardigan, to a turtleneck to a simple crewneck, etc. For your first piece I suggest a neutral color to match the rest of your clothes. Once you have your “closet base” do please play with color. Buy a sweater in maroon if you look great in maroon; buy one in teal if that’s your color. You get the idea. Have fun with color.

Autumn Cashmere Basic Crew Spectrum

Again, these items are your basics. Gather these items within your closet and then get ready to shop for the items / accessories that really allow your personality to shine through. As always if you have any questions or would like help picking your specific items do contact me at lvstyleconsultant@gmail.com, www.lvstyleconsultant.com.