Keep style in your closet with classic must-haves
By Kari Zuzack
Issue date: 2/5/10 Section: Focus
The transition between winter and spring is about to begin. In the fashion world, that is. In the western Pennsylvanian, we might still have months of frosty temperatures left to endure. But you never know-it's a mystery.
In case the weather does suddenly decide to grant us some sunny days, it's time to gear up your wardrobe. Many people apply the seasonal idea of "spring cleaning" to their closets. If you happen to be one of these people, there are a few items that should be in your wardrobe if they aren't there already. If you don't really care about evaluating everything in your closet, then evaluate enough to make sure you have these garments. They'll serve you well.
The first item is a trench coat. There is an enormous amount of options and a huge range of prices, so you'll definitely be able to find a trench that suits your style. Obviously, the traditional long khaki-colored version is the most classic design. It'll remain an active part of your wardrobe for much longer than a fluorescent pink version, for example. Banana Republic carries several options in very nice neutral colors. But they tend to be a bit expensive. For more affordable options, H&M and Forever 21 always have some version of a trench.
The next piece is a white button-down blouse. Again, the version that won't go out of style is the straightforward, kind-of-plain one. But if you keep everything on the shirt white, you can find options that are a bit more interesting while still being classic. Look for ruffles, batwing sleeves and other design details that fit your aesthetic.
And, of course, there's the black dress. It doesn't have to be little, though. Find a style that you like and stick with it. Preferably try to find one that doesn't have any type of embellishments attached to it. You can always add that yourself with jewelry or a belt. This dress will carry you through pretty much any occasion-it just depends on how you style it. You can dress it down by pairing it with flats and a casual scarf. If the occasion demands it, you can also dress it up with statement jewelry and heels. Whatever style you choose, just make sure that it's comfortable and you can dance in it, because many occasions that call for a black dress also involve dancing.
In case the weather does suddenly decide to grant us some sunny days, it's time to gear up your wardrobe. Many people apply the seasonal idea of "spring cleaning" to their closets. If you happen to be one of these people, there are a few items that should be in your wardrobe if they aren't there already. If you don't really care about evaluating everything in your closet, then evaluate enough to make sure you have these garments. They'll serve you well.
The first item is a trench coat. There is an enormous amount of options and a huge range of prices, so you'll definitely be able to find a trench that suits your style. Obviously, the traditional long khaki-colored version is the most classic design. It'll remain an active part of your wardrobe for much longer than a fluorescent pink version, for example. Banana Republic carries several options in very nice neutral colors. But they tend to be a bit expensive. For more affordable options, H&M and Forever 21 always have some version of a trench.
The next piece is a white button-down blouse. Again, the version that won't go out of style is the straightforward, kind-of-plain one. But if you keep everything on the shirt white, you can find options that are a bit more interesting while still being classic. Look for ruffles, batwing sleeves and other design details that fit your aesthetic.
And, of course, there's the black dress. It doesn't have to be little, though. Find a style that you like and stick with it. Preferably try to find one that doesn't have any type of embellishments attached to it. You can always add that yourself with jewelry or a belt. This dress will carry you through pretty much any occasion-it just depends on how you style it. You can dress it down by pairing it with flats and a casual scarf. If the occasion demands it, you can also dress it up with statement jewelry and heels. Whatever style you choose, just make sure that it's comfortable and you can dance in it, because many occasions that call for a black dress also involve dancing.
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