Define Basics: What Do You Really Need?

The "basics" are essential to a versatile, classy, and loveable wardrobe. And this is where I have trouble. When I go shopping, I'm easily distracted by something sparkly and I forget that what I really need is a pair of black flats.

I found this list of twelve must have basics, the bare essentials every woman needs in her wardrobe. What's your score?

Essential Wardrobe Staples

1. Little black dress (LBD)
2. A black suit (blazer and pants)
3. White button down shirt
4. Knee length black skirt
5. Classic trench coat
6. Dark denim jeans
7. Black pumps
8. Black flats
9. Two cardigan sweaters, one black and one white
10. Black leather bag
11. Set of pearls
12. Diamond (or small cubic zirconium) studs

Classic black dress: Midnight Garden from Shabbyapple.com

I got 7 and a half out of twelve, so almost 60%. Hmmm. How did you do?

When picking your basics, keep some of the other principles we've talked about in mind. For instance, if button up shirts aren't flattering on you, look for an alternative, like the white wrap shirt below. Try googling "White wrap shirt" and all sorts of options will come up.

While some lists might include a pencil skirt as a must have basic, if you know they make your hips look too big, find a black A-line skirt or a pencil skirt with a little flair at the bottom.

Adelaide and All Ruffled from Shabby Apple.

More Info

In Pictures: Eight Essential Items for a Perfect Wardrobe from Forbes Magazine. This is a fun slideshow that follows very closely the items I've listed above, along with several suggestions for picking each item and versatile ways to wear them.
Wardrobe Basics, How to Wear 8 Pieces 30 Different Ways from Good Housekeeping Magazine. This goes beyond your 12 essentials list and shows you how to mix and match eight classic pieces to make thirty outfits. Now, that's a versatile wardrobe!

What are your wardrobe basics, your go-to items? If you could add something to the essentials list, what would it be?

P.S. Don't forget to enter the giveaway! (click the cupcake button on the sidebar to go there).My commenting system had some issues on that post, but with help from technical support, I found out what happened. I have all of your comments that were left with Intense Debate, so if you already entered, don't worry! You're still entered.

P.P.S. Is anyone trying the homework for this week ? Or catching up on last week? How is it going?

P.P.P.S. This is technically the LAST Fashion 101 post. Having said that, I will probably do a weekend reading post with some good resources for finding more fashion advice, and now and then, I might pop in another fashion post if I feel like it. Has this series been helpful? Did you learn anything?

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Labels: Basics, Fashion, Fashion 101, Shopping, style, Wardrobe Essentials