At My Red Glasses, we keep searching for ways to offer our help to so many friends in need. In a time where so many of our fellow Houstonians (and elsewhere) are having to start from scratch with rebuilding their wardrobe, due to water damage from Hurricane Harvey, we thought it would help to put together our suggestions on how to get your wardrobe in order, starting with the most important closet basics. This is the first in a series of stories on how to best begin to put it all together and begin the difficult and often overwhelming task of starting over. We will be following with more areas that we feel you may need some guidance in to help you through it all!
When it comes to building or, unfortunately, rebuilding your wardrobe with replacements, you should begin by first taking an inventory of what you currently have. From there you should begin your edit or replacement, keeping in mind that we have all learned from this loss of so much, that we can get by on less than we ever felt possible
Julie here today, and it’s always a good time to take a good, hard look through your closet and get rid of (i.e. donate) what is just taking up space, or something that you could no longer wear and think about what it is you really need.
That brings me to the 14 closet basics that’ll be the perfect foundation to your wardrobe.
14 Closet Basics
White Button Front Shirt: A white button front shirt is a classic piece you can wear to the office or to brunch with friends. It can be dressed up and down, and you can add layers underneath and on top, when it’s chilly. It’s become quite a fashion trend this season so the offering out there is quite extensive and actually a variety of this basic would be great.
Denim (two styles): Of course, denim is necessary in building a wardrobe. If possible, get two different styles – a skinny leg and a more relaxed fit. It goes without saying that denim goes with anything and everything, year-round, dressed up or down, and every which way. Don’t forget that another piece of denim that you can always use is a casual denim jacket.
Black Leather Jacket: When it starts to get chilly, I immediately reach for my leather jacket. In fact, it could be one of my very favorite pieces in my entire wardrobe. A leather jacket provides an instant “cool” factor as well as fulfill a need, to any look, and it can go with pretty much anything in your wardrobe….dresses, skirts or jeans for sure!
Black or Navy Blazer: The beauty of a basic blazer is that it is, of course, functional, in the sense that it can add a little extra warmth to your outfit, but it’s also a truly timeless piece that goes from work to weekend. If you have a neutral blazer then for a little pop in your wardrobe try adding a bold RED blazer to your closet must-haves and have some fun!
Little Black Dress: A little black dress will come in handy countless times in your life, so investing in at least one that you feel great in is so important. Don’t underestimate the power of an LBD!
Black Pants: A pair of black pants is great for when you don’t want to wear denim, and they’ll go with everything and anything. Like your LBD, invest in a pair you feel great in, that you’ll reach for time and time again.
Black or Nude Pumps: Now, they don’t necessarily have to be black or nude, but we do recommend a pair of neutral colored pumps that you’ll wear to work, as well as out and about. Black pumps could quite possibly be the definition of timeless.
A Pair of Flats: On the topic of shoes, it’s wise to also get a great pair of flats for the days you just don’t want to wear heels. Again, going for a neutral color will be best, because you want your pieces to be as versatile as possible. If you want to add a little fun in your wardrobe, try a ‘novelty’ flat that can add color, print or metallic.
White Tee Shirt: While you might not immediately think of a white tee shirt as a closet essential, it truly is. Whether you’re wearing it underneath something (leather jacket, blazer…) or on its own with a pair of relaxed denim, it’s an affordable piece you’ll wear constantly. After you’ve bought your white one or two, why not add a little fun and buy one of the many ‘statement’ tees that have a fun slogan, a band name, logo or makes a statement. Try it, it can give you a lift and make you smile on an otherwise bleak day.
Sturdy Neutral Color Handbag: Don’t forget about accessories. (we’ll be giving you much more on building your accessories wardrobe back up in our next ‘replacement series’. Find a sturdy handbag (ideally in a neutral color because, again, versatility is important!) that you can bring to the office and out running errands on the weekend.
Sneakers: Whether you’re an active person or not, sneakers are a biggie! Of course, you’ll wear them to work out, but, as you know, a cool pair of kicks have really become a fashion staple the past couple years. So, get a pair that you love and wear them with anything you like….with street apparel, it gives you just enough of an edge….plus some comfort also.
Cocktail Dress: You never know when you’ll need a nicer dress, and even for the times you do know in advance you’ll need one, it’s nice to have one at the ready. Again, as for most of these closet essentials, opting for black (or another neutral color) will ensure the timelessness of the piece.
Booties: In terms of footwear, another basic you’ll always want to have on hand (or in your closet) is a pair of booties. Reason being is you can wear them any time of year. Really! I wear mine with dresses in the summer and, of course, with pants in the fall and winter.
Sweater: While Houston doesn’t necessarily call for sweater weather all too often, it’s important to have one you love in your wardrobe. Because even on the hottest of days, it can be freezing inside, and on the cold days, you’ll want to be able to grab one easily. Go for one that is versatile so you can wear it often.
Below you’ll find some of our favorite closet basics you can shop right here right now! Let us know in the comments below what your closet basics needs are. Would love to hear.
Feature image courtesy of Apartment Therapy
Need some personal assistance? We’re here to help you. Please contact one of us below if you would like one-on-one shopping expertise and guidance in beginning to make your purchases…
Roz Pactor Wardrobe Consulting Roz@myredglasses.com
Stacy Swift Neiman Marcus Stacey_Swift@neimanmarcus.com
Shelley Ludwig Tootsies Shelley@tootsies.com
Jennifer Cunningham Cotton Club Collection Jennifer@cottonclubtx.com
John Mcguire Cotton Club Collection John@cottonclubtx.com