Styling the Basics - Weekend Edition

I feel like it's been a long week already, which is very sad, since it's only Tuesday. I'm already longing for the weekend. I decided to appease my weekend desire and style some of the basic foundation pieces I told you about last week. As I told you these foundation pieces are like a blank canvas for accessories. Just by adding different touches you can change an entire look.

Click the items for buying information.

For me, weekends call for easy walking shoes and layers. I'm usually doing lots of things, activities for organizations, errands, and maybe lunch out with friends. I don't always have time to run home to change, so my outfit has to work for everything. This one works because it's comfortable and stylish but casual enough for the weekend. The bag is great for errands and the standout jacket gives it punch for lunch out with friends. I snagged this jacket, over the weekend at Target (with a left over Christmas gift card). I can't stop wearing it.

 

Just by changing up the shoes, bag and jewelry, this versatile black dress goes from rock show to a date night dinner. The leather jacket and booties give the dress a rocker vibe. The cross body bag works to keep my hands free at a show, where I may be standing the whole night. Swap out the booties for heels and the cross body bag for a clutch. Add some sparkly jewelry and I'm ready for a fancy dinner with {msL}.

Accessories can be the least expensive items in your wardrobe. Starting with basic pieces, you can use them to totally change your look.

Begin with the Basics (part 1 of 10)

One of the questions I get most often is, "What pieces do I need to build a great wardrode." Today I am starting a series of ten entries on the essential foundation pieces you need.  There are lots of ideas out there when it comes to wardrobe building blocks.  I believe that regardless of personal style, there are a few items that everyone needs. These pieces can be styled to fit almost everyone's style.  You can find affordable options for all of these items. However, quality is key, since they will be timeless staples. Quality does not have to mean high cost.   

The items are:

1. Little Black Dress (LBD)
2. Dress Pants
3. Classic White Dress Shirt
4. Jeans
5. Skirt
6. Jacket
7. Weekend Uniform Option
8. Trench Coat
9. Any Occasion Top
10. Classic Pump or Flat

#1        

Little Black Dress (LBD)  or a Black Pants Suit – This is a wardrobe staple. It can be dressed down for day and dressed up for night. Pick the silhouette that works for your figure. If you’re top heavy, apple, or evenly proportioned, a sheath can be best. If you are pear or triangle shaped an a-line will be most flattering.

If you prefer to wear pants, then look for a black pants suit. It can also be dressed up or down. It can even be used like a tuxedo for a formal event. If you are different sizes on the top and bottom, don't forget, many lines make separates that you can pair together to make a suit.

All of these options come in both regular and plus sizes. Fit is extremely important. Don't hesitate to get an item altered.  A good tailor is worth every penny.  Tailoring increases your costs but can make a $50 dress look like it was custom made for you.