How To- Buy Better Wardrobe Basics

So doll you’ve purged the pathetics from your wardrobe and you’ve got your style notebook in hand ready to storm the gates of euphoria (otherwise known as the savvy department of your local boutique or mall) but what do you start with? Well there’s loads to consider fashion addicts- First off: fit is everything, many a perfectly good sheath has been frightfully mangled due to a too tight underarm or waistline…ditto for the power suit with baggy sleeves and a death grip inseam. Having a good tailor is essential but never buy ill-fitting garments hoping that a needle and thread will perform miracles. If you are yearning for an A-list closet there are a few items that you should posses – but remember you are looking for “your” basics, not everyone else’s so seek out the pieces that fit your recently uncovered style profile.

Lingerie – this category may seem elementary but no great outfit ever benefited from an ill fitting bra, panty lines or waistband seams… in fact the wrong foundations can scream scandal under a perfectly body swathing dress. If there is any question in your mind about sizing make an appointment with a fit specialist before you dole out the dollars. Be sure to stock up on all varieties of seamless lingerie including strapless, t-shirt and racerback bras, thongs, french cuts and body shapers.

Day Dresses – It sounds so retro chic but a good fitting dress or two for office or daytime meetings and luncheons is an absolute necessity. A good sleeveless fitted sheath in a wool jersey or cotton blend will work well in summer then, it can be topped with a cardigan or jacket for fall and winter. A wrap dress is also a great option for nearly any body type (and the very thing that made Diane Von Furstenburg a household name) .

Perfect Pants – A proper fitting pair of flat front straight leg pants will be your go-to savior again and again. Be sure to keep the hem long enough to wear with your everyday heels, short hems = short looking legs. I happen to love black but depending on your own signature tan, gray or even red may be the right shade for you.

A Fitted Jacket or Cardigan – Never underestimate the sexiness of so called “office” pieces like these. You can throw on a pair of jeans and heels or boots and be set for your next outing in a flash. Be sure that the shoulders and back fit perfectly… don’t go by the sleeve length as sleeves can be shortened easily. This season it’s all about belting so don’t buy anything too bulky (which also adds lbs.)

The Right Jeans – Never has there been a more tantalizing time for denim, with over a zillion companies making every cut imaginable there’s no excuse to wear anything but the right fit.. Unless you are super slight, skinny jeans aren’t always easy to pull off so go for a slim straight leg or a boot cut. Keep the length long for the leanest and sexiest look and for goodness sakes don’t dwell on the derriere at the expense of the perfect waist – muffin tops only belong on pastries love buckets.

Stay tuned for the final five wardrobe- building must have in tomorrows post!