Top 10 Wardrobe Basics Every Closet Should Have

We’ve all heard the statistic that women only wear 20% of the clothing in their closets on a daily basis. Many fall into this statistic. If one has a good “basic” wardrobe to begin with the possibilities are endless. Here is a list of the most useful items for any closet.

Little Black Dress

Coco Chanel made it famous. This is the one piece of clothing that will never go out of style. If you’re looking to channel Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn invest in a classic sleeveless shift dress. It can easily be dressed up with stilettos and a bit of sparkles or throw a lightweight cardigan and flats on for a more casual look. Whether it’s a mini, fitted or maxi-dress a LBD is an essential wardrobe piece. Make sure to keep it simple and have your accessories be your embellishments.

Pencil Skirt

There is nothing more classic than a pencil skirt. It’s one of the best classic wardrobe pieces, as it can easily be transformed. For fall add a belted cardigan sweater with bold-colored tights and ankle boots for a fashionable office look. There are some amazing pencil skirts this season in prints as well as solid colors.

T-Shirts

A wardrobe is not complete without t-shirts. This is one area where stocking up on inexpensive brands is perfectly acceptable. T-shirts should only last one season as white tends to turn yellow after too many washes and dark colors fade after too many run-ins with the dryer. They are great layering pieces that work with jeans and a blazer to a pencil skirt and heels.

Blazer

This season it’s all about blazers. Bold shoulders, boyfriend, military-inspired and tailored blazers means there’s one for every occasion. A blazer can instantly toughen or add class to your outfit thereby offering you more looks to create with your wardrobe.

5. Amazing Shoes

Shoes should be one area in your closet that you allot a little more money to. They can instantly take your outfit from drab to fabulous. Every woman should own a nude pump, a classic black patent leather pump and an embellished flat. As far as I’m concerned there’s no need to stop there, the sky’s the limit as far as how many shoes are enough. A good pair of shoes can last forever, especially if you have a good cobbler on speed dial!

Classic Handbags

Spend with confidence on a classic, exceptionally made bag from such designers as Prada, YSL, Chanel, Louis Vuitton or any other high-end designer. Stay away from trendy hardware or patterns opting to stick instead with solid colors. A well made bag will be yours forever…and you can always use the rational that one day it’ll be vintage to help ease the anxiety when handing over your credit card!

Jeans

Where would we be without jeans? They have become a classic in everyone’s wardrobe. There is a fit and wash for every occasion and then some. Choose a pair that fit your body and make you feel amazing. If you are just starting out, choose a dark wash as it gives the illusion of being slimmer and also has a more polished look thereby expanding your closet.

Cashmere Sweater

Cashmere is something you can wear all year long. While good cashmere can be pricy, it’s worth the splurge in the long run. It will last a lifetime with proper care as it won’t thin or lose it’s shape.

Scarves

SA Always a bit jealous of French women and wonder how they get their amazing style? Well steal one of their staples and incorporate a scarf into your wardrobe. A scarf is so versatile and there are so many options available. They are not just for winter. Throw one over a maxi dress as you hit the farmer’s market on the weekend. Splurge on a large printed silk scarf from Hermes and the possibilities are endless.

10. Classic Trench Coat

The classic trench coat is a staple wardrobe item that never goes out of style. It exudes timeless class while protecting one from the elements. Whether one goes practical or trendy, long or short, a trench is a flattering option for every body type. One can pair with a suit for work or jeans for the weekend, a trench coat is a piece one will keep coming back to year after year.

For more style tips visit: www.ShopSmartLookFab.com

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Looking Good at the Beach

Summer is here and it's time to stock up on this season's must-have essentials. It's all about looking good at the beach.

Bathing Suit - Whether it's a one-piece or bikini make sure to wear one that makes you feel fabulous. When you feel amazing you'll look amazing! Tomas Maier Swimsuit, $435

Cover-Up - Look extra chic in this embroidered tunic, whether walking to lunch or just covering the shoulders after a day in the sun. Anna Sui Tunic, $322

Beach Bag - It's the stylish bag of tricks! Look amazing while carrying all of your summer beach essentials. Louis Vuitton Tote, $1080

Hat - Protect your hair and face from the sun's strong UV rays. You'll be the smart yet sophisticated one at the beach this summer. JLo Large Striped Straw Hat, $22.99

Sunglasses - Your beautiful peeps need protection from the sun as well. They also are a great way to check out that cute guy sitting next to you without him even knowing! Tom Ford Lillian Sunglasses, $450

Beach Towel - Makes taking an afternoon nap comfortable on the sand. Emilio Pucci Beach Towel, $340

Wedges - Nothing says summer is here like a pair of wedges. They also help to make your legs and backside look summerlicious! AE Strappy Espadrilles, $29.95

Sunscreen - The only way to keep your skin looking young is to lather on the sunscreen. Besides protecting you from getting sunburned, it helps to protect against wrinkles and early aging caused by sun damage. Lancaster 30 SPF, $25

Hair Protection - Be a good girl and make your colorist proud by spraying a sun protection mist in your hair this summer. Phyto Protective Beach Spray, $18

French Tweets

Louis Vuitton is keeping up with its tech-savvy clients by joining Twitter this past Friday. This is Vuittion's first venture into the social networking community. Followers will stay up-to-date with the brand, gaining information on celebrity sitings, design collaborations and product launches.

Louis Vuitton is very aware that the Internet is a prominent marketing and sales tool and has enhanced their website, www.louisvuitton.com, accordingly by offering exclusive content. Last Friday, it launched the Totally Monogram tote on its site. The bag, available in three sizes, will be sold exclusively on the site until June 1. After which, it will be sold at Louis Vuitton stores. Vuitton is now the only online shopping destination for its products, which are no longer offered at eLuxury.com.