One thing that really helped me create the closet that I currently have is understanding what are the essential items every woman needs in her closet. These pieces are timeless, figure flattering, and are modern classics.
Remember that when you are buying the essential items, they should cost a little more since you want them to last a long time. I invest in my essential items and add in the trendy pieces that cost less to freshen up my closet year after year.
I have read lots of fashion books and watched way too much Tim Gunn Guide to Style, BBC America What not to wear and the TLC What not to wear shows which helped me create this essential wardrobe checklist.
TheDiva Essential Wardrobe Checklist:
Tops:
- Neutral cardigan
- Crisp white collared shirt
- Structured jacket
- Dressy tank top
- Dressy long sleeve top
- Camisole
- V- neck sweater (remember to try lots of necklines. cowl, square, crew, scoop etc.)
- Simple cotton t-shirt
- Zippered hoodie
Pants:
- Black trouser
- Dark wash jeans (pick the style that flatters you the most)
- Medium wash jeans
- Black leggings
- Capri pant
Skirts & Dresses:
- Little black dress (LBB)
- Day dress
- Wrap dress (A girl's best friend!)
- Pencil skirt
- Maxi skirt
- A-line skirt
Outerwear:
- Denim jacket
- Wool pea coat (try a long or short pea coat & try a fun color in winter!)
- Trench coat
Footwear (this will be hard to narrow it down & play with color. Make sure you have black, nude, brown and grey to start)
- Ankle boot
- Knee high boot
- Pointed toe pump (It makes your legs look longer & they don't hurt!)
- Ballet flat
- Espadrilles
- Sandals
- Rain or snow boot
- Sneaker
Undergarments:
- A well fitted bra is one of the most important things you can wear (it keeps the girls up so you can see your waist line)
- Thong or panties that don't give you lines
- Tights in winter
Jewelry:
- Pearl necklace & earrings
- Cocktail ring
- Watch
- Vintage piece with family history if possible
- Statement necklace
- Statement bracelet
- Statement earrings
- Diamond stud earrings (they don't have to be real)
Accessories:
- Skinny belt
- Wide belt
- Simple day purse
- Scarf
- Evening clutch
- Sunglasses
- Umbrella
Building a closet of the essentials will take time but it is a great way to have the building block for looking great everyday and making it simple.
The most important thing is knowing who you are and your style! Find what colors, patterns and styles of clothes you are drawn to take the time to understand your personal style. Understand your body type and what cuts of clothing flatters your figure the best.
We are all different and we need to embrace what makes us all special!
