The Ultimate Guide To Wardrobe Essentials
6.15.20
While the desire to impulse purchase another pair of black leggings (that’s only going to take up more space in your overflowing drawer of black leggings) may seem tempting, put your credit card down. I know that for myself, I have a tendency to be an impulse buyer, and I will literally fill my Zara cart with so many things that maybe take me through one season. But over time I came to realize this method of shopping wasn’t sustainable (literally and figuratively.) So on the quest to look fashionable and but also make smart shopping choices, I enlisted my most stylist friend and fashion stylist Lotte Elisa Collins, to help me create a guide of key essentials you need in your closet and how to style them.
1. Solid Set of Denim
Whenever I don’t know what to wear I always reach for a pair of jeans. But deciding on the right pair can be tough as there are so many styles to pick from. Lotte has helped me find fits of denim that I really like and that work with my body. I found that I am a huge lover of a high waisted, baggier style jean as opposed to something more structured. Lotte recommends investing in a core collection of denim, as she believes dressing starts from them bottom and you then work your way up. She feels a pair of white, blue and a dark wash is the perfect way kick start your wardrobe.
2. Bodysuit
My theory is, why just wear a tank top when it can be underwear too? But seriously, a quality body suit is really a great investment piece. It adds an element of chicness and neatness to any outfit as you don’t have to tuck any extra fabric in. It really is a no fuss look which lets you put a great outfit together really quickly.
3. White Tee Shirt
This essential is something we all definitely have in our closet: A plain white tee. You can’t go wrong with a good quality, basic white tee that you can literally wear all year round. Lotte’s favorite tip to chic up a tee is to wear it with a visible bra under your white tee! “I have a big, big affinity for wearing a visible bra underneath,” she says. “It’s a very French style, [called the veil of seduction] or just [wearing] a classic white tee with a tee shirt bra is always chic”. Some of Lotte’s favorites tee’s from Ninety Percent, a brand that’s both stylist and charitable, as 90% of the proceeds from each purchase go to different charities all over the world.
4. Classic Button Down
This is honestly the one item in my closet I always keep coming back to without fail, and lucky for me Lotte agrees! For me a button down is just an absolute closet must have. I own so many in all different colors, shapes and styles so whatever mood I am in I have one to match it to. I just think it’s a casual and cool look and goes great with anything.
5. A Good Blazer
Look instantly professional and put-together with this timeless closet essential: The perfect blazer. I find that a blazer automatically elevates an outfit. And while I have always loved a good structured blazer, Lotte has introduced me to more oversized styles lately which I have been loving. “People are being more playful with their understanding of blazers and sport coats,” Lotte says. “Women are trying them on over slip dresses and shorts and tee shirts. They are really exploring how to wear blazers in a way that isn’t just the working girl styling.” Throw a blazer on with jeans or pair it with a skinny black jogger pant-it will instantly add a polished element to your look.
6. An Easy Jumpsuit
I just can’t help it, I am a true jumpsuit girl. It is honestly a staple in my closet and I wear jumpsuits all the time. I find it automatically makes you look cool all while being effortless. Jumpsuits are playful and fun and I just feel comfortable and myself when I'm wearing one.
7. Colored Accessories
Lotte has taught me that you can’t have good basics without having the right accessories attached to them. Things like bags, belts, shoes and scarves are just the right trimmings you will need. Lotte suggests veering away from neutral tones and choosing something with a little more color to spice up your outfit. “Having colored accessories is a great way to add a pop of color and piece of interest into what is otherwise a really basic monotone outfit,” Collins says.
8. Classic Pair of White Sneakers
A clean, classic, crisp white sneaker is a must! This classic is my go-to shoe of choice and again Lotte agrees! “There is always something very classic and very chic about a clean, crisp, white sneaker,” Lotte says. These can be worn with everything from a sundress and sunnies to skinny jeans and a tee. It’s easy and effortless all while keeping comfort in mind.
9. Go-To Black Heel
I have to admit I have never been the girl prancing around all day in a black pump. It’s just so not me. But still, having a go to black heel in your closet is non-negotiable. For me, I tend to gravitate more towards something like an ankle boot or even a strappy sandal to pair with dresses. The great thing is that a classic black heel comes in so many forms, so find the version of it that feels most authentic to you!
My stylist Lotte and I are showing you our version of closet essentials!
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