On My Radar - Winter Basics

I've been a bit preoccupied lately with family and getting my new business started. My apologies for being MIA. I'm working on finding a balance for all of my fashion loves. Please bear with me. Today, I thought I'd share some of my favorite winter basics. I own a few of these and others are on my "must buy" list.

Over the last year I've found that my style is definitely evolving. I used to go for lots of sequins and printed stand out tops. Now, most days I start with some basics for my foundation and add great jackets, jewelry, and accessories. I've noticed that on casual days I reach for my jeans (loving my burgundy NYDJ pair) and a t-shirt or thin sweater. For work, I'm going for solid or printed pants and a solid top (blouse, sweater, or top). Adding eye catching jewelry and a statement bag is a must for me. I adore heels but this winter oxfords and classic boots have been my go-to shoes. They are comfortable for my RA and they keep my feet warm. They definitely aren't as sexy as heels but I've decided that if flats are going to be my staples that I will own great flats.

• Black Wrap Coat - I already own a tan wrap coat but it's long. I keep wishing for a black version and I love the collar on this one from Tahari but sadly, it looks like it's out of stock in my size. I guess I will be on the hunt for another one.
• Layered Silver Necklace - I love silver and this necklace is a new favorite, by Stella and Dot. It also comes in a gold and quartz version. You can wear the chains separately or together! Three looks in one. 
• Custom Engravable Cuff Bracelet - This bracelet is a fun take on a traditional monogram. You can get up to 14 characters and lots of different configurations. It also comes in gold and it's by Stella and Dot. The phrase on it is part of one of my favorite movie lines (from Terminator 2) and a personal philosophy. "The future's not set. There's no fate but what we make for ourselves."  As much as I love great fashion, it's what we do in those clothes that really matters.
• Bright Bag - A bright colored bag can add just the right pop of color to a solid outfit. The cobalt blue version of the Paris Market Tote by Stella and Dot is on my wish list. The leather is buttery soft and the Stella and Dot bags are made by the same company that produces bags for Marc Jacobs. 
•  Black Ankle Boots - Originally I intended to get a pair of zip up ankle boots. They will replace a pair I've had for ages, that I've intended to replace for years. Unfortunately, I didn't purchase the ones I spied in the fall, fast enough and now they are gone. As luck would have it Zara is having their end of the season sale. I scored these beauties the other day, as well as a pair of black pointed toe loafers with gold detail.

 I'm composing outfits in my head, as I type this post. Hopefully, I will have some time soon to put up a few outfits post.

What are your go to winter basics?

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.

A Basic Foundation

I love edgy, funky and standout pieces but I mix those with my classic pieces that stand the test of time. These go to basics are a great foundation, no matter your personal style. A while back I took a basic t-shirt and jeans and added accessories and shoes to make three different outfits. These basics can work for anyone as a foundation for their wardrobe.



Click photos for buying information.

At first glance these items don't seem exciting or stand out.  That's really the point. They are the foundation of an exciting wardrobe. They are the canvas for your statement necklace or coat, your fancy top, or that amazing jacket you just had to buy. You can even mix and match these basics for some great outfits. Add a few accessories and you're set.

White Button Up Blouse - can be worn with jeans or a skirt. Add a necklace or a scarf and you're set.

Motorcycle Jacket - I wear my leather moto jacket with jeans and with my skirts and dresses. If a biker jacket isn't you, choose a more simple leather or faux leather jacket. If you select a style with few embellishments and a flattering shape, it will last for years.

Cashmere Tee - I wear my lightweight cashmere tee alone and layered with a shirt. I throw it on with jeans on the weekend and with a skirt for work. The lightweight cashmere is warm but not too hot for layering.

Simple Women's Cut T-shirt - A simple t-shirt is so versatile. A women's cut is more flattering for women (petite to plus) and isn't boxy. I love my gray t-shirts. I have quite a few but any other neutral would do (white, black, ivory, tan). I usually snag mine at Old Navy or Target. I think paying a ton for a t-shirt is crazy.

Black A-Line Dress - Most lists say that you should buy a black sheath dress. I disagree. An a-line dress is flattering on all body types and it's more forgiving when you gain or lose a few pounds. If the fit is good you won't even need Spanx (bonus). I'm a pear shape (I'm sure you've noticed) and an a-line dress looks better on my shape than a sheath. My sister is tall and lean and proportional. She looks great in both.

