Print out this essential list and take it with you next time you venture out for a little retail therapy.
- Jill Martin, BettyConfidential.com
Do you have a wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear? Fashion expert Jill Martin, who has a new book out called Fashion for Dummies, has come up with a list of essential items that every woman needs in her closet. The key is to opt for classic pieces that never go out of style. That way you can pair them with your It item of the moment and your wardrobe dilemmas will be a thing of the past!
Read: What to Wear to Work This Fall
1. The little black dress.
This should be a simple black dress that can work for many different occasions. For the office, wear with a scarf, for a night out, add a piece of statement jewelry. ($175, anntaylor.com)
2. Black blazer.
The key is finding one that is flattering for your body. If your waist is one of your best features, go for a more fitted look. A black blazer with jeans and a button-down is a very chic and timeless look. ($59.95, nyandcompany.com)
3. Speaking of white button-down shirts…
Invest in a new one every season. This one item can make you look crisp and clean. You can never go wrong when you pair it with jeans, dress pants or a skirt. ($69, talbots.com)
4. Well-cut trousers.
If you are only buying one pair of winter-weight trousers, pick one in black or navy. You can wear them paired with so many different options. Make sure you match the length of the pants with the height of your shoes. ($29, kohls.com)
5. A beige trench coat.
This coat goes with anything and completes any outfit. If you already have one in beige, you might want to think about investing in one in a bright color for fall. Outerwear is part of your outfit and should not be an afterthought. ($78.99, macys.com)
6. A big black bag.
Often called a "schlep" bag because it holds everything, whether you're chasing toddlers or contracts, your bag should fit your needs. The right shoes and bag can make an ordinary outfit look like so much more. ($89.99, overstock.com)
7. The perfect pair of jeans.
Whether they cost $50 or $500, you should have one pair that fits you perfectly. Great jeans can be worn with anything from a T-shirt to blazer. ($69.50, gap.com)
8 A great pair of pumps.
Your shoes need to be perfect. If you are only going to buy one pair this season, go with a black pair. ($68.72, endless.com)9. Statement jewelry.
Make your accessory the focal point of an outfit. You don't need to spend a million dollars on a big piece. The trick is to pick one item: necklace, bracelet or earrings, and build your outfit around it. ($10.80, forever21.com)
10. Diamond studs.
They're oh-so-classic and chic. And the good news is they don't have to be real; there are so many affordable copies out there. If you do buy faux, make sure to buy something on the smaller side. ($119.99, jcpenney.com)What are your closet staples?
Fashion expert and TV personality Jill Martin is the author (with Pierre A. Lehu) of Fashion for Dummies ($24.99, Wiley)
To read more from BettyConfidential | The Perfect Little Black Dress For You & Get Blake Lively's Look for Less
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