While there is a lot of information about wardrobe essentials for each season and we constantly hear about the constantly changing trends, we believe it’s more important to build your wardrobe around what makes you look best. Here’s a list of 10 essential items that should serve as a base of your wardrobe. It’s best to get these clothing items in good quality and from brands that you trust, since we’re pretty sure you’ll reach for them most often and they will remain in your wardrobe all year long.
Shapewear
Let’s start with the most controversial item on the list – shapewear. We’re not listing it because it’s something you must wear all the time. Not at all, feel free to avoid it altogether if you don’t like it. We firmly believe that people should dress in a manner that makes them feel the most comfortable. However,if you feel like perhaps you want to own it just in case, for the days that you want to embody the unrealistic ideals portrayed in Hollywood (because let’s be real, they all wear shapewear to the red carpet) here are some of the things you should look for in. First and foremost – don’t skimp on the price. While shapewear is technically an undergarment and isn’t meant to be seen, it’s meant to shape and form, while still feeling comfortable. So it’s best to splurge and buy something that is made of a durable and comfortable fabric. Another thing to look for is the sticky grippy things on the inside, that will help keep the shapewear in place and stop it from moving and rolling down.
Jeans
We think jeans are essential because it’s something we reach for most days. Which style of jeans you prefer is up to you, but we’re still pretty enamored with mom jeans just because they’re so comfortable. When buying jeans make sure you try them on first, or if you’re ordering online, check that the store has a good return policy. It’s best to try out a few brands, familiarize yourself with the size ranges and once you find your favorites – invest in a few pairs of different colors or styles. We think it’s always good to have at least three pairs of jeans: black, dark blue and light denim with rips. Those three should really cover all sort of occasions.
Black Basic T-shirt
We’re talking essentials here, so a black T is really one of those basics that you’ll reach for all the time. You want something that’s soft, not too stiff and that fits nicely. It’s also pretty important to find a black T-shirt that doesn’t lose color over time, so that you can keep wearing and layering it with your outfits without it losing it’s shade and shape in just a few washes.
Cropped Cardigan
Cardigans are amazing for layering your outfits, especially for those transitional times of year when the temperature changes rapidly throughout the day and you just don’t know whether to wear a t-shirt or a sweater. Cropped cardigans in particular are great for showing off your curves, since they visually cinch in your waist and elongate your legs. And they look equally good with high-waist jeans, skirts and dresses.
Maxi Skirt
Maxi skirts are one of the most flattering items of clothing for curvy women. It’s flowy, it’s pretty, and if you get one that is adjustable at the waist and you can cinch it in or loosen it up (depending on how you feel that day) it can really be one of those items of clothing that pulls together an outfit and makes you look effortlessly stylish while feeling extremely comfortable.
Denim Jacket
They go with everything and are a great way to dress up or dress down the outfit. There are many styles to choose from depending on what you like best, but we are partial to a cropped denim jacket that’s on the looser side. Not quite oversized or boyfriend style, but something that feels comfortable and you can just throw on easily.
Dungarees
This is something you probably weren’t expecting in a list of essentials, but trust us, you need a pair of dungarees (or overalls, depending on what part of the world you’re from). The style of dungarees you’re gonna go for will depend on your shape and height and preference, but we think that skirt dungarees are universally flattering and can actually look pretty dressy if you buy them in black denim or in corduroy of any color. For the more casual and laid back vibe we recommend dark denim dungarees. Dungarees are also great for layering and can be warm with warm tights and a long sleeve top in the winter and a simple tee in the summer.
Belt
Belts are an essential because they can literally pull together any look. Obviously you can wear them with high-waisted jeans to draw even more attention to your waist. But Belts are also great for cinching in any dress and instantly giving you that hourglass look.
A Coat
While puffer jackets might be all the rage these days, a nice coat is something that can make you look instantly chic. This is one of those items of clothing that will last you years, so make sure to go for a quality fabric and a good fit. You’ll spend a pretty penny on it but it will definitely be worth it.