Black Ankle Boots - They go with everything! Pants, skirts, dresses, casual or a bit dressy. I wear mine constantly. They work for more than half the year.

"Nude" Flats (or Heels) - I have both nude flats and nude heels. If you want something in between, go for a mid or kitten heel. They elongate your legs and will work with every outfit you own. Remember, nude is not universal. You'll want to try on your "nude" flats or pumps to make sure they work with your skin tone. My friends with darker skin tones will want to gravitate toward a tan or brown shoe.

Jeans (Dark Wash) - A great fitting pair of jeans (skinny or straight leg) can be dressed up or down depending on the day. I own both skinny and straight leg jeans. There are lots of brands and they all have a different fit. I love NYDJ jeans. They work for my pear shape and come in tons of styles and colors. You can always find them on sale for great prices at places like Nordstrom Rack, 6pm.com, and Amazon.com.

I'll expand on styling these basics over the next few weeks.

Fashion and Style Quote of the Day (#9)

I've always thought of the T-shirt as the Alpha and Omega of the fashion alphabet.

- Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani is known for his amazing dresses, gowns and beautifully tailored suits.  His personal daily uniform usually consists of black pants and a t-shirt.  I have to agree with Mr. Armani. I love all sorts of fashion but I adore a soft easy t-shirt.  It is a great base for a fantastic outfit.  There is always the choice of a basic v-neck or crew neck t-shirt (which are my favorites) or you can grab one with a little visual interest like runching or a peplum. I never pay more than $20 for a t-shirt, in fact most of my t-shirts cost less than $10.  I personally don't see the point in spending a ton for a basic shirt.  Many fashionistas sing the praises of  James Pearse.  His basic cotton t-shirts sell for about $65.  That's not practical for me.  Especially when I can get one at Old Navy for $5 or less, on sale.  Some of my go to t-shirts are from Old Navy.

My favorite t-shirt is made of Lyocell.  I got it at Target years ago.  They don't make that style any longer and I'm constantly on the hunt for one that is similar.  It's the perfect heather gray, it's soft, stretchy and has retained it's shape over the years and hasn't shrunk.  I don't have any other t-shirts in my wardrobe that have lasted so long.  It's amazing. Hopefully, I'll find a similar shirt sometime soon.

There are so many styles and fabric options available, there is a shirt for every style and budget.

The Perfect T-Shirt by Real Girl Runway

Peplum T-shirt, $17
Pure Body T | Gap, $17
Women's Fitted Scoop-Neck Tees | Old Navy, $9.50
Women's Vintage-Style V-Neck Tees | Old Navy, $8.50

A great t-shirt can show off your favorite jeans or dress down your fanciest skirt. You can wear one to the beach with shorts or to the office with a skirt.  T-shirts are truly one of my favorite wardrobe staples.

Jeans and a T Plus...

Recently a friend commented that she usually works from home in just jeans and a tee and she said it would be nice to dress up sometimes. That comment gave me the idea for this post (thanks Kris!). When I work from home I usually dress the same way. Getting dolled up isn't always practical day to day. I knew I could start with just jeans and a simple gray t-shirt and create several different outfits by just adding a few pieces.

A work at home woman or mom might need to go to an appointment or a meeting during the day. Maybe it's a working lunch, a meeting at your child's school or a medical appointment. Starting with basic dark wash jeans and a gray v neck t-shirt, I added a tweed jacket, some pearls, a watch, and some coordinating kitten heels.

For a night out or just dinner with your sweetie, add a tuxedo jacket or satin jacket, cool heels and some sparkly jewelry. If you don't want to wear heels, try a pretty pair of flats.

Running errands doesn't have to mean boring or sloppy. By adding a few classic touches, a trench coat, colorful flats, a pendant necklace, a timeless timepiece, and some simple studs, your jeans and tee become polished.

You can take these outfits and make them your own. Use what you have in your own closet. Your jeans and favorite tee can be the basics for a fantastic outfit. They are an easy uniform for home and can quickly transition with your changing day.

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.