J.Crew cardigan | ATM tee | Mother denim | Shoes, similar here | Givenchy bag | Sunglasses | Initial necklace | Poppy Finch necklace
6 items that make or break a good closet!
There are several basic wardrobe staples we should all have when it comes to making outfits. And, from time to time, they need to be updated or refreshed. Over the years, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard from a new client that she already owns a denim jacket, or that she has ten black pants. And then I think to myself … hmmm, “I wonder if the denim jacket is up-to-date?” or “I wonder if all those black pants fit properly?” We don’t need a lot of clothes, but the key outfit-making pieces really do need to work, fit well, and be up to date.
Recently, my friend Bobby Schuessler, Senior Editor of Who What Wear, said he was inspired by this recent blog post. He asked for my perspective (!) on which 6 items make or break a good closet, and wrote this article that was published in WWW last week. Today’s post is a recap of that article, with my picks included. Typically, I provide the key items and photos, and then Bobby adds the title and picks the shoppable items for WWW readers to purchase. This post is different because the shoppable items today are actually my picks! Brand new favorites, straight from me. I hope you like them!
#1 Perfect fitting jeans
Veronica Beard jacket | Dickey hoodie | Frame denim | Prada shoes | ATM tee | Givenchy bag | Sunglasses | Initial necklace
You really only need three jeans in your closet: black, faded blue, and gray wash. They must fit perfectly (not too loose and not too tight) and be the correct length. Brand favorites include Mother, Frame, Paige, Madewell and Rag & Bone.
#2 Perfect fitting tee
J.Crew cardigan | ATM tee | Sunglasses | Initial necklace | Poppy Finch necklace | Brinker & Eliza heart bracelet
Invest in white, black, and gray—these are all you really need. The one I’m wearing by ATM is a favorite. I also love this new one by Frame and Rag & Bone makes great ones too!
#3 Classic coat
J.Crew trench | ATM tee | Levi’s | Gucci bag | Prada shoes
My philosophy on jackets and coats? You can never have too many 🙂 Go for a classic, like this trench I’m wearing, or a well-priced favorite like this one. They will complete every single outfit you own.
#4 Neutral shoes
AllSaints leather jacket | Schutz shoes
The thing about neutral colored shoes is they really do go with everything. The key is to find a tone that’s close to your skin color so you can wear them with jeans, skirts, dresses … you name it! The Schutz sandals are favorites, and I highly recommend them. See below for more suggestions!
#5 Black separates
BlankNYC blazer | Black Vince blouse | Black Vince crop legging | Halogen cashmere over shoulders | Sandals, similar here
All black is always elevated! You don’t even need to spend a lot. Add a great shoe and a fun bag to feel put together and look sophisticated. This Vince silk blouse is a favorite, and I also love these Vince cropped leggings. They’re comfy and everyone loves them!
#6 Chic accessories
Madewell denim jacket | Gucci bag | Prada red shoes, similar | Roxanne Assoulin bracelets | Sunglasses
We often overlook accessories, but they’re truly the most important elements of your outfit. Any one of these will pull your outfit together: sunglasses add a little glamour, your favorite jewelry personalizes your look, and a great crossbody bag completes it all. It’s these finishing touches that take your wardrobe to the next level.
Thank you for reading! xx
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