Recently I was talking to my
friend on skype, where she mentioned that she did not know what to wear. I
immediately started picturing the sartorial district in London, and saw all the
wonderful fashion that was at her fingertips. How could she amend this thought
process and alleviate this problem? So I got to thinking, I would do a blog on my
top wardrobe essentials for building an ideal functional wardrobe; that is not
only functional, but stylish as well. And so my head went into gear, and turned
for a few days. I pulled apart my wardrobe and looked at how I kept my wardrobe
functional and concluded what are the 10 essential items.
Keeping a library is something
I’ve always done . In so doing I have created many wardrobe lists for myself in
the past based on books and magazines I have read. Editing and tweaking is definitely
in order as I continue to gather new ideas; especially in these credit crunchy
recessiontastic times. It seems people are slowly starting to change the way
they consume fashion. Making a “list” in customizing and recycling old clothes is
becoming increasingly popular. For this post I will lay out the essentials and
for future posts I will lay out the basics, staples and standards that will help create various looks.
Blouses
Pussy bow, lace, printed
and sheer are favourites of mine. It all depends on your style, lifestyle or taste.
Gravitating to different styles is really dependent on your personality. Be
sure to have a few in your closet though. These are perfect for layering, date
nights or transitions from work to dinner. 
Boatneck Nautical/Sailor Top
If you are a casual or a more casual elegant dresser, this is perfect
in maintaining your style but will raise your style factor by looking very
effortless. If creatively accessorized this is a very versatile top to have.
Can be worn under cardigans or jackets because in reality this is a very simple
top but is quite chic.
White button down shirt
This is the ultimate item to include. I love the boyfriend
oversized look because it can be worn tucked in, over miniskirts, with jeans or
leggings. There are endless ways to wear this shirt. But if you’re not like me and you prefer a more fitted look go for it.
Cardigan
The cardigan has been immortalized by the American children's
television personality, Mr. Rogers. Is it bad I remember or even know who he
is? A cardigan is an essential piece that can be dressed up or
down. There are so many ways to incorporate it in your wardrobe. I like pairing
my cardigan over a pencil dress and then cinch it with a skinny belt to give it
a more cohesive look or with boyfriend jeans and a crew neck or button down shirt
and may other ways . Try to get these in various colours so you can play
around. I suggest getting the not so
luxurious brands, because once they have been worn, you could easily replace them.
All in all cardigans can be paired with skirts, jeans, dresses, dress pants,
denim cut offs you get the jist.
Leather Jackets
There are a plethora of different styles in the market from: hip
length, to full length, to ¾ and even in the trench coat. But a short leather
jacket is way more versatile as it is allows more freedom to pull casual to
dressy/stylish outfits. Black, camel or even jewel tones are great to have in
your closet. (I personally like the motorcycle look). Be sure that it fits well
through the shoulders and the sleeves hit just below your wrist bone.
Trench Coats
Trench Coats now come in
various colours and styles (I own a lavender and black trench), but a classic
khaki trench can be paired with anything; from jeans, dresses and skirts for
either day or evening wear. These coats are only ideal in warmer climates, for
protection when it rains but are really good for winter also. The coat is
usually belted which gives a feminine touch as it also cinches your waist,
showing off your figure while it protects. Once you have gotten the classic khaki
you could seek other colours including cheetah prints. Other classical tones
are black, white or navy.
LBD/Little Black Dress
This style dates to the 1920’s from Coco Chanel design. It’s worth
choosing a quality natural fabric, rather than a cheap synthetic one. My dress I
had bought in 2004 from Marc Jacobs (on sale of course lol!) and I still work it.
The LBD is meant to be elegant whether dressed up with accessories such as:
belts, jewellery or worn with a jacket. You never know when
you’ll come across something you can’t imagine not having in your closet for
those unplanned, last minute occasions so be sure to get one that calls your
name.
The Wrap Dress
A very versatile piece to
have in your wardrobe, this look is very slimming and can be dressed up or down.
These look best on curvier, bustier women…why?... Because it enhances the bust while accentuating and
slimming the waist and also flattening the stomach. But if you are on the
slimmer but curvy side try to purchase one with less fabric. I really consider
this dress to have alot of mileage, as it can be worn in so many different settings and you
definitely get cost per wear. Try to
include one or two in your wardrobe.
Trousers/Dress Pants
Trousers come in dressy or casual styles. A good quality pair of trousers is an ideal
addition to your wardrobe. Try to get
colours like: camel/tan, black or grey. To elongate your legs, go for a wider leg
and to pull off a professional look go for slimmer legs. Trousers look great
with heels; so grab your favourite pair.
Jeans
Jeans will never go out of
style but like other items in fashion styles come and go. This is tricky for
some who may read this blog and think I am only for the frugal. Not at all. The
quality of the jeans always boils down to fit and durability and although a
quality pair of designer jeans is more than worth the price; getting the right fit
and style is really very important. Find a pair that hug your body in the most
flattering way imaginable, and also a pair you could wear for many years to
come. These are styles that should be considered:
Skinny Jeans, these I would recommend
for those who are of the thinner to medium built. Although of late they have now
begun constructing skinny’s for plus sizes carefully placing pockets and a lot of
consideration in the cut. Skinny Jean styles include the use of nylon and
spandex with a tapered leg. A dark Wash is best and versatile because it can be
worn with various tops and with different colours but you could jazz up your
collection with staple colours like: greys, whites and a faded wash. Coloured
jeans are fun and playful pieces to own too. (I personally love purple, yellow
and green). The versatility of jeans make them a must have as a foundation
piece in your wardrobe. Expand your possibilities by including boot cut,
straight leg, a pair to wear with flats and one with heels, and don’t forget
boyfriend and trouser jeans as well.
xxo
G
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