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As a college student who’s kind of strapped for cash and loves shopping way way too much, I’m more convinced than anyone else of the need for 10 go-to wardrobe essentials.
What is a wardrobe essential? Think of these as ten pieces that you can go to when you’re not sure of how to pull together an outfit. These are ten pieces that will look chic any year, (almost) any season, and at any occasion. These are pieces that last throughout the decades, that you can wear for years, and can be washed and cleaned without falling apart. These are the classics–wear them with whether harem pants or acid-wash jeans are in style.
An important note about buying these wardrobe essentials: splurge on these! If nothing else, these staples are essentials because they’re well made, well tailored, and flatteringly cut. They should be soft, comfortable, and look great on you! Try them on with different pieces in your wardrobe, and prance around in the mirror to make sure you’re buying the right one!
I’m going to AMEND the 70/30 rule when it comes to shopping on a budget. Traditionally, people say that 70% of your closet should be classic pieces, and 30% should be trendy pieces. I say, 70% of your BUDGET should be spent on classic pieces,mac makeup, and 30% on trendy pieces.
Here’s the first part in my series of how to buy and wear the wardrobe essentials!
First: The Trench
I am obsessed with coats. This was the inevitable result of growing up in Chicago and loving Jackie O. The trench coat keeps coming back in style because it is flattering on all types of bodies, it’s versatile, and it looks good with almost any outfit. At the right length, the right trench can even make a petite person look like they’ve got legs for miles. With the right belt, the trench can give you a super attractive waist. With the right collar, the trench can frame your beautiful face and ringlets just so! The right trench makes you look carefree and gives you that chic-I’m-not-even-trying-but-I-still-look-gorgeous look that French women master so well and is the envy of most other women around the world!
Who to buy it from: Burberry (this is obvious–I am swearing off buying coats and saving up for a $2000 Burberry. It’s worth it, I swear), JCrew, Banana Republic, Aquascutum, Ralph Lauren, DKNY, MIchael Kors, London Fog.
Don’t let this list detract you though. Found a classic trench that looks amazing on you at Old Navy? Get it! Just know that it won’t last as long as a Burberry.
How to wear it: Open with the belt tied in the back reveals the gorgeous dress you have on underneath and is perfect for spring weather. Add a long necklace or scarf. Tie it in the front for windy weather or to accentuate your waist. Wear it with a short dress and heels to make your legs look miles long.
Second: The Basic Tank
This is a no brainer. The perfect tank is not only flattering on you, it’s also soft as hell. It is SERIOUSLY SURPRISING how much difference different brands of tanks matters. My Old Navy tank from last summer? Stretches out way too easily after about 10 minutes of wear, is faded from a few washings, and adds about 10 pounds to my frame. A better quality tank will not only flatter just the right parts of your body, it’ll also be the perfect layering piece for whatever vest, cardigan, or belt is in style this season. It can be tucked into a waist-high skirt or jeans, or it can flow freely over that new LinQ boho skirt you just got. Just make sure you can wear a bra safely underneath without the straps peaking out,mac makeup wholesale, and don’t get the spaghetti straps, racerbacks, or v-necks as your basic tank.
Who to buy it from: James Perse (he makes the BEST basics!), LinQ, JCrew, Twenty8Twelve, Splendid, DKNY, Calvin Klein, American Apparel.
(Stay away from: fast fashion places that sell basics (they are unflattering and won’t last long!) like Forever 21 or Wet Seal)
How to wear it: Where do I begin? The tank can be worn with almost anything and everything. It’s the ultimate foundation. It’ll work with most of the trend pieces of the season, even the ridiculous looking ones (waistcoats, fur vests??). Wear this basic to highlight a really special scarf, belt, necklace, or cardigan. Or just throw it on with a pair of great skinnies for a carefree look!
Third: The All Purpose Leather Belt
I’ve been looking for this piece for the longest time, and I think I may have just found it. I’ve always thought belts are exorbitantly overpriced, but the versatility of this piece justifies its price. When buying this, I look for a great color, genuine leather (obviously), the ability to wear it both at the hips and the waist, and durability. They are an essential with so many outfits, and do wonders with accentuating your figure.
Who to buy it from: Vintage,wholesale mac makeup, consignment stores are surprising great places to find these, but I got mine at American Eagle, either this one (http://www.ae.com/web/browse/product.jsp?catId=cat1070004&productId=0423_3700), or this one (http://www.ae.com/web/browse/product.jsp?catId=cat1070004&productId=0423_3673) are great examples of classic belts. The braided/weaved quality allows you to change the length at will without having to punch extra holes. Other great belt-makers include JCrew, Michael Kors, Martin + Osa, Ralph Lauren, Linea Pelle, Elie Tahari.
How to wear it: These are great with lighter colored jeans, like those from Lucky or Paige. Throw this on with your boyfriend’s shirt and make a sexy short shirt dress. Or, wear it over a long cardigan in the winter. These can also be worn with your favorite LBD, tunic, or long T-shirt (like the one on sale from Aude as I’m writing this!)