I was looking in my closet this morning for something to wear and realized I'm so tired of everything I own. Everything looks worn or unsuitable for the unstable weather in SF. I'd like some good basics to mix and match outfits. I also need clothes that won't leave me feeling too cold or hot.I think we've all had a few of those "tired closet" moments. It's days like that where having a good foundation of basic pieces ready to mix with trendy items is so key. Here's my list of absolute must-have wardrobe pieces for any working girl:
I'm in the process of launching my own Interior Decorating business and ultimately need outfits that I'm going to feel confident in when networking and working with clients/vendors.

Work Dress - A wrap or shirt dress with sleeves is so versatile. I have one in a dark denim fabric that I wear all the time. I like a neutral color dress that you can play up with a bright cami and accessories.
Cashmere Sweaters - In as many colors and cuts as possible.
White Trousers - Wear them with bright tops in summer and brown cable knit sweaters in fall. Find a pair in a thick, flattering fabric.
Black Pencil Skirt - Works for the office, happy hour and the theater.
Trouser Jeans - A perfect casual office piece that can be dressed up or down.
White Blouse - Find one that is super flattering on your figure. This ruffled pick is great for a smaller chest like mine.
Trench Coat - Ideal all year round.
Black Pumps - A must have for dresses and trousers.
Brown Boots - Perfect for colder days with a skirt or under jeans.
Blazer - Have a couple in different fabrics and colors. You need them all year long in foggy San Francisco.
Tights - Nude fishnets lend a little extra warmth to summer skirts and dresses. Opaque tights are a must have for winter.
How many of these basics are in your closet right now? What am I missing from your list of must-have's?
15 comments:
Emily, I love this! Thank you! I've got a lot of shopping a head of me.
I feel like I need to start from scratch the onlt thing I think that I have off the list is the white shirt. I think you should add a black or charcoal pant to the list.
Yeah, a basic black or charcoal trouser is good to add. I just seem to hate all my pants along those lines lately, must be biased :)
I think one great patterned shirt that makes you smile each time you think of wearing it. Yes, a pattern can be a basic if it's extremely flattering.
I would like them all please.
You must have read my mind - I had just ordered that pencil skirt from Banana Republic a few days ago :) I had this vision of myself standing in front of an MBA class teaching in that skirt. Hopefully, it'll look as fun-yet-authoritative on me when it arrives!
I'm loving the shirtdress, too. Heck, I'll take two of each of those clothes.
Funny, I have the basic staple pants but don't really like how they fit. I also really like to wear skirts because they make me feel more like a woman.
The perfect sheath, preferably black or charcoal.kj
A cute, bright umbrella as well as a durable, waterproof tote in the most luxurious fabric you can afford. But that's coming from Dublin. ;)
Thanks Ladies, you all have great ideas!! I was thinking I also need a (staple) handbag or purse.
I think this is one of the most helpful Miss Emily posts ever. I think that I would like to do new basics in a few months for my birthday and these are fabulous suggestions! Thank you! :)
Calie -- Theory (brand) pants are popular for their fit, but Nordstrom makes a pair in their Semantics line that is cut identically. Check those out and see what you think.
The only think I would add is a pair of brown/khaki/olive/earth toned pants. (mine are houndstooth wool and I LOVE them in winter)
I like your list. I better ask for a new work wardrobe for Christmas. Anyway, noticed you're in SF...I'm in NY and I have to say so far the past 60 days the weather has been UNSTABLE and UNPREDICTABLE in NY so having what you own wold be ideal.
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