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| Photo by Itzafineday |
Just like any great “collection”, wardrobe hunting takes time and patience. Some of these items may inhabit your closet for many years, so choose wisely. Included is a brief summary of what you should be looking for in each category and why this item made the list.
1. The Perfect Pair of Jeans.
This item is at the top of the list primarily because of the versatility of this piece in the collection. The right pair of jeans can transition from a relaxed casual look to a sexy dressy look with a simple change in presentation. FTC recommends premium denim (pricier but the fit and quality make it a lasting item), preferably darker, but a subtle wash is okay too. Acid wash, cut-up or boyfriend style jeans have limited use, and in some cases are brief trends not worthy of investment by the more limited budget. Joes Jeans, Rock and Republic, AG jeans, Paige (ranked high for great fit), and 7 for All Mankind are a few brands that offer a variety of styles in higher quality denim. Prepare to invest $150.00 or more for a decent pair (remember for lower budgets buying one quality item versus 10 less expensive items will result in a longer lasting wardrobe).
Buy the right length and the right waist. Great sales reps can help you in that department. In some of these higher end jeans, sizing will vary. I can fit easily into Joe’s jeans but Rock and Republic lack enough thigh space for me. Like bra shopping, prepare to spend some time trying on a number of brands and styles before you buy the perfect pair. Different body shapes look better in different styles of jeans like boot cut, skinny, straight-leg, boyfriend etc. Pocket styles and different stylings can also highlight or minimize certain body parts. I have a flat butt for example, and a rear pocket with a tab- top, makes it look rounder.
2. White Blouse.
FTC recommends a plain, fitted shirt (not skin tight and not a potato sack like either). Remember white can be disposable so this item may be one that you replace on an annual basis depending on how much you wear it. This item also has a great deal of versatility and it matches everything! It can easily be dressed up with the right jewelry, a pretty scarf, or a cool belt. It will look great with your new jeans too!
3. The Perfect Black Dress.
Ahh, the endless hunt for the little black dress! Again FTC goes for a simple design in the cocktail variety. Not overly formal, but something that would be appropriate to wear to a wedding and an evening soiree with similar ease. Crazy embellishments or neck details are not necessary. Let your jewelry do the dressing up or down for you. He recommends mid length for versatility and look for an elegant design.
4. Black Leather Boots.
These can be very versatile items, available in a variety of styles. FTC is a bit of a boot hound, and he admits to collecting boots. He recommends something “slightly threatening” in style. To translate, look for boots that make a bold statement. A higher length boot can be worn with skirts or over jeans in a variety of looks. Ankle or mid length boots add a dressy touch to pants. A mid calf, heavy soled, buckled embellished boot offers a strong impression.
5. Denim Mini-Skirt.
FTC calls this look “casually seductive”. There are lots of styles, so try on different ones until you find one that flatters your form. Simple is better again for longevity. Even if you are not accustomed to wearing a shorter skirt (short for me means mid thigh) you might be surprised how often you wear this, for the slightly dressier evening, a first date or just out and about. It is super simple to maintain, and anything matches! Pair this with your white blouse and tall black leather boots, and voila, an effortless, classic outfit!
6. Capri Khakis.
FTC has always loved this look. He suggests that you avoid pleats. Like the perfect pair of jeans, look for the most flattering cuts, pocket styles etc. This again can be paired with many different items for casual or mid range dressy looks.
7. Vintage T-Shirts.
“This is not something you would wear for yard work or to the gym”, says FTC. “This would be something you would see a celebrity wearing in a photograph catching them ducking out of an LA café.” Look for vintage styles, often found in boutiques. Printing should be subtle, and the material worn, almost threadbare looking. Plastering an old logo on a new shirt does not achieve the right look. The more unique the better.
8. Black Cashmere Sweater.
FTC recommends a close fitting, simple version. This look is classic and warm! Cashmere can be on the expensive side and does require proper care and cleaning. Regular laundering will destroy it! I have been a wash and wear girl for quite some time, as I am a lazy at dry-cleaning, and have destroyed my share of clothing.
