winter 2017

How to Prepare for the Holiday Season: Back to Basics

Thanksgiving is less than two weeks away. I'm hosting this year. Which makes it even more real to me. There's LOTS to do to get ready. With that said, I know there are many of us with full plates this season. It's go,go,go until the new year. So how do we make getting dressed for all our upcoming events just a little easier?

Having a few basics in your wardrobe can make getting dressed a lot easier. With versatile basics, you can pull together outfits for whatever your day brings. From office wear to night out or casual weekend, basics will have you covered. If you have these in your wardrobe you’ll never be caught without something to wear.

What makes a great basic? Versatility is key. A piece that is neutral and classic will make for easy pairing. Think of the colors that you wear most often in your wardrobe. Think of the color pairings you gravitate towards. Understanding which items you use most often will help you to come up with the best group of basics.

Most of us will have the variations of the same basics in our fall wardrobe. Fall basics to consider including this season are nude pointy toe pumps, black pants, a pencil skirt, neutral blouse, classic sweater, dark jeans, simple t-shirt, blazer, and ankle booties. This is not to imply that you have to have all these items in your closet. Rather, to give you inspiration for the types of items that make great basics. For example, the classic sweater should be in a style that is flattering to you. Choose variations of these items that will work best for you. Using the items listed above you can dress for a variety of occasions.

Weekend casual: jeans & classic sweater

Day at the office: pencil skirt and blouse

Dinner out: black pants, blouse and blazers

Brunch with the girls: jeans, t-shirt and blazer

Add a few accessories (think jewelry, scarves & bags) to any of the outfit pairings listed above and you’re well on your way to having a great wardrobe with real choices for real life. Feel free to add color and style and make your basics match your personality. Focus on what makes you feel good when you look in the mirror.

Your clothes should make you feel beautiful. This is especially true for your basics. They are your safety net. They need to be there for you when all else fails. Make sure you have items that flatter you. Don’t put them on because you have to. Put them on because they make you feel wonderful!

 

J. Crew: Drapey Wrap Top: simple and classic, this piece will pair with almost any bottom

J. Crew: Drapey Wrap Top: simple and classic, this piece will pair with almost any bottom

J.Crew Perfect Fit V-neck T-shirt: a simple tee can go a long way in your wardrobe as a layer or stand alone - personalize by finding the right neckline for you

J.Crew Perfect Fit V-neck T-shirt: a simple tee can go a long way in your wardrobe as a layer or stand alone - personalize by finding the right neckline for you

J. Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt: this style is perfect for work or dinner out, but find what style works best for your body

J. Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt: this style is perfect for work or dinner out, but find what style works best for your body

J. Crew Tippi Sweater: available in a variety of colors this sweater is a staple & the crewneck-line is universally flattering

J. Crew Tippi Sweater: available in a variety of colors this sweater is a staple & the crewneck-line is universally flattering

Ann Taylor Leather Moto Jacket: instead of a classic blazer, add a moto jacket to your wardrobe and utilize it in the same way

Ann Taylor Leather Moto Jacket: instead of a classic blazer, add a moto jacket to your wardrobe and utilize it in the same way

Nordstrom Sam Edelman 'Telsa' d'Orsay Pointy Toe Pump: a nude pointy toe pump is a must have item to finish off any look

Nordstrom Sam Edelman 'Telsa' d'Orsay Pointy Toe Pump: a nude pointy toe pump is a must have item to finish off any look

 

 

Last Minute Winter Finds

Retail is ready to swing into Spring. I saw bathing suits at Target today. Bathing Suits! Okay, I get it, it's vacation season. Everyone needs a warm getaway from the cold ... I can appreciate that. But what happens when you're in need of a couple extra warm weather items and all you can find are bathing suits? Well, don't despair. There are still a few items available for the winter weather outside your window. And most are even on sale! If you happen to be looking for versatile items to add to your winter wardrobe, I've add some inspiration below.

A few of my favorite sweaters on the market right now are available at Ann Taylor:

Wool Cashmere Lace Up Sweater

Wool Cashmere Lace Up Sweater

Scallop Trim Top

Scallop Trim Top

Aran Cowlneck Sweater

Aran Cowlneck Sweater

Sequin Zebra Jacquard Sweater

Sequin Zebra Jacquard Sweater

The following stylish items are available at Anthropologie:

Faroe Off the Shoulder Sweater

Faroe Off the Shoulder Sweater

Fringed Arnhem Sweater Skirt

Fringed Arnhem Sweater Skirt

Banana Republic also has a few classic style sweaters and polished winter coats:

Italian Cashmere Blend Boatneck Sweater

Italian Cashmere Blend Boatneck Sweater

Shine Crew Pullover

Shine Crew Pullover

Melton Wool Long Military Jacket

Melton Wool Long Military Jacket

Faux Shearling Trim Coat

Faux Shearling Trim Coat

Melton Wool Classic Peacoat

Melton Wool Classic Peacoat

Melton Wool Buttoned Top Coat

Melton Wool Buttoned Top Coat