Wardrobe Basics for Women

D

o you buy clothes just because you like a certain color or pattern and then find out that you’ve got nothing in your wardrobe that matches or pairs with that purchase? I confess I used to be one of those people…☺

Can you envision going to your closet and easily picking out some pieces to wear that you not only love, but that also fit? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be able to create an infinite number of outfits instead of wasting time trying on countless items only to find yourself wearing the same things over and over?

The key to clothing bliss is to organise and to determine which clothing essentials you need to develop your personal style and create a wardrobe that works (and doesn’t look dated).

There are many excuses why we hang on to clothes.

• You love the fabric but it just doesn’t feel right when you put it on. If you’re always wearing something else and you’re handy with a sewing machine you can either make some alterations or turn it into a quilt.
• It’s too tight now but will fit just perfectly when you lose the weight. Chances are if the item is more than a couple of years old that pipe dream won’t happen. And if it does, does that piece look like something your Grandma might wear?
• Your mother-in-law (best friend, boyfriend, etc.) gave you that item so you can’t get rid of it. Really?
• The color doesn’t work with anything in your closet. This is perhaps the easiest of the excuses to remedy. Donate it, sell it or arrange a clothing swap with friends.

To cull or not to cull? The goal is to be able to create a multitude of outfits with clothes that you love, and never again to say "I don't have anything to wear"!

The first thing to do is — go to your closet and pick out the clothes that you tend to wear most of the time. Carefully look at each piece and be objective. Why do you like wearing it? Is it in good condition or does it look worn and need to be replaced? Is it dated? When was the last time you wore it?

And how many pairs of black pants can you have? When I cleaned out my closet I discovered that I have at least six.

Then, remove everything else (yes, everything) out of your closet and pile the items on your bed. Divide them into three piles — to keep, to donate or sell, and to throw away or recycle. You will be amazed at the things you will find hidden beneath a sweater or jacket. Be ruthless. Unless you are performing in a revival of “Hair” those old bell-bottoms and tie-dyed T-shirt really need to go.

You will then need to try on every single item you wish to keep and critically access whether or not they are worthy of keeping. What clothes do you wear that make you most happy? Are you a Classic woman, or a Bohemian type? Do you dress like you've come from the Victorian era or is a pair of comfy jeans more your style? Remember, classic pieces will last for many years.

Even though trends come and go, there are some clothing essentials that are always in style and can last forever. This list will help fine-tune your wardrobe so that you're never stuck. Make sure all the pieces are in the same general color scheme. Black, white, grey, and navy go with virtually everything. It's also nice to have a few items that are accent colors. Start with two basic colors and add a couple of accent pieces in a pattern or colors that pair with those items.

Dresses:
1. 1 little black dress (can go both day and evening)
2. 1 party dress (fancy)
3. 1 short sleeve or sleeveless day dress (can be a print)
4. 1 long sleeve day dress (a wrap style is universally flattering)

Bottoms:
1. 1 dark wash jeans
2. 1 black dress pants
3. 1 white pants
4. 1 casual pants (can be a print or a solid)
5. 1 dark neutral skirt
6. 1 print skirt
7. 1 shorts
8. 1 leggings

Tops:
1. 1 dark long-sleeved blouse
2. 1 light long-sleeved blouse
3. 2 short sleeve or sleeveless tops
4. 2 striped or print tops (can be silky)
5. 1 dark neutral t-shirt (black)
6. 1 evening top (fancy, i.e. sequins)
7. 1 turtleneck

Layers:
1. 1 dark neutral cardigan
2. 2 light/medium neutral pullover sweaters
3. 1 dark neutral blazer

Outerwear:
1. 1 winter coat
2. 1 raincoat
3. 1 lightweight coat/jacket

Shoes:
1. 1 dark neutral pumps
2. 1 flats (could be a print)
3. 2 sandals (1 for walking, 1 fancy)
4. 1 sneakers (preferably white)
5. 1 dark ankle booties
6. 1 knee-high winter boot

Bags:
1. Pick a color that compliments your main wardrobe color, but doesn't match (if your main wardrobe is black and grey tones, choose a reddish bag).
2. 1 tote
3. 1 clutch
4. 1 crossbody bag

LBD (little black dress) The little black dress is a classic and essential piece in every woman’s wardrobe. It will always be in fashion and black goes with everything. Dress it up with a simple change of shoes and accessories for a night out or wear it paired down for work or other occasions — the dress is your canvas and it all depends on how you style it. Add jewelry or a scarf and you already have two different looks.

Dark wash jeans Great for every season, these jeans will never go out of style and are perfect for dressing up or down. Straight legged, skinny or boot cut jeans can easily be thrown on anytime with a basic t-shirt and you’re good to go. A crisp white shirt and some high heels can also look very chic. Don’t get stuck in a style rut — experiment with bold colors and fun accessories to jazz up your look.

White, striped, colored and print T- shirts T-shirts are something you can wear any day. They can be luxurious or sporty, depending what you pair them with. They also come at every price point and are at almost every retailer. If you find one that you just love, purchase a couple in other colors and different sizes (as an oversized tee with jeans, for example). Have one in black, white, striped and a color or print.

Skirts Prints are always nice to add some color or change a look, especially if you have a few solid T-shirts. Add a jacket and change the top to another color and voila! You've got another look.

Black pants This is a foundation piece, so don’t script on cost. Buy the best you can afford ‘cause it will last a long time. Team a pair of black pants with a black blazer and you have an instant suit that can also be mixed with different pieces (tops and bottoms) for a variety of looks — professional and casual.

Shoes and boots Pumps, flats, sandals, sneakers and boots, oh my! Choosing the right solemate will adjust how formal you look. Take a risk with some color here, especially if the rest of the outfit is monochrome.

Lightweight jacket Be bold (especially if your basic colors are black and grey). Choose a jacket that can be both casual and dressy, and you'll get better mileage with it.

Bags Black highlights other colors, so go for a bright tote! However, it's wise to also have one bag that is black — to go with other accent colors.

Have fun shopping for some new clothes, but remember to stick to the plan, or else you'll have to go through the same procedure in a few months!