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:

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.

I get a countless number of catalogs sent to my house. Most of them, I never even open. With that said, I do love to sit down with a few choice catalogs and a glass of wine to see what's new in retail and fashion. Some times it's easier than trying to online shop. Most retailers put their best items on display to get your attention.

I worked in corporate retail for a company that put out approximately 36 catalogs/mailers a year. It is a very extensive process which I have a great deal of respect for. As a result, I think I appreciate catalogs more than I did before I knew how much work went into them.

One of my favorites is always Anthropologie. I love the photography, the layout and the flow. I draw great inspiration from the pictures and the outfit combinations. The latest September issue did not disappoint.

One other catalog that caught my attention this month was Lucky Brand. In the section for her, they highlight jewelry & accessories. In fact, there isn't very much women's clothing featured in this catalog but the few pieces that I do see, have me wanting more. I'm intrigued by the look and feel of the entire catalog even though there are less than a handful of pieces I would want to check out. But they have clearly done something right here. They have successfully used this catalog as a marketing tool to get my attention. The best part? They included a 25% off coupon! I have a feeling I'll be stopping by Lucky Brand pretty soon!

Both of these catalogs are incorporating the use of black & white photography. In concept, this seems like it might not be the best idea, since you can't show off your fall color palette in black and white. But it works very well for both of these catalogs. I think they are using black & white to create a mood and a flow which I for one, absolutely identify with.

So, if you're looking for a little extra inspiration for your Fall wardrobe, pick up a few of those catalogs that are sitting on your coffee table and see what catches your eye. You might find the standout piece, you've been looking for.

Basics and Fit

Inspiration from September Catalogs