Basic Wardrobe Checklist

I received a great question this week. "Hello! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your site. It is classically fashionable for mature women. I was wondering if you have a "basic wardrobe checklist" for beginners. I love what I see but am still overwhelmed as to where to begin. Thanks so much!" Vicki S.

The answer is unique to every woman, but I will share some tips with you today. 

Your core wardrobe will be determined by your lifestyle, where you live, and what looks good on your body.

As always, I will use myself as an example.

My core wardrobe includes white jeans, classic blue jeans, black pants, tank tops in white, gray, and black, as well as red and blue tunics. A black blazer, a white blazer, and a leather jacket round out my clothing necessities. 

A nude pair of shoes, a strappy black pair, and a pair of black boots are the basic footwear options for me. Add a touch of animal print in a small clutch and a great looking gray bag, and some square dark sunglasses and I could travel through Europe for the next month and always look appropriate. 

These colors, shapes, and textures work for my body shape and my personal comfort level. All the pieces work together and can be combined to create a look appropriate for anything from a walk in the park to an evening on the town.

Accessories add personality and flair. I enjoy long cardigans and consider them an accessory since they can be tied around your shoulders or draped across them if you need them later. You can always wear them with a tank and jeans to finish your look in style.

The secret to being able to walk into your closet and pull out two or three great pieces and being ready to go anywhere in five minutes is knowing what works for you. Appropriate for the weather and or the event is your next consideration.

Classic doesn't have to be boring.

My lifestyle is casual, with a few special functions each week. So these cornerstones of my wardrobe get a lot of wear.

If my work life were more structured, there might be dresses and skirts in my wardrobe. I do not enjoy wearing them, so I rarely buy a dress.

I hope these tips have been helpful in your efforts to build a workable wardrobe for your lifestyle.