Wardrobe staples are basic items you can wear from one year to the next without them going out of style. And if you buy good quality items, they will last from year to year. “Essentials like these serve as the foundation to have in your closet and are the building blocks to create the perfect wardrobe”, according to Ann Taylor Style Director Andrew Taylor. “Once you have these essentials in your wardrobe, you can create different looks and incorporate other styles from your wardrobe to suit the occasion,” he adds.
I had not been to a JC Penney store since they started their new campaign of lowering prices and having less sales and coupons but I visited a store today and was amazed at just how great the prices were for great quality clothing. I had read an article that said their sales were down since starting their new campaign in which they say some of it’s in part because women actually like using coupons. I don’t know about the average woman, but I prefer lower prices without using coupons. (Some suggest that women will shop more if they have a coupon, even if the price is higher, because they “feel” like they’re getting a bargain, not me…bottom line, I want the lowest price and I love not having to use coupons!)
Regardless of where you shop, here’s ten wardrobe staples you might consider adding to your closet if you don’t already own them. Of course, these are only suggestions because not every woman lives the same lifestyle but these are pretty basic and at the prices I found at JC Penney, a fairly inexpensive investment. I seriously did not go in to sticker shock like I normally do when I enter a store that’s not thrift!
1. Black Pants –
A good pair of basic black pants can pretty much go anywhere for any occasion. They can be dressed up with a sexy or elegant blouse with heels, they can be worn to work or throw on a t-shirt and add some flats and you have a great casual outfit that works in warm weather. And then of course in the colder months, you can pair them with sweaters and layers. Straight legs are slenderizing and with a length like in the example below, can easily be worn with heels or flats. If this style doesn’t suit you, they have a huge selection of black Worthington pants ranging in sizes from petite to tall to curvy in prices from $14.00 to $30.00.
2. Basic Black Skirt –
Just like black pants, a basic black skirt can take you anywhere from work to play to a night out. When you stick with neutral colors for your bottom-half staples, you can easily update your look with trendy colors and patterns in tops, jackets and scarves. I found good quality skirts ranging from $13 (not a sale price but an everyday price) to $27 in different lengths and sizes that would fit any body shape. A length that actually works well for most women is one that touches the top of your knees.
3. Layering Tank top –
Basic tank top colors like white, black and grey can be worn with anything and at prices like these, you can afford to add colors that are hot this season like bold jewel tones. You can also find the right neckline for your body with scoop, square or V neck tanks. Wear it out under a semi-sheer blouse or sweater, wear alone or layered with another tank, under a blazer, with shorts, skirts, pants…
4. Blazer Jacket –
A structured blazer can class up just about anything, so throw it over a flirty blouse or a tee paired with jeans. Love this bold, collarless style…..the store also sells a brand called XOXO that’s a one button basic blazer for $ 15.00. Blazers come in so many different lengths that it’s easy to find one that works best for your shape.
5. The Perfect Jean –
The perfect pair of jeans will never go out of style. This Yahoo article, “10 wardrobe staples every woman should own” uses a pair of skinny fit jeans that hugs the ankles by Citizens of Humanity for $185 as their example of the “perfect jean” but not everyone can really wear this style. Sometimes you just have to try on a lot of different styles to find the one that fits you perfect and showcases your assets. But I do agree with them that whatever style you choose, the dark wash is season-less and can be worn dressed up or down. And once you find that “perfect fit”, why not buy a pair in the dark wash and one in a lighter hue. *Stick with plain, un-embellished pockets for a cleaner, more versatile look.
6. White Pants –
Did you hear? You CAN wear white after Labor Day….if it’s the right texture and material. These pants are perfect for wearing year-round and figure-flattering for athletic and curvy physiques alike. JC Penney recommends a modern fit that sits just below the waist. This particular style was also voted “People Style Watch Editors’ Handpicked Favorite”….
7. Lightweight Cardigan –
A cardigan is perfect to wear alone or layered with a favorite piece. Again, very versatile because it can be worn with anything! Pick a neutral tone you can add color to with accessories or choose a shade that flatters your skin tones.
8. Little Black Dress (LBD) –
I love little black dresses that are simple and classic looking like this Nine & Co. one. And at $35.00, it’s a great price. When you choose a dress like this, without rhinestones, ruffles or other embellishments, you can create lots of different looks that you can wear year after year and make it look new. I’m always looking for clothes that are versatile and can be worn in more than one way and this dress is exactly that. This is perfect for a cocktail party or event when you add heels and dressy accessories but it’s tailored enough that you can throw a cardigan or blazer over it and wear it to the office. This also would look fashionable with tights and boots or flats and a sweater…..perfect for any occasion and it won’t break the bank.
9. Tote Bag –
According to Marie Kojitani, Zappos.com style editor, “A large tote can hold everything for work, while still being fashionable and functional.” Buy a tote bag with a structured style that holds its shape for years of use. I found lots of cute totes at JC Penney averaging in prices from $35.00 to $50.00 but this one only cost TEN DOLLARS! I have paid that much for a used purse at the thrift stores! This is a great deal!
10. Ballet Flats –
A pair of simple ballet flats can take you from the office to an evening out (when you don’t feel like wearing heels). Find a pair that are comfortable yet feminine. This pair of ballet flats were also a People Style Watch Editors Handpicked Favorite.
Honorable Mention
And one item that wasn’t on this list that I think every woman should have in her closet is a pair of basic black pumps in whatever heel height that works for you. Need something to wear with that little black dress for dressy occasions!