9. Hooded Sweat Shirt.
FTC ranks this item very high on the list. He suggests a close fitting style again, not a jumbo baggy one. Try wearing it over a vintage tee with your awesome jeans, and your slightly threatening boots, and you have a great casual outfit.
10. Unique Sandals.
“Something that is functional but has a unique style, not something that everyone else is wearing”, says FTC. He prefers open toe, perhaps a wedge, and something that makes a statement. I have observed this look on a few women who are wearing a typical outfit like shorts and vintage tee, then on their feet they have an open toed wedged sandal, perhaps with the straps that wrap up their legs, and gosh darn they look great! Don’t be afraid of heels, even if you are tall. I am tall and often would buy flat shoes to hide my height. FTC has taught me to highlight this as a great physical feature. I have to admit, it is kind of cool to come towering into a room.
11. Short Button-Up Jacket.
FTC candidly shares that this style lets your butt show, and he likes it. Pair this with the jeans you bought that flatter your behind, and you have a great look. He suggests that a faux fur collar on this jacket can be flattering as well.
12. Big Buckled Belt.
“Don’t get gaudy”, cautions FTC. I would suggest in investing in multiple leather colors as well to transition with your outfits. Our outfits are building: great pair of jeans, white blouse, short button up jacket, big buckled belt and hot black boots.
13. Movie Star Sunglasses.
“Never wear sporty glasses unless you are participating in a sport”, FTC says. There is something mysterious and intelligent about the look. Avoid going over the top with blinged-out eye wear. Choose a shape that fits your face. FTC likes round, but that doesn’t look good on everyone. The general point I think, is an oversized lens area.
14. Black Leather Jacket.
This again can offer a lot of versatility. Choose high quality leather and an interesting cut. Perhaps look for longer sleeves. This will look great with your jeans or over your cashmere sweater. Longevity of styling is important. Look for fit and style that hits at waist or to the mid thigh. This will be another big investment in the wardrobe, so take your time and choose wisely.
15. A Go-To Purse.
This is a realm that FTC admits he possesses a blind spot for. My mother used to always buy the same style of black leather purse every few years whey they wore out. This is how I learned purse shopping Some women collect purses and buy them ferociously. I visit a few designer outlet stores online where great deals can be found on pricey designer brand clothing and accessories (see the noteworthy site list). When purses come out from Prada or Burberry, within minutes of opening to shoppers, all of them are gone! . Purses are a safe buy…as an accessory, they won’t necessarily break an outfit, but they can make it. The number and quality of purses you buy is up to you.
16. Long Dress with High Slit.
FTC loves this look. This is something that hints at what lies beneath and can create a dramatic impression. He calls it a “tease”. We are not talking trashy here however. Simple and elegant are your key phrases once again. When a more formal event pops up, this is a great item to have on hand.
17. Dangly Earring.
“This isn’t something you see your crazy aunt wearing.” FTC is not picky here however. The length and style of the earrings can vary and finish an outfit nicely.
18. Daring Hat.
The first image that comes to mind is the wide brimmed straw hat. This is not the kind of hat we are recommending however. FTC prefers engineer caps for example. I have several friends who have these funky, cool hats, they add to their dressy casual outfits, and I love the way it looks. I have always been a little shy to go there, but hey I have a denim mini skirt and I like it, so I will give it a try.
19. Ribbed Tank Top.
Hard to imagine the traditional “wife beater” tank top can be fashionable, but men like FTC find this look very sexy. Colors can vary but is should be fitted. Bra straps showing is fine these day, but I recommend getting some skinning strap, colored bras to create a more interesting look.
20. Weird Necklaces.
Again not something you see your crazy aunt wearing or cheap costume jewelry. Funky necklaces that make a statement and that can transform an outfit from casual to dressy, just like that.
Remember that this is a starting point. You can have a very clear inventory here on what pieces you have and build from there. There is also a huge amount of room for individual styling. From conservative to flamboyant, you can find a range of possibilities within each item. You can begin to fill in the holes of your collection and build on the basics with items that you love and reflect your personality.
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