Style staples

Every woman, no matter her age, should own a few basic essentials, which can be tweaked to fit her personality and style.

Here’s the list: Black dress, a structured blazer, great fitting jeans, an “all occasions” top, black pencil skirt, white oxford button down, black heels, a trench coat, a great leather bag, and a statement accessory.

The little black dress (LBD) serves as the canvas on which you paint your style.  It can transition from day to night, office to party, wedding to funeral.  Let’s face it, when you make this purchase, it’s not going to be cheap, but you will wear it for years to come, and it will pay for itself eventually.

Add in a little structured blazer. This can be used in the office over your LBD, or out on a date over a simple v-neck and jeans. A blazer has this amazing way of saying, “Hello, I’m put together!” and it’s so easy to throw on on top of anything.

Fitted Jeans. On the weekends when you’re out running your errands, please do us all a favor and skip the saggy sweats.  I always believe it takes just as much effort to pull on a pair of jeans as it does to pull on a pair of sweats.  Fitted jeans, however won’t show your panty line, and can actually make your behind look fabulous!

Now for the ‘all occasions’ top. Essentially, it is a top, whether it be a solid, patterned, or floral, that is your flattering go-to, and can transition (much like your LBD) between any occasion (get it?) with seamless effort.  The idea is that you can easily pair it with a pair of jeans, some black pants, or a cute little…

…Skirt. Everyone needs a pencil skirt! A well fitted skirt shows off curves in all the right places and instantly ups the va-va-voom in any outfit.

The white button-down shirt is an American classic and staple that has the ability to fit in with anything.

Black heels. You know you need them, and you know they’re going to hurt.  You may say, “But I already have a pair of black pumps that I’ve owned for years!” Yeah, well, if they have a square or pointy toe, and you probably bought them in the 90’s, it’s time for an upgrade. Try a high heel (I’m talking three inches) with a platform, that way there is less distance between the ball of your foot and your heel and the platform will absorb the shock of hitting the ground. Also, invest in a really good pair — the more money you put into them, the more comfy they will probably be.

The trench coat is a timeless classic that makes everyone look clean,polished and put together. Not to mention, the trench is perfect for the in-between seasons we experience here in Wisconsin. Put a little money into this one too.  I did, and it was the best investment I ever made!

And finally, the statement bag and jewelry piece. Again, these are places where women can find it hard to spend some money. I recommend purchasing a great leather bag in either black or brown. Leather gets better with age and will always be in style. Also, with a neutral color and texture, you will be able to wear it with any of the above staple pieces! When it comes to statement jewelry, here is finally a place where you can pay less.  Depending on your taste, buy a few trendy fashion pieces such as a colorful cocktail ring or an armful of bangles to add on to an outfit, or invest in a big and bold necklace that you absolutely love to put the finishing touch on any outfit.

Phew. Now you may have to visit your closet with a pen and paper and take inventory of what you need.  If you stick to this list however, you will be chic and stylish for years to come.

*Cover photo by KYZ via Flickr