Basics and Fit

You can buy the basics for you wardrobe just about anywhere. The key is finding the brand that has the right fit for you. Most brands offer multiple “fits” for different body types. That’s the only way for them to appeal to a larger audience. But even so, they are not all created equal. A curvy fit at the Gap will be different from a curvy hit at Ann Taylor, and this is true across the board.

Do not underestimate the importance of fit. Fit is everything. When you have a basic that fits like it was made just for you, you automatically look 10x more polished than you would in an item that doesn’t fit you perfectly. You can compare an expensive item that doesn’t fit your body type to a less expensive item that fits you perfectly and the one that fits will look more attractive hands down.

In order to find the fit that works best for you, start trying on clothes. If you try on multiple fits at one brand and find that none work for you, don’t get frustrated. It’s simply time to find a different brand. And I hate to tell you this but as you may have already realized, brands tend to change their fits from time to time. So you’ll fall in love with one, only to find that the brand has stopped making it and now offers something they market as improved, but that doesn’t fit you the way your old favorite did.

(Isn’t this the most frustrating thing? It happens with my beauty products all the time! I hate that they are constantly switching on me. Okay, enough complaining…)

If you are struggling with fit, make friends with a seamstress. You can have a variety of items tailor to fit you specifically. A good seamstress will know exactly how to tailor an item to you. Once you start having items tailored you will start to learn what items of clothing can or cannot be tailored to you. You will also quickly learn (if you haven’t already) which styles are most flattering on you. Pay close attention. A good seamstress can teach you a lot about clothes, styles and fit!

In my last post on basics, I suggested a few items including jeans, a blazer and t-shirts. Neutral colors work best for basics as they can be the most versatile. But simple prints and patterns can also work as basics. When shopping for these items, look for classic pieces. You want items that will work with any trend in multiple seasons.  You want these basics to lay the foundation for your wardrobe.

In case you're looking for a little inspiration, I have highlighted a few basics from two great brands. Madewell and Lucky Brand have a variety of basic style that are worth your consideration. These two brands have a reputation for a more timeless classic look which makes for great basics.

Here are few Madewell pieces that are perfect examples of great basics:

Sound Ribbed Crewneck Tee

Sound Ribbed Crewneck Tee

AM scoop tee

AM scoop tee

Anthem Split Neck Tee in Vartan Stripe

Anthem Split Neck Tee in Vartan Stripe

Long sleeve swingy tee dress

Long sleeve swingy tee dress

Bridgewalk V-Neck Dress

Bridgewalk V-Neck Dress

The Jean Jacket in Pinter Wash

The Jean Jacket in Pinter Wash

Milestone Pullover Sweater

Milestone Pullover Sweater

Ryder Cardigan Sweater

Ryder Cardigan Sweater

Below find a few highlights from the current Lucky Brand offering. To make it easy for you within the Featured Shops they have a Back to Basics curation that is simply on point.

Drop Needle Knit Top

Drop Needle Knit Top

Feminine Military Jacket

Feminine Military Jacket

Washed Popover Tunic

Washed Popover Tunic

Eyelet Peasant Top

Eyelet Peasant Top

Quilted Suede Moto Jacket

Quilted Suede Moto Jacket

School Boy Blazer

School Boy Blazer