"I have nothing to wear." said every woman I know.
Next time you go shopping pick up some of these closet staples:
1. Basic Tees: scoop neck, v-neck, crew neck
Yes, basic T-shirts. You don't have to get every color, but you should have one of each of these colors: white, black, or gray. Also, look for different styles as well so that you have options, but if you have a favorite then stick to your favorite. My favorites are a scoop neck tee or crew neck tee.
2. Jeans, Jeans, Jeans
Of course you HAVE to HAVE jeans! They are a must have all year round, especially for the Fall/Winter months. I keep about 4-7 pairs of jeans in my closet. With the maximum of 7, you can get many styles ranging from boot cut to skinny. Also 7 allows you to choose from a variety of wash styles and colors (dark wash, light wash, distressed, ripped, pink, black, purple etc). 7 pairs of jeans will allow you to get different wash styles, and experiment with different jean styles so you won't have the same pair of pants. If you decide that you want dark wash jeans in skinny, distressed, boot cut, flare etc then do that. With jeans, you don't have to buy a lot because they are versatile and can be worn with anything to just about any occasion.
3. Black Blazer
There's nothing like a black blazer to say you're about your business. Not only that, a blazer adds a classic touch to any outfit and makes any outfit go from casual to chic. Add pins and patches to make it fun or just keep it simple, your choice.
4. Printed Scarves
Printed scarves or scarves in general! It's best to get your Winter scarves in the Summer/Fall time because they're cheaper. Thin scarves or summer scarves as I like to call them help me with my bad hair days. I use it to tie my hair up or to create a wide headband to make it look like I effortlessly did my hair. Scarves can be used during the summer/fall months for head wraps or worn tied around the neck for an effortless look.
5. Statement Jewelry
You always have to have a statement piece to top off your outfit. It could be earrings, necklaces, bracelets or rings. Jewelry can be expensive, but you can purchase a statement piece from just about anywhere, it doesn't have to be expensive. If you want something real and customized, do that. Either way you can find a piece and make it your own.
6. Dresses
A dress is an outfit on its own, all you would have to do is put on your shoes, add a cardigan (if needed), grab your purse and go. Dresses are an essential piece to ones closet because it provides you with an effortless look and dresses aren't limited to a season. In the summer you can bare your legs and in the winter you can put on your favorite stockings/tights. So versatile, so needed in your closet.
7. Signature Coat/Jacket
There's nothing like that award winning coat that you've spotted in Zara or that boyfriend jean jacket that you saw in Urban Outfitters. Coats and jackets are worth the splurge, because once you obtain one they last a long time. It's best to invest in a nice coat, jackets are staples but they don't need to be expensive or anything fancy. If you decide to invest in both, that's good too.
8. Sneakers
Everyone needs at least 2-3 pairs of sneakers in their closet. Even if you're not a sneaker person, you should buy a pair of running/walking sneakers for those weekend errands. If you are a sneaker person I would assume that you have more than 2-3 pairs of sneakers in your closet. You would know to have a pair that expresses your personality, a favorite color pair and a pair for workouts/errands. Sneakers are now so versatile, and comfortable. You don't only wear them with sweatpants and jeans you now wear them with dresses/skirts.
9. Printed tees/Graphic tees
Yeah I mentioned basic tees, but you should also have tees in your closet that expresses some personality. Also, graphic tees are easy to style and a easy staple to a pair of jeans in your closet, add a pair of sneakers, you're ready to go.
10. The Black Pant
A black pant is equivalent to a black blazer, it adds some sheen to a dry outfit. It makes any outfit chic and to the point. Black is such a versatile color, and you can pair a black pant with just about anything. It also works for professional purposes like school or work. I'd say keep 3 pairs of these in your closet in different styles of course add some color and you're ready.
11. The Classic Pump
A classic pump is needed for any woman's closet. It's such a transitional pair of shoes, they can literally go from office to hangout. I tend to stick with neutral colors (black, nude, gray) because they coincide with anything. Those colors are my "never go wrong colors". With a pump, you can go from work to hanging out with your girls in a second. The pump is very versatile and a very stylish addition to any outfit.
12. A Classic Bag
A classic bag is another key accessory to your closet. Go to colors are normally brown and black, usually leather. If you can't afford a leather bag, it's fine we are college students so a reliable tote or book-bag will do. If you're going for a more professional look, a tote is the way to go and if you're going for a more casual look a book-bag or cross body is the way to go. Your classic bag will carry all the necessities you will need and more.