Closet Essentials

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  As a clothing stylist working with real people, I am often asked what items of clothing every person should have in their closet. So, I have compiled a list tha may differ from other fashion consultants.  The difference with my list is that it is universally flattering and can last many years in your wardrobe without updating. So here we go:

  Starting on the outside, I recommend that each person have a 3/4 length coat in their closet.  This length should hit anywhere from mid-thigh to the knee. This piece is extremely versatile easily going from work to play. The coat can range in style from a belted trench to a seamed fitted coat depending on your body shape. Now if you live somewhere with a temperate climate then buy a coat in a fabric that can be worn year around like a polished cotton or wool gabardine. If you experience colder weather you may need to invest in one made of a heavier wool as well. Now that we have talked about the shape and fabric, color choice is up next. If black is a good color for you and works with your wardrobe then go for it. If black is not your best color, which is most of us, think about navy, light gray or camel. There are some amazing camel coats out this season. Try to stick with a color that will not seem out of fashion in a year or two. You want to be able to wear the coat for at least 5 years. And remember invest in the best quality you can afford!

  Continuing on the outside one must  have a short fitted jacket.  This is an item you will wear for work and weekend.  The jacket should hit at the hip bone. It gives everyone a nice trim torso.  It will enhance the figure that has curves and give a figure without them curves! If you are starting out get this jacket in a fabric that can be worn year around like a wool crepe or gabardine. Once you have a basic one you can then add ones in velvet or tweed for winter and cotton or linen for summer.

  Moving down let’s look at trousers. A wide leg flat front trouser look fab on everyone and makes the legs appear longer. If you are on the petite side beware of the width of the leg; too big and it will overwhelm you. The flat front will cut the tummy in half making it smaller. This is helped further by a wider waistband that hits about an inch below the belly button. Again go for a fabric and color that you can wear all year.

  The next item is an a-line skirt. I chose this because an a-line flatters all body shapes by hugging nicely at the waist and gently flaring out. It is similar to the fitted jacket as it gives curves or enhances them.

  Everyone should own at least one dress. An empire seamed dress will work for all. The empire cut has a seam under the breasts, which emphasizes the smallest part of a woman’s body.what happens under the seam can vary depending on body types. A person who is straight up and down or thin can handle more volume such as gathers or pleating. But for hourglass shapes or a person with larger breasts this can be disaster veering into maternity wear!

  A button front cardigan is also something you will want in your closet. It can be worn over a dress, under a jacket or by itself. By buttoning the middle buttons only it will draw the eye in creating a waist, which has the same effect with curves as those mentioned above.

  A simple classic white button down shirt is always handy. I would opt for one that has darts or princess seams so it will be fitted. This shirt can be worn as work wear, with jeans or trousers and even with a  full length evening skirt a la Sharon Stone at the Oscars in 1998. It can take you anywhere!

  Well, that is a good starting point for closet essentials, and we didn’t even get to accessories! Look for those coming up.

  Photo by: TheSnake

  
  
  November 18th, 2010 | admin | 2 Comments |

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