Every person's style is unique and different, but there are a few key items that every wardrobe should have... Here's my take on every closet's must-have items.
1. A pair of comfortable jeans
Personally, I believe that a good pair of jeans goes a long way. I think its okay to splurge a little on a nice pair of jeans that fit, as long as you will get good use out of them. A good pair of jean, can be any cut, I like skinny cut jeans because of their versatility. With a pair of skinny jeans, you can roll them up and wear them as crops, but you can also wear them with boots! My favorite brand of skinny jeans are Paige, mainly because they fit well, but I also really like American Eagle's denim line.
Pro tip: If you are shopping for designer jeans, don't ever buy them at full price, it's not worth it. Go to your local Nordstrom Rack or Saks Off Fifth! If you want to shop online, 6pm.com is a good place to look.
2. All black athletic shorts
This may seem like a funny item to have on a must-haves list, but hear me out. The reason I am saying that black athletic shorts are essential, because they are versatile, mainly because you can style them different ways and dress them up for a cuter look, or dress them with a more athletic style. With a black pair of shorts, you can wear them with a comfortable t-shirt and some converse and call it a causal day. This doesn't with every pair of black athletic shorts, but I really like lululemon's Hotty Hot shorts,
or Soffe's Slick shorts (I couldn't find the adult sized ones online, but they have them at Academy in the store)!
3. Comfortable t-shirts
Striped or solid, tee's are essential to every girl's closet. The best thing about simple tee's are the versatility that you have with styling the piece. A solid tee could be paired with a statement necklace or scarf and jeans to complete an outfit. I like striped tee's because they are not as plain as a solid tee. People say that vertical stripes make a person look wider, but it really does depend on the cut of the shirt, everything looks different on everyone, because no two people are the same. Good solid basic colors include: grey, black, white, military green
Good stripe colors: black and white skinny stripes, blue and white block stripes
4. Loose swing dress or t-shirt dress
Dresses are a good piece for every closet, solid or striped are both good! If you aren't really into the whole dress thing, a simple black or grey romper works as well! The nice thing about the t-shirt dress or swing dress is the ability to dress it up or down depending on the occasion. Good places to shop for simple dresses are from either Target or Old Navy!
5. A pair of sandals
Sandals like Birkenstocks or strappy ones are an essential part of your wardrobe. The reason why is because they are versatile, can be worn formally or casually. If you haven't noticed the versatile trend, that is basically the key qualifier to make a piece "essential." If you don't want to splurge for a pair of Birks then you should check on Target!
6. A jean/military jacket
A jean jacket is a easy way to make to put on a extra layer without adding too much. If you don't really like denim that much, a green canvas jacket is a good thing to have as well. With a simple printed dress, you can add on a jean jacket to make the outfit more casual. An oversized chambray can be also substituted for a jean jacket as an even lighter option.
7. A fun pair of canvas shoes
A super easy way to add a pop to an outfit is by focusing on one aspect and making it the center of attention. I love shoes, so an simple way to make a statement is though my footwear. Fun Converse or Vans are comfy and easy to style for your lazy days. I have a pair of pink flamingo Vans, it sounds ridiculous, I know, but they are easier to style than you think. Find a pair that screams you! If you want to stick to something really simple, a solid black or white canvas shoe is good as well!
8. A statement scarf or necklace
When wearing a simple shirt with pop of color in a necklace or a scarf can completely change the whole look.
9. White or light blue blouse
Solid blouses are a simple way to dress an outfit up. Rather than wearing a tee, a blouse adds a sense of professionalism and feminism at the same time. A simple blouse could easily be paid with a printed pants or skirt. Solid blouses are simplistic and elegant.
10. A pair of comfortable flats
Comfy shoes go a long way... all you need is one pair. I have these DV by dolce vita flats and I love them because they fit and are easy to pair with any outfit. Having versatile shoes makes styling a lot easier, because you have more options that way.
11. A casual blazer or cardigan
The reason I say a casual blazer/cardigan is because sometime you have a super cute tank and need to have your shoulders covered up, lets say for church or for work. By throwing on a simple blazer or cardigan you are able to add the extra layer that you need for a more classic look.
Once you get the basics down, you can continue to build your closet with more bold, statement pieces. Have fun with fashion, use it to express your personality and who you are!
