by Isabelle Esteves

Created on: January 09, 2013

When it comes to women’s fashion, for many women, there is no such thing as too much. But if you are trying to build a basic wardrobe, there are a few classics that are the building blocks of a wardrobe that can grow over the years and still look good. Narrowing it down to five may be a little difficult, but it is definitely possible. 

Before discussing what the five wardrobe pieces that every woman needs, it is import to discuss a few other things. First of all is quality. When choosing the pieces that are the foundation of a wardrobe, it is important to buy the best quality that you can afford. In the long run, well-made, classic pieces are timeless and may even be good enough to pass on to the next generation. The second important thing is care. If you want your pieces to last a lifetime, you need to care for them. Always follow the manufacturer’s suggestions for cleaning your garments and take the time to hang them on quality hangers.

LBD

The little black dress, made popular by Coco Chanel, has been a staple wardrobe item for generations. Keep it simple. This is not the time to go trendy. If you want to go trendy, go inexpensive and let it die its natural death next season when it is out of style. For your basic dress, thinking A-line and sleeveless is always a good option for those with toned arms like Mrs. Obama. Keep it knee length or above and use accessories to make it trendy.

Good fitting pair of jeans

Of all the items in a basic women’s wardrobe, jeans are the most elusive. Most women have many pairs; fewer have ones that fit well and look great and that they love. It is a time-consuming process to find jeans that look good and feel good. Color is also important. When in doubt, go darker instead of lighter with the wash.

Pencil skirt

The pencil skirt looks good on just about every woman and is very figure flattering. It can be dressed up or down and is appropriate for a day at the office or a night on the town. Again, fit is important and there should not be any bunching going on.

White button-down shirt

For most people, this will be a cotton button-down shirt, but if you have a real aversion to ironing, then it is important to get a shirt with stretch that doesn’t need a whole lot of ironing. This is one item that is really not for the long haul because it is near impossible -- no matter how well you care for your white button down shirt -- to keep it gleaming white for years. Like a white tee shirt, get a new one every year or so.

Jacket

This piece offers the most variety. This year, leather is very hot and a leather jacket is almost always a wise investment. A denim jacket is another popular choice, especially if you have a casual lifestyle. A woolen jacket is a staple that will be used over and over again. So choose a style that is not too trendy and a color that will mix and match well and find that jacket or your dreams.

As all women know, these are just the basics -- there is so much more. Trousers, a great pair of heels, a trench coat, a black turtle neck and all those wonderful accessories are really necessary for most women’s wardrobe. Be stylish, shop within your budget and get things that work together and soon you will have an amazing wardrobe that can take you anywhere at any time.

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