A Starter List

Every time I go to the mall I am looking for a particular piece, or three. It isn’t a completely random process for me. I do my research and always have certain things in the back of my mind that I have contemplated as a nice addition to my closet. Not a grocery list of things per say, if I did that I would end up disappointed most of the time, since things aren’t always on sale or even in stores yet. But it is nice to have an idea in your mind so that when you find it and bring it home you can actually pair it with the items you already own, as opposed to it being just a random piece that sits lonely on it’s hanger.

I really think that’s a problem a lot of people have. A garment is lovely in the store, so you buy it, bring it home, but have no idea how to wear it.

Here is a list of items that I compiled with my friends Melissa and Deeana yesterday of basics that everyone should have to complete most outfits.

1. A brown belt that you can wear around your waist or hips. – A lot of woven belts are perfect for this because you can slip the hook through in various places. I say brown because often I will buy a dress that I think is slightly too formal for everyday wear but the brown makes it more casual.
2. Black and brown flat boots - If you are choosing between the two I recommend brown for the same reason as before, but black is important too. Wearing jeans and a top is easy, but then you slip on your sneakers or Uggs and whoops all your effort is gone. Boots complete any outfit, especially in the colder weather. (And a secret: They are just as comfortable as sneakers; just don’t exercise in them.)
3. One black and one white loose fitted camisole – I love the ones I have because they have a T-Strap in the back so it doesn’t look like I’m letting my bra straps show. These are so important for lace or see through tops. I wear them with crop tops when it’s cold and for so many other reasons. I say loose because it is much more flattering on any body type.
4. A leather jacket - It completes more outfits than you would realize and keeps you warmer than your sweatshirt.
5. A peacoat – See #4
6. A scarf – It actually helps you stay warm even if it is a thin one and it adds oomph to any outfit.
7. Heels you love – If you buy a pair of heels you love you will want to wear them. Heels are so much fun to wear and are a great way to add interest to any outfit, not to mention your legs and posture improve by a million. I realize it’s hard to wear them during the day for so long, that’s why a pair of wedges are also important. (Whenever I try on an outfit in the dressing room I literally stand on my toes  because the outfit always looks better and less frumpy; try it, it really works.)
8. An AMAZING strapless bra – Sophomore year in high school was the last year you had an excuse to show your bra straps. Unless they are the most gorgeous bra straps you have ever seen, they are a complete NO.
9. A blazer – See #4
10. Dark wash fitted jeans - These are so versatile and go great with everything, the dark wash helps you look slimmer and are much less casual than a lighter wash. My favorite pair I can wear out to a nice place at night, or just around the house during the day.

There you have it. My personal list of starter items any wardrobe should have. If you have any others you think I’m missing let me know!