Fashion 101: The 9 Items Every Closet Needs

Building a wardrobe can be a stressful, difficult task for even the most stylish ladies in the crowd. A good friend of mine recently asked me what I thought the most important things every woman - regardless of size, age, profession and budget - should have in her closet. It was a great question and it really made me think: what are those items?! Many of us have so much stuffed into our closets that we overlook the pieces that really serve as the building blocks for our style.

Flattering Jeans

Whether you prefer skinnies or bootcut, flares or boyfriend jeans a flattering pair of denim in your favourite wash will always be a favourite.

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Well-fitting Black Pants

From Christmas Concerts to conference calls, a great pair of black trousers can be dressed up or down and paired with just about everything in your closet.

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Black or Brown Ankle Boots

Whether you like a flat or a little heel, a great pair of ankle boots will work with summer dresses and your wool socks. (But if you can’t choose, I say get a pair of each. In both colours.)

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Stylish but Sensible Flats

Perfect for chasing the kids, a great pair of flats can be worn with everything.

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Classic Pumps

While I tend to recommend black pointy-toed pumps, I’ll be a classic enabler and suggest you find the perfect nude pair for your skin tone too. Choose a heel-height you’re comfortable with, and stick to a classic leather for versatility.

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A Tailored Button-down in a Neutral Shade

Perfect under your LBD or blazer or paired with jeans, a great button down is an outfit building block you can’t live without.

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A Simple Black Dress

Whether you’ve got somewhere special to be or you just need something to throw on for a Tuesday in the office, a simple LBD is the ideal “for anything” piece. Consider it a blank canvas and make your look your own with accessories.

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