Happy Fashion Friday!
Two of my all time favorite fashion icons are Jackie O. and Audrey Hepburn. Their classic, effortlessly chic style, embodied an elegance that made bold statements, yet were so simple.
Both Audrey & Jackie (I’ll use first names and pretend as if they were my girlfriends) have inspired a great deal of my wardrobe, especially when it comes to work attire.
Here is a list of my four all-time favorite pieces, which I think every woman should have in her closet.
1. Little Black Dress
With so many styles to choose from, the “LBD” can take you from work to a night out on the town in a flash. Choose a style that suits your body best; don’t always go by what the latest style or cut is; I often find that the “hot trends” don’t look as good on me as the classics do.
A Fun Pick:
Express Rouched Mesh Strap Dress
2. White Button-Up Shirt
Nothing says “classic” like a crisp, white, button-up shirt. Opt for one with stretch, form-fitting cotton, to give you a clean, streamlined look. Make sure to choose one that fits well — you don’t want a shirt with buttons that look like they’re ready to pop off and go flying across the room. Choose your sleeve length (i.e., long, short, sleeveless) depending on the season.
A Top Pick:
Express Essential Stretch Long-Sleeved Shirt
3. Black Pencil Skirt
This is going to show off that smokin’ bod you have, so make sure to look for one with a lining (to reduce cling), and made, in part, of spandex. Dress is up or down as much as you want with shoes & accessories, and you’re ready to go for a casual dinner date or a formal work event.
A Top Pick:
Express High Waist Buckle Back Pencil Skirt
4. Trenchcoat
I must admit: it’s hard for me sometimes to put aside my comfy North Face fleece in the colder months. But, there are definitely occasions where the fleece just isn’t fitting. For those times, a trenchcoat is often a perfect choice. A well-tailored trench will instantly amp the sophisitication of your look; go with neutral colors (black, tan, brown) for more every-day use, or opt for a fun, bright red or purple to add a little pizazz to your overall outfit.
A Top Pick (which I also own):
Old Navy Belted Waist Trenchcoat
Have I missed anything?
Fashion Question for Today:
Tell me what wardrobe classic YOU can’t live without, and where you got it! :)
Liza says
i LOVE your Fashion Friday posts!
I can’t live without CARDIGANS! Especially at work because my office is freezing during the summer, so I throw them on over my dressses. I have solid color cardigans that I pair with printed dresses, and printed/patterned cardigans that I wear with my solid colored dresses! My favorites are from Forever 21, but I also have a luxurious cashmere one from Club Monaco (I used to work there so I had an employee discount)! Have a fabulous weekend!
Courtney says
Thank You! I’m so glad you like them :)
Cardigans are definitely a closet staple of mine too!
Wendy Irene says
Saw your comment on my friend Tina’s blog CNC today and loved what you said, so I had to check out your blog – love the name! Love what I see – keep smiling! For me I can’t live without my black cardigan that goes with almost everything. Have a good weekend!
amy says
I can’t live w/o tanks. I love to layer. They even look cute layering them over each other with a long necklace, jean shorts and heels for a get together. I get mine at buckle(my fav store) or even Old navy
Kelly says
I TOTALLY agree on the little black dress…you definitely need one because it is perfect for any and all occasions!
TheKetchupDiaries says
OMG – we’re totally the same! I’m OBSESSED with Jackie O!!!!!! And, I agree with all of your choices. Fab!
cardiopizza says
I love having a great cocktail dress on hand for special occasions.
I also love a great pair of jeans, black pumps, and a nice fitting blazer :)
jqlee says
i NEED a pair of ripped jeans and white t. that’s pretty much what i wear.
Shanna, like Banana says
Ditto on the last couple of comments — a pair of skinny jeans look fab with that white shirt and trench.
BUT what you really need is a great pair of nude pumps, black knee high boots, and sexy strappy sandals ;)
Okay so there’s a lot I can’t live without!
Courtney says
YES, good call!! :)
Lele says
I got my first LBD this December. Major life moment. I actually graduated from college (early) the same month, but the LBD felt like a bigger deal!
Courtney says
The LBD is definitely a big deal! Congrats on both the graduation and the purchase! :)