Top Ten Basics

To kick things off, I wanted to start a little dialog about basics. Megan and I have a strong belief that looking fantastic should not cost you a truckload of money. That said, there are the things you should never, ever spend the money for the designer version of (such as candy colored denim, and it's probably safe to include anything with fringe in this category) and there are things you can consider an investment. For example, I love shoes. I typically buy moderately priced shoes (my most expensive pair were black boots that ran me a little over $200). I think that buying shoes that fit comfortably is more important than buying shoes that look similar and are cheaper because in the long run, I'll get more use out of them. The point is, a smart fashionista knows what makes a fashion investment and what will be hot one season and hidden in the back of her closet with her clogs, ponchos, and leather pants the next. Girls, open your closets. Hopefully you have most of these already. For what you're missing, make a shopping list and as you can afford each item, invest, and check it off the list. I give you the top ten pieces of clothing every girl needs:

1. Jeans. I'm cheating here by making this item a 2-for-1: you probably need 2 pairs. One hemmed for flat shoes and one hemmed for heels. Go for a clean, medium to dark wash- no whiskers, holes, fading, dirty wash, special finishes or fancy embellishments. Mid-rise, boot cut. This will be flattering and withstand the test of time. And don't buy the hot new brand just because they're trendy- if you spend $200 on trendy jeans that gap tremendously in the waist and the seams are being tested in the thighs...you have wasted your money. So: dark wash, proper size, great tailor.

2. The LBD. Ladies, the little black dress is a major wardrobe must. Wear it with diamond studs and a pretty necklace for weddings. It's perfect for a fancy date or a night out with the girls. If you're smart and buy a clean, simple dress, you can even get creative with some of the other items on this list and use it for work! My advice: choose straps that will hide your bra, because who wants to fight a strapless (and gravity) all night? Go with no more than 4 inches above the knee. We want to see a little leg, but do us a favor and leave something to the imagination.

3. The Classic Suit. Pair it with a crisp button down for interviews. Wear it to work. Slip into a silky camisole and you've got a great look for drinks. Go with a dark color (I like black), and a classic 3 or 4 button jacket for the most versatility. And call your tailor! Remember- some department stores include hemming at no charge, and most basic alterations are fairly reasonable in price. A good tailor will make a $150 suit fit like a $10,000 suit for next to nothing.

4. The Crisp White Shirt. It buttons down the front, has a collar and cuffs, and it's bright white. Keep it clean and pressed and you'll be amazed how much you'll get out of it. Wear it with jeans for a casual look, obviously with your suit, even put it over your LBD and tie a scarf around your neck for a fresh look for the office- the possibilities are endless. I like one with a bit of stretch, and for my fuller figured readers- please buy the next size up if the buttons are stressed and gapping around your chest. Have it tailored down to fit you- you'll look thinner AND way more appropriate!

5. The Go-To Skirt. Go with a classic A-line or pencil style- we'll discuss body types and what will work best for you another time. This will add to your work, date, and maybe even your "event" wardrobe if you do it right! Just remember: skirts that fall below the knee are rarely flattering. You want a style that hits a few (understand that "a few" means less than four) inches above the knee.

6. The Fitted Blazer. Fitted blazers are not skin tight. They are fitted, meaning they are more feminine than, say, if you stole your little brother's sport coat. This is a great option with your dark jeans for casual friday. It works with your skirt. It might work with your LBD, who knows? Go for a twill or a funky tweed in a neutral color or pattern for the most versatility.

7. The Black Pant. Go for a boot cut, mid-rise style. You want something that really flatters and shows your shape. You'll get a ton of mileage out of these at work, out with your friends, and you can even pair them with a glitzy top for special events. I have several pairs, but if you're only buying one pair, hem them for either flats or heels: whatever you're going to wear them with most.

8. The All-Weather Coat. I like a trench, but what's important is that you choose a classic style that will block the elements (like a trench!). A longer wool coat will do in a cold climate, but just becomes too heavy during the warmer months. Go for a trench.

9. The Daytime Dress. Maybe a bit of a misnomer, considering how much wear you'll actually get out of this one. Personally, I love shirtdresses and wrap dresses. Diane von Furstenberg is one of my heroes. Wrap dresses are flattering on most bodies, and you can find them at a variety of price points in a ton of colors and patterns. Wear it with flats for day, change into some sassy heels for evening.

10. The Sweater. Cotton or cashmere, crewneck or cardigan: Invest in one sweater that looks and feels fantastic- and invest in the dry cleaning to keep it that way! It will add color to your suit, skirt, black pants, or jeans when you layer it with your white shirt, and has the added bonus of keeping you warm! Stay away from the reindeer sweater or anything with too much embellishment- you want to be able to get a lot of mileage out of this.