In a 4 year span I made two pretty drastic moves that required me to retool my wardrobe. The first was from sunny Miami to Maryland. After living in Miami for 5 years, most of my sweaters were either too small, too ragged, or just not the right style (not many teenagers dress the same as 24 year olds). I spent the next year buying jackets, long-sleeve tops, etc. Then, two years later, I moved to Syracuse where it gets frigid. Jackets are necessary year round and fall and spring often times require heavy coats. My point is that regardless of where you live, it’s important to start with the basics. No matter where you live, you should have these 10 essentials which will allow you a neutral pallet to add color.
1. Go-to Jeans: Everyone needs this, regardless of what you do or where you live. Everyone needs that one go-to pair of jeans that they can dress up or down. No holes, not too faded, and typically bootcut.
2. Black Pants: Whether its going to work or an evening out, you can use a simple black pair of pants as a basis to anything. Your top will determine where the look takes you, but they are a must.
3. White tank top: Something that can be worn alone in the summertime (with a fun necklace) or under a cardigan in the fall. Layering is essential in different climates, and a white tank will allow you to create a few looks.
4. Gold flats: This might not seem like a standard for most people, but my gold flats are a staple. I can wear them all summer long to work or for a day of shopping and they match just about everything. If you chose black or brown, you’d be much more limited.
5. Black pumps (rounded toe): As long as you don’t torture them, they will work for years to come. Pair them with aforementioned jeans or black pants, as well as skirts, dresses, whatever!
6. 3/4 Length Tops – The great thing about this length is that you can wear it year round. Loop a scarf around your neck and it’s totally appropriate in the winter or pair with shorts in the summer – either way, it’s a safer bet than short or long-sleeved.
7. Black/White Cardigan: Wear your favorite summer tank underneath to extend the life of your summer selections or button it up for a little sophistication. It will work over anything, even a dress for a romantic evening out (restaurants are chilly)!
8. Black Leggings: Even the people who don’t want to walk around in body hugging clothing should have a pair of leggings. They look great under a dress (make your look more casual or appropriate for the season), tunics, or with a hoodie around the house! They are the ultimate in comfort and you will wear them – trust me.
9. Black Blazer: I love that blazers are back in style, and they aren’t going anywhere for a while. They can be worn totally casually (with jeans) or to work for a create-your-own suit look. I love mine – especially paired with a simple white tank underneath.
10. Wool Coat: Black or camel colored will be great for you. Wool coats do not go out of style. Camel can be a better shade since it doesn’t show as much lint, but black is obviously a great choice as well.
***A couple other wildcard picks that I’d throw in there: black boots (ones you can tuck pants into but also wear under pants), a long silver necklace, and anything else that you need to have.
Start with really neutral colors and add color from there. You can always add a pop of color with a scarf, handbag, or jewelry! Happy Shopping!
shops love!
