Must-have clothing lists are something I come across often, but I don't always agree with their contents. However, the following list from Apartment Therapy seems quite reasonable. My comments are in italics.
1. A pencil skirt.
Pencil skirts are like the subway tile of clothes: they never really go out of style. They're elegant, feminine, a little bit badass. Wear one to an interview (with a sensible top). Wear one to a wedding (with a flirty top). Find one you like, get it tailored to fit you just right, and you'll find yourself reaching for it again and again. A good fit is critical: The skirt should skim gracefully over your figure and hit at or just above your knee.
2. Black pumps.
Everyone should own at least one pair of really beautiful black pumps. Buy a classic shape and you'll keep them forever. Calvin Klein, Cole Haan, 9 West, and Michael Kors tend to have good black pumps year after year.
3. Jeans that make your butt look awesome.
Look for a dark rinse, so you can dress them up or down. If you find a pair that fits and you can afford it, purchase two pairs.
4. A big slouchy-luxe bag you can carry every day.
Your purse is pretty much the only thing in your wardrobe that you 'wear' every single day, so it's worth splurging on a little. I look for a bag that's high-quality but doesn't scream 'fancy' (for versatility) and one that has a little slouch to it (so I can stuff a few extra things in my purse without it looking like it's going to explode). Hmm. I find a big bag looks out of proportion on petite women and they can be really heavy. However, I'm all for splurging on a high-quality bag in a color and style you love since it will be with you every day.
5. Sunglasses.
Sunglasses are the only accessory you wear on your face, and they are kind of important. They're one of the first things other people will see, and a nice pair of sunglasses will instantly elevate any outfit. Look for a pair that's not too trendy and that complements your face shape. And don't leave them on the seat of your car and then sit on them, like I do. Eh. Some people cannot live without sunglasses (me!), and others rarely wear them. So this item doesn't seem like a must-have for all.
6. A white button-up shirt.
The ultimate wardrobe staple. Goes with basically everything. Another thing that's worth getting tailored, because you will keep it forever. What if you don't look wonderful in white? Then get off-white? Not a button-up shirt kind of woman? Then how about a white or cream silky blouse with or without buttons? Joie makes gorgeous (and pricey) ones, and Ive seen reasonably priced blouses at H & M and Forever 21.
7. A white tank top.
White tank top? I hear you saying, skeptically. Trust me: if you can find the right white tank top, you will wear it all the time. The trick is to get one in an upscale fabric, like silk, so the shape says casual but the execution looks like a million bucks. You can wear said tank top to get beers with your friends at the ice house (it's a tank top!) or to that fancy new restaurant everyone's been wanting to try (it's made of silk!). Also looks great under a blazer. I love a great white tank top and have found them at Old Navy and Michael Stars. Ones by Crown Jewel are quite perfect (and are sold at Indian Summers in Summerland).
8. The right black pants.
Perfect for any occasion where you don't want to wear a skirt, but jeans just won't quite do. Or navy, or dark brown. Look for non-pleated ones that have no pockets or pockets with slits that lay flat in front. A wide leg is flattering on most but make sure it is not too wide if you are petite.
9. A little black dress.
But of course. Or navy or cream or even red.
10. A statement-y necklace that goes with everything.
I know a necklace might seem like a not-so-basic thing, but hear me out: jewelry makes any ensemble look more finished. It says: "I do not just get dressed. I wear Outfits." If you can find a necklace that you love to wear, and that goes with everything, that one piece can give your whole wardrobe about 15% more oomph. Worth it. Yes!
What are the wardrobe staples you can't live without?
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