Your Basics
We all know that we should have “basics” in our wardrobe, but what exactly does that mean? In a nutshell, it means pieces that are interchangeable with each other, new trends, and your accessories. It means that no matter what the occasion, you will have something to wear, and will look put together.
So based on many years of trial and error, coupled with finding my own style, here is Apparel Therapy’s Basics Breakdown:
Tailored Suit – a tailored suit can take you from work to a dinner meeting. If your place of work is more casual, then split up the pieces to wear as separates. If suits are not required on an everyday basis, one good one in a neutral color (black, grey) should suffice. Make sure you can buy the jacket and pants separately, just in case you are two different sizes above and below.
Trouser Pants – a flattering pair (or two, or three) of trousers can take you along way. They are versatile and can be dressed up or down as needed. Pair with your button down shirt and heels for a work-look, or with a t-shirt and metallic flats for a more casual look. Pay close attention to the length, buying for whatever shoes you will wear with them the most often. Don’t cheap-out on these either. A high-quality fabric and cut can make you look slim and trim, while cheap, unlined polyester will likely not look so flattering. Pick ones with a wide waistband, which helps with tummy issues and can accommodate a variety of belts.
Crisp Button Down Shirt – a good button down shirt can make your look instantly put together. Wear it alone, under a jacket or sweater, or open with a bright t-shirt underneath – the possibilities are endless. For the large-chested woman, there is always the “gap” problem and the constant tugging. Here’s a big gem: if you are constantly tugging at your clothes, they don’t fit properly! You have a couple options here. A tailor can insert an unobtrusive snap between the two problem buttons. You can buy a Rebecca + Drew shirt that is made by bra size (up to 38D). You can always were it slightly unbuttoned with a pretty camisole underneath.
Statement Jacket – now this is a piece you can have fun with. Most stylists would tell you that this needs to be a classic trench-style coat. Ok, I have no issue with that. But here’s the thing: with so many other basics needing to be a neutral tone to really go with everything, this is the piece that can be your signature style. If you are going for the trench, buy it in a bold color that compliments your eyes and/or skin tone. Cropped jackets are also very flattering and reminiscent of feminine glamour. Just have fun with it, but make sure it compliments your body type and fits well.
Layering T-shirts – the one big rule for these is they should be very thin and light-weight. That way if you are layering two together, or one under your button down shirt, they will not add bulk. Buy longer lengths for more wearing options and buy lots of different colors and sleeve lengths. The neck-opening is up to you and what is most flattering for your body-type. There is nothing wrong with having a couple in the same color (usually black and white) as you will probably wear these the most. This is also a great way to experiment with what colors are flattering for you. Stores like Target and Old Navy are great places to find these pieces, and are so cheap you can afford to stock up.
Dark Wash Denim Jeans – these are the work-horse of your wardrobe. The ultimate in versatility, dark denim jeans can literally be worn for any occasion and the right pair can make you look 10 lbs thinner (who doesn’t want that?). The darker the wash, the more dressy the jeans can be. Also, be aware that the eye will gravitate towards any fading or whiskering, so stay away from those on any problem areas. Also, the back pockets can have a lot to do with how your rump is received (to the eye people…come on now), so experiment with those as well. In general, a bootcut is pretty universally flattering on most people, so start there. I personally have found Bloomingdale’s to have the best jeans selection. If paying $100-$200 for jeans gives you a mild heart attack, think of it this way: would you rather pay $150 for jeans that make you look and feel fabulous, and will stand up to your busy life, or would you rather pay $60 for jeans that are ho-hum, don’t fit quite right, and won’t last until next year? Now I’m certainly not saying that all expensive jeans are perfect, and that I haven’t found less expensive jeans that are great either. I’m simply saying that in my experience, having tried on probably hundreds jeans and buying not quite that many…better quality jeans usually fit better and last longer. Happy hunting!
Perfect Dress – this is usually referred to the Little Black Dress, or LBD. Sure, it can be black and little, but don’t limit your options. What this piece really represents is the dress that you can wear anywhere, fits wonderfully, and feels fabulous. Stay away from a bold print for this one, as that will make it less versatile, but by all means go for color. What really matters here is the fit…your not tugging the hem or adjusting the whole night are you? If you found a dress you love, but it doesn’t fit quite right, take it to a tailor and see what they can do. Wrap dresses are a good place to start as they are adjustable, or try a beautiful sheath dress. You are going to have to try on a lot to find one that really is perfect for you, but don’t get discouraged, think of the feeling when you finally find it.
Cashmere Sweater – this piece is instant glamour and feel-goodness all in one. Go for any color, as long as it’s versatile with the rest of your wardrobe. This piece is expensive because of the fabric, so once you invest in one, take care of it! You can wear it with trousers, jeans, skirts, even over your dress if it works. For a less expensive option, look for one that is a cashmere blend.
Pencil Skirt – va va voom! A well-fitting pencil skirt is all woman and chic-ness. The most flattering length will hit right at or just above the knee. If you are petite you can always have it taken up. Strategic seams can also be very flattering and slimming. This is a high-heeled look, and appropriate for work and fun.
Black Heels – and a really great pair at that. I’m certainly not saying you should have one pair of heels (I shudder at the thought), but a great pair of black ones will be the most versatile and take you the farthest. Heel height is your choice, but please don’t do a chunky heel. Chunky heels are not flattering and usually make your calves look thick too. Round toes are feminine, while pointy toes can make your legs look longer and make your whole outfit refined. If you think that pointy toed shoes are uncomfortable, you haven’t found the right pair yet. These heels will make your jeans dressed up, your pencil skirt sexy, and your suit sharp.
Ideally, these pieces are ones that you will wear over and over, and as such should be of high quality fabric and construction. The one item you can (and should) skimp on here is the layering t-shirt. You should buy these in a variety of colors, lengths, and cuts. I personally have found Target to carry the best selection of these, and at about $6.99 a pop, you can’t go wrong. The one key category that is missing from the above list is a whole separate issue – it’s your foundation wardrobe. An ill-fitting bra or visible panty lines can ruin a whole look, no matter how well-made or expensive and outfit is. I’m also a big believer in shapewear, which can make an outfit look superb and give you confidence. Don’t skimp on your foundation pieces or you’ll end up with shapeless bras with underwires popping out, and panties that don’t last 3 months. Once you have your basics down, you can start experimenting with trends. Not every trend is for everybody (literally), but have fun with them and don’t be scared to try something new. Jump to the Apparel Therapy trend page to see what’s going on now.
