Fashion is something that everyone loves to track. Men and women alike love to take risks, and see what works to express their individualism. Living in New York City, there are so many different trends and styles that are every changing, how could one poor college student keep up?! To help the many other young women like me, here are a few closet staples that can be mixed and matched to comply with any new and crazy trend.
18. An LBD
The classic closet staple. A little black dress is an essential to any girl who loves to accessorize. Especially in a cut like this, or something with simple straps and design, it's so easy to throw on great jewelry or fun heels, and play it up or down. In a staple item like this, simplicity is key. That way, it works with every season.
17. Boyfriend Jeans
Low rise boyfriend jeans are my new guilty pleasure, but they've been around forever, and aren't going anywhere in the near future. Pick a pair with a relaxed fit. They can be dressed down with white vans, or paired with a pump for a night out!16. Black Leather Jacket
Nothing screams "cool girl" more than a leather jacket. They go with everything, no questions asked. Invest in good leather, or vegan leather if that's more your style. Nothing is less stylish than cheap pleather number on top of a great outfit.15. A Pencil Skirt
Don't be afraid to get creative with color. Even if it is a staple, it doesn't have to be your mom's black pencil skirt she wears to work. A midi length is sophisticated chic, and a high waistline smooths your body for that great hourglass figure.14. Nude Pumps
A pump that matches your skin tone is great for elongating your legs. Perfectly paired with that LBD or those great boyfriend jeans you already have in your closet!13. A Statement Necklace
Everyone loves a good statement necklace! Even though it's a "staple", you can really get creative here. Go nuts!12. Tall Boots/ Riding Boots
Whether they're brown or black, paired with a dress, jeans, or leggings, tall boots are ready to complete a sassy outfit. They're perfect for fall and winter, and easy to tuck away for the warmer months. Check out this cool way of storing them when it's nice out!
11. Flannel
My flannel shirts (I have eight I think) are the most versatile pieces in my closet. They're obviously shirts, but they can also be jackets, belts, bags, accessories, and more. Also, flannel comes in lots of different colors that aren't the classic red or blue. Get creative, get vintage!10. A Tailored Blazer
Something I have yet to add to my collection, a blazer is the perfect way to say, "I'm a young professional". TIP: don't be afraid of the tailor. Buy a blazer that you love the color or style of, and then rely on a great tailor to really fit it to you. Even a cheaper jacket can look like a million bucks with a few nips and tucks.9. A Great Pair of Workout Leggings
We all know the feeling of getting to the gym, bending over to pick up you water bottle off the floor, and noticing that your favorite cotton leggings are totally showcasing that lime green thong you picked out this morning. By investing in a good pair of Lululemon, Nike, or Spanx leggings, we can all avert this disaster. Also, you can dress them up with your tall boots, and a long top!8. A Cool Hat
Whether it's a floppy brim, a baseball cap, a beanie, or even a cool fedora(?), a hat can be a lifesaver. It can add life to a simple outfit, or save a bad hair day. Play around with which styles fit your face! I recently discovered I love a vintage baseball cap worn backwards.7. The Perfect White Tee-Shirt
I'm pretty sure -- with the right styling -- that someone could wear a white tee-shirt to their own wedding and it would work. Just make sure you keep that baby nice and clean, otherwise you just look messy. No need to be expensive about this one.6. An Oversized Sweater
Cozy and comfortable, a great sweater can pair with many things. Go for a cool, neutral color, and a chunky knit.
5. Stylish Tennis Shoes
Now, I'm not talking about your bright pink trainers, with the rainbow laces. Invest in a nice pair of solid color (not neon) pair of tennis shoes to run errands or workout in. They're great to throw on, even for a night out with the girls.4. A Well Fitting Swimsuit
It's time ladies. Throw out that horrible swim suit you've had since middle school that smells like moldy chlorine. I know, I know, maybe it fits you "okay", but you're an adult now. Time to get something cute and adult-y. Try out some new and interesting styles, but don't settle. Find something that really flatters your body.3. A Fun Day Dress
With spring just around the corner, you'll want a fun dress to just throw on and go. A great cotton t-shirt dress (like this one from Brandy Melville) is easy to wash and wear and can be dressed up or down.
2. Demin Jacket
I love my denim jacket. They're fun to play around with and accessorize with patches and buttons and even your own embroidery skills if you're up to it. These are great finds at any vintage store. Play around with a fit you like.
1. A Graphic Tee
A graphic tee is a great way to broadcast your personality. Pick one that tells everyone what you're about. Check out some cool options here!