Let’s get back to the basics – the fashion basics, that is.
I was going to title this post “The Work Basics Every Woman Should Own,” but I think these pieces should be in every woman’s closet – regardless if she works 8-5 in an office. Classic fashion is timeless – which is also why I believe that if you’re going to splurge on clothes, it should be these. It’s worth the money for something you’ll be able to wear for the next 10+ years. I’ve already had the pencil skirt for eight, and I still wear it at least once a week.
An LBD
Black shift, Talbots
Belt, J. Crew
Come on, you know what this is. It’s almost become a fashion cliche. Every woman needs a black dress that makes her feel fabulous and fits her perfectly. It’s not enough that it was 75% off or came with a rockin’ waist-cinching belt. It has to fit your body like it was custom-made for you. That’s the secret to an LBD, or really to all fashion – it’s more important how the dress makes you feel. And you deserve to feel fabulous.
A crisp white blouse
Three-quarter sleeve white blouse, Talbots
Points if it’s non-iron. Seriously, do yourself a favor and go for the blouse that won’t wrinkle. It’s worth it. Ironing is so 1950s. I go through wrinkle-release spray like it’s Poptarts. If you’re all boobs like me, pick one with extra seams – it will nip in your waist even more. Also go for one with a little stretch. And finally, don’t be lazy like I am and wash this with the colored pile of dirty laundry. Take the time to reach up and get the bleach, even though it’s heavy and stored high up, and do a special load just for this blouse. Because you’ll be super pissed if you pull it out of the washer and it’s pink. Not that this has ever happened to me.
A black pencil skirt
Back-flare pencil skirt, Express
Tank, LOFT
I’ve talked about this one before. A black pencil skirt is great because you can wear it all season long. The midi skirt (length is halfway between your feet and knees) is back in a big way this season. That one’s acceptable too – but I think much harder to pull off. If you can’t wear pencil skirts (and some body shapes just don’t work with them) try A-lines with wide waistbands. Start with black. Then add different colors, patterns and textures. Pencil skirts come in a million varieties (I even have a “Friday” denim one), so go skirt-wild.
Side note: I started a Facebook page for my blog – I’d love it if you’d “like” me!
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Love the LBD! Great post, I was thinking of investing in a black pencil skirt
xx
Thanks so much – and you absolutely should! I wear mine year-round – boots and tights in the winter, sandals in the summer. Love it.
These pieces are all very useful in any wardrobe. The only thing I’m missing is a white shirt – I find it hard to get a really nice fit unless it’s really high end. Any brands you know of who make quality ones at a good price? (Love your poses, btw!)
HA! I figured I felt so awkward, I might as well be silly. My favorites are Talbots (non-iron), but Express also has good ones. Unfortunately I don’t fit into their blouses anymore! I’ve also heard Calvin Klein has great blouses. My experiences with Talbots and Express were their blouses came out of the dryer wrinkle-free, whereas some J. Crew Outlet blouses didn’t. And I hate ironing, so I don’t get blouses there anymore! I hope that helps.
You are so right about these! I have countles LBDs, but for me what is so important are the pencil black skirts. I have one from Lanvin that is just to-die for (and the best thing about them? they dont go out of fashion!).
Thank you so much for your lovely comment as well, it really did mean a lot!
PvdH
http://www.ThePvdHJournal.com
Ooh Lanvin. That’s a magic word.
And I love your blog!
This is fun to read! thanks for sharing it
You’re welcome, Mom.
I am so with you on the 3/4 length sleeve blouse! It just feels so much more comfortable and so much less stuffy than the full sleeve, and you can show off bracelets, watches, etc. PLUS, I have short arms (it’s a curse!), so I love sleeves I dont’ have to shorten! Great post!
Thank you! 3/4 is the best – more versatile too. (Nothing worse than long sleeves in the summer!)
Absolutely agree with you! Great basics will do a long way… one should consider them as investment
Fashion investments are the best! Once I find ones that are good quality, I try and wait until they go on sale. Sometimes I’m impatient though.
You’ve got all the bases covered with this post. I almost cried when my first black pencil skirt met an untimely demise after a rather rowdy girls night out.. but I digress… wonderful post and I’m headed to FB right now to formally “like” you.
Oh thank you very much! Sounds like it was a really fun girls night!
How about an article on Boots. I have fat calves and finding a cute pair of boots that fits my legs are rough — let along trying to wear them over jeans! lol
Ooh that’s a great idea! I know you’re not alone in that. I’m making a note for a future post on that one!
great tip on the LBD!! i have one that i’ve worn for years and years and it always does its job!
cute & little
They’re amazing, aren’t they? Instant outfit in one piece of clothing.
The LBD look so good on you! I am an anti-wearing all black person too but gotta have the LBD! Ps. those pink pants of mine…ASOS… 16 bucks! how much more do you love them now
Um, even MORE! So unfair! Where do they sell ASOS?? I obv need to find them immediately.
Definitely agree with your wardrobe staples!
Thanks Bri!