Lately I have been getting numerous e-mails asking me how to shop on a limited budget – and what items are essential to have in our wardrobes. Nobody wants to waste money on trendy items that will barely make it through one season which is why I want to show you the 10 basic essentials you should have in your wardrobe. Trends come and go – but if we have these classic pieces in our closets, we will never have ‘nothing to wear.’ These pieces are the backbone of your wardrobe and will provide you with a foundation to build upon. The trick to creating your individual style is to accent these pieces with unique accessories that represent your personality.First impressions can make a difference in today’s world and your clothing tells a story about yourself and where you are going. First, you have to determine what your own story is and then present an image that makes you feel confident. Having these basics in your closet will help you on your way!

1 – The White Shirt

Nothing says sophisticated and polished like the basic white shirt. Regardless of your size, shape or proportions, this piece will always make a lasting impression. Add some colorful beads around your neck or a scarf for a bit of fun!

You can find a great selection on www.BrooksBrothers.com. This is the Brooks Brother ‘Miracle Non-Iron Shirt.’ It comes in tailored, fitted, semi-fitted or classic styles!

2 – A Great Bag

A fabulous bag is something that everyone should invest in. This is an essential splurge since it is the one piece we use daily. Handbags are the finishing touch to a fantastic outfit, and will create a polished look even when we don’t feel polished. You should have at least one remarkable leather bag that makes a powerful statement.

Find this fabulous tote at www.dillards.com. B. Makowsky “Lisbon” tote.

3 – Dark Jeans

One pair of dark wash jeans without any whiskers or faded spots is a must. Denim is extremely versatile – you can dress it up for date night or be casual for a day of errands. Stay away from the faded blue colors, they aren’t always ‘in,’ and do not fit for most occasions after dark!

Citizens of Humanity ‘Amber High Rise’ Bootcut Stretch Jeans; www.Nordstrom.com.

 4 – A Trench Coat

A trench coat is a piece we should not live without. It embodies effortless chic and is always a classy quick fix to any outfit. No matter what you have on underneath, you will always look pulled together and timeless.

This classic trench coat can be found at www.BananaRepublic.com.

 5 – Black Pants

Black pants are always in style and can be one of the most versatile pieces in our closets. You can wear them to work, on a date, to a concert, the symphony and more!

You can find these fabulous black pants at www.SaksFifthAvenue.com.

 6 – A Great Bra

A great bra (and the right underwear) is truly the foundation to a fantastic wardrobe. If your undergarments do not fit you properly, your clothing will not fall beautifully regardless of how expensive or fantastic it actually is. Being supported properly underneath immediately improves your posture and helps clothing to accent the right curves. Remember, bra back bulge or panty lines can make even the most fabulous outfit look awful.

Find these styles at www.unbelievabra.com. Quote from the website, “The Unbelievabra body shaper eliminates Bra Back Fat and yields a smooth appearance while providing superior shaping. Our luxurious fabric and “no closure” design, evenly distributes the breast support so that back fat does not appear as you have with traditional bras.”

7 – The Day Dress

The perfect pair would be a beautiful day dress for the summer months and then one for the wintry months that you can wear with boots or tights. On a hot day, there is nothing easier than throwing on a cute summer dress with sandals to make us feel pretty.

All of the dresses above can be found at www.Dillards.com.

8 – Sunglasