Another List!

Style Bakery recently created a list called "10 Classic Pieces Every Woman Should Own" As usual, I read the list with some skepticism. Every woman? How about women like my friend Amy, a marine biologist who spends her days mucking around in swamps and testing water in a lab? How about my cousin Gina, a decorative artist who sands, paints, and builds furniture and smaller pieces for people's homes? Does she "need" a pair of pumps?

Still, such lists can be instructive so let's go over this one before you head to the stores.

1. Pencil Skirt: Designed for non-curvy women who like their legs. Wear with a t-shirt or pretty blouse to work or business events.

2. Blazer: Can pull together many outfits, and can give the illusion of a waist and is flattering on most women. Often needs tailoring to fit just right (get it to fit your shoulders and tailor elsewhere if needed). I feel confined in blazers and rarely wear them. Not that you asked!

3. Trench Coat: This looks sharp and can keep you from getting wet. If you are large busted, avoid double-breased ones. Don't rely on a trench to keep you warm.

4. Cardigan: This piece can keep you warm! Comes in all kinds of styles, materials, and colors. Natural fibers can pill and need a good combing after a few wears. Store your wool and cashmere ones with cedar and hand wash them.

5. Feminine Blouse: Can take the edge of a masculine outfit and looks great under a blazer or cardigan at work. Too many ruffles or large prints can look fussy. A dressier alternative to a knit top.

6. Little Black Dress: Only if you look good in black. Sheesh! How many times does the LBD appear on lists with no mention of how ghastly many women look in black? How about a little brown dress, a little teal dress, a navy dress. . . If you like wearing dresses, invest in a solid colored one that is flattering to your skin tone. It can be worn almost anywhere!

7. Dark Jeans: Wear these with a nice blouse and feel fairly dressed up. Dark jeans are more figure flattering than faded ones.

8. Statement Necklace: This means a bold piece of jewelry. If you don't like big pieces around your neck, skip this one. Opt for eye-catching earrings, a ring, or a bracelet instead. Remember that one statement piece of jewelry worn at a time looks best.

9. Classic Pumps: Wear these if you can walk comfortably in them. Of course, some foot experts will tell you never to wear heels, but they do dress up an outfit and are a must with a pencil skirt or fitted dress. I wear pumps only when I know I will not be standing for a long period of time. Darn that bunion!

10. 24-Hour Handbag: Not really sure what this means. The one in the photo looks big to me. Is this something I would bring on a plane? On a long car trip? When I leave my house in the morning and won't return until late at night? I am confused.