WHAT IS A CLOSET CLASSIC?

Photo: Stella McCartney

Clothes talk, even when we don’t. 

The secret to looking chic for every occasion is creating a capsule wardrobe that’s compiled of essential investment pieces. These pieces are the foundation with which to build an abundance of stylish outfits. They truly are investment pieces, to launch every other clothing item that you own (cheap or expensive), into your personal style statement. I encourage all my clients to create a core wardrobe.

A core wardrobe is even more important when transitioning from one season to another. I advise my clients to invest less in trendy items and more in classic core pieces that love to be modernized with the slightest tweak, such as a cozy sweater in one of Fall 2021’s saturated colors in deep magenta or mustard yellow.

10 Classic Wardrobe Essentials

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1. Little Black Dress

The (LBD) is the all-time classic essential, think Audrey Hepburn in "Breakfast at Tiffany’s". The simpler, the better.  This dress will be the most versatile item in your wardrobe. Wear it alone with flats, or dress it up with pearls and heels. Add a colorful silk wrap for a special evening out; adorn it with a stunning brocade high collared, knee length coat to an elegant evening wedding; or wear a crisp white shirt tied at the waist right over the dress.

2. Classic Trench Coat

On the list of essential wardrobe classics, there isn't a single item that doesn't work perfectly with a classic trench. A well-cut trench exudes style, and can be paired with your little black dress, over a pair of slim black tailored cigarette pants, or thrown together with a pair of comfortable jeans for casual weekend relaxation. There are endless combinations.

3. Navy or Black Blazer

Wear the blazer with heels or loafers, depending on the occasion and get the look you wish to achieve. Add a scarf, pearls or layered gold necklaces to change up your look. And as you add inexpensive single season items, choose some that will add a pop of color to the navy or black base. A blazer may well be the best classic piece you ever purchase.

4. Crisp White Shirt

The trouser pants, black cigarette pants, jeans, and even the black dress will set the scene for the white shirt, whether you choose a casual or formal look, depending on what accessories you wear. Consider adding a white blouse to a full-length black silk evening skirt to wear to the ballet or theatre. A la Carolina Herrera…

5. Cashmere Sweater

A cashmere sweater is so versatile and easy to layer or wear on its own. Plus, they feel so sumptuous and are an investment you will wear on repeat year-round.

6. Navy or Black Trouser Pants

I love classic trousers, preferably high-waisted, with a wide leg, and with the hem almost touching the ground, to elongate and slim the leg. Add a white t-shirt, black patent pumps, a black patent clutch, a pearl necklace, diamond stud earrings, red lipstick, and you could go almost anywhere and find yourself on the best-dressed list.

7. Black Cigarette Pants

Black cigarette pants are understated elegance with immense style. The perfect cut is high-waisted, with a narrow leg to just above the ankle. Throw on a stunning black patent pump, and any style top~ from a black cashmere turtleneck, to a luxurious white silk blouse, or a cashmere sweater. Finish the look with an elegant cognac leather clutch. Or wear your crisp white shirt, untucked, with a black loafer, for a more relaxed but chic look.

8. White T-Shirt

What else could be said about a great white t-shirt? It goes with everything, can be dressed up and down, and can be worn as a layering piece. I buy from several different brands (Gap, Madewell,J. Crew) and none of them are very pricey. That way, when they start looking less than bright and white, I don’t feel bad replacing them.

9. Loafers

An eternal classic, the penny loafers appeal lies in its versatility. The loafer has a history that stretches back almost a century – not many pieces can boast the same style mileage as the penny loafer. 

10. Jeans

Jeans can be the trickiest item to find in the right size, cut and color and after what seems like a lifetime, skinny jeans have officially lost their grip on your closet. Consider high-rise, boot-cut and straight-leg styles your new denim default for your capsule wardrobe. Minimal effort, maximum impact? It’s all down to good jeans.

When you’re looking to add a new seasonal trend, don’t think investment piece- you don't have to buy quality or pay a high price. These are the trends that will create an element of surprise to your classics and update each daily look.

Enjoy this beautiful time of year, and as always, if you have any questions or would like to know more about my service ,please send me a message here.