12 BASICS YOU NEED IN YOUR CLOSET

 

12 BASICS YOU NEED IN YOUR CLOSET

JEANS // SKIRT // BLAZER // BLACK TROUSERS // WHITE BUTTON-DOWN // DRESS // FLORAL BLOUSE // CREWNECK SWEATER // CARDIGAN // TANK // TURTLENECK // WHITE TEE

 

Hello, ladies! I hope you have had a good week! First, let me say how sad I have been for all of the people and animals that lost their homes in California. Seeing the photos is devastating, and I can’t imagine what it must be like. Fire scares me to death! I am praying for everyone! My daughter lived in LA until September and is now in Ventura County. We really need to be grateful for what we have, including our health and the health of those we love. That’s the most important! Here is a list of resources if you are inclined to help.

I know this post sounds superficial when so much is happening, but it gave me something to think about instead of scrolling through the fires non-stop. I wanted to share the twelve basics you need in your closet because it’s January, and so many of us are considering starting fresh. If I had an empty closet and could choose twelve items, these would be what I would get. I think these are the basics of a great wardrobe. Of course, I am showing you examples here.

1. A great pair of JEANS. As I said in this post, we have become a casual society, and jeans are accepted in most places. A great-fitting pair of jeans is essential! If I had to choose one, it would be this pair with straight legs. Straight legs are the easiest to wear and can be worn with every shoe style. 

2. A SKIRT in a neutral color. Everyone should own a black, white, or tan skirt to pair with tee shirts or sweaters. I love skirts in the summer with tees and sandals and in the winter with a turtleneck and boots. Including skirts in your wardrobe gives you a garment that offers flexibility, comfort, and diversity.

3.  BLACK BLAZER–  I also believe that a neutral blazer is another essential! A black, navy, white, grey, or khaki blazer remains stylish regardless of changing trends. You can wear them year-round and dress up an outfit with a blazer. I love blazers with tee shirts and jeans, but also over dresses and skirts. I’ve even worn a black blazer over leggings. Wearing a solid blazer makes it easier to add a colorful top underneath. If I had to choose one color, it would be black. I also recommend getting a blazer that is a great fit, and I think Veronica Beard blazers generally do.

4. A great-fitting TROUSER. Trousers have become hugely popular in the last few years. I’ve seen them worn with heels and sneakers. I like fuller legs and slouchier pants, but if I had to choose one pair to wear with everything, it would be these black pants. These pants are from La Ligne and have a satin fabrication. They are a pull-on style with a wider leg. I would wear these with tees, blouses, sweaters, and any shoe style. These pants are also available in navy and ivory.

5. A WHITE BUTTON-DOWN. I know you all know this, but a white button-down is essential. They can be worn with anything (even a ballgown-type skirt, a la Carolina Herrera). They can be worn independently, under sweaters, blazers, jackets, and over swimsuits. They are classic and always will be!

6. BLACK DRESS—A black dress is a no-brainer. It is versatile and timeless, effortlessly transitioning from day to night. For daytime, a black dress with sandals and a cardigan works, and I would dress it up for the evening by adding jewelry and heels ( I would add a colorful shoe with this dress). I chose this dress because it is like a blank canvas. It can go day or night, look good with any jacket style, or even wear a white shirt underneath it. This dress will take you a long way!  

7. A BEAUTIFUL BLOUSE in silk, satin, or another fabric (besides cotton) is another piece we should all have. I love a dressy blouse paired with jeans and heels for a date or girl’s night out. That same blouse paired with a skirt or trousers is perfect for church or dinner. Choose a beautiful blouse in your favorite color or pattern to give your bottoms a fun look!

8. CREW OR V-NECK SWEATER—A sweater is an essential for your wardrobe. It can be worn alone or layered under blazers and jackets. I also love a sweater draped around your shoulders over a white shirt or tee. You can choose from cotton, merino, or cashmere.

9. A SIMPLE CARDIGAN—A cardigan is as vital as a crewneck sweater. It is an excellent piece for every day of the year and can be worn over a tank or tee. Cardigans are classic and timeless and easily incorporated into any trend. I even like to wear a cardigan as a top.

10. A SIMPLE TANK IN BLACK OR WHITE—If you don’t already own one, a black or white tank is one of the most essential pieces to add. Tanks can be worn under everything. I wear mine under blazers and jackets, but mostly under sweaters so they don’t itch. 

11. TURTLENECK– The older I’ve gotten, the more critical turtlenecks have become (they hide a multitude of sins!) A turtleneck looks incredibly chic (especially in black or navy). Turtlenecks look great with jeans for a casual look, layered under a blazer or coat, and combined with skirts or trousers. I love to wear a black turtleneck with jeans and a more oversized hoop earring.

12. WHITE TEE—A white tee is a no-brainer! Everyone needs one or two. I don’t even need to explain why. The only advice I would give when purchasing a white tee is to consider getting one that is a bit tighter around the arms, like this one, if you are wearing one under a sweater; otherwise, any white tee can be used as a blank canvas. 

Now, do I think this is all you need? Of course not, but these are what I would consider essentials. I would also include a denim jacket and trenchcoat. As for shoes, I would include a boot, a chic sneaker, a flat, and a pump.

When considering your wardrobe, I would ask these questions. What is your style? Do you like the classics, or do you prefer the latest trends? How does your lifestyle fit in? Because of what I do, I tend to buy some trendy pieces, but I prefer classic styles. I would consider my style classic with a twist. What is your style?

We’ve had a little snow here, enough to keep me inside for the last two days. I have been cleaning out my drawers and removing what I am not wearing. I recommend Linda’s Stuff if you need a place to send unwanted pieces. Box your unwanted items, then call to schedule a pick-up. It’s super easy!

Have a great weekend! Stay safe and Be well!

Lots of prayers for California!