Before you can build the kind of stylish wardrobe that you want, you need to find the pieces that will serve as your foundation. These should be both versatile and good quality items. Your “basics” will vary slightly depending on your style.
Think of these basics as a capsule wardrobe. You can mix and match the pieces to create outfits but you can also build on them to create your personal style. For starters I would say that most of us would include a good pair of jeans on our list of basics. Jeans are great because they can be dressed up or down and they are machine washable (easy to care for). Other versatile pieces that make great basics include a navy blazer, a flattering little black dress, a pencil skirt, a pair of black dress pants, a perfect white t-shirt, a blouse in a color that flatters your skin tone, a fleece or down vest and a cardigan sweater in a neutral tone. These are just suggestions. If your basics fall outside this list, that’s ok. You want a strong foundation for your personal style.
When compiling your basics you want to look for items that can be versatile in your wardrobe and tend towards classic rather than trendy. The versatile nature of your basics allows you to take them from one season to the next and apply trends as you like. You want these items to be made of good quality fabric that will last. These pieces are worth investing in. I’d say spend more on your basics and less on your trends.
When you find trends that you want to participate in, purchase pieces that can be combined with the basics you have in your closet. For example, the bell sleeve or off the shoulder trends can be combined with jeans, dress pants or a pencil skirt. Your basics would be best in solid colors as that increases their versatility.
Basics can also include your shoes, bags and jewelry. For basic accessories, you might want a comfortable but stylish pair of flats, a pair of pumps in a neutral tone to maximize versatility, a carryall bag for every day, a clutch or small bag for date night or special occasions and a statement piece of jewelry. Find the shoes and bag that match your personality and will be most versatile in your lifestyle.
If you’re struggling with identifying the basics in your wardrobe, look at the pieces that you wear most often. Most of us have a closet full of clothes but a particular handful of those items get worn the most. Which items are those for you and how do you maximize them in your wardrobe? Once you are able to compile your set of basics, you should feel like you are on your way to a great wardrobe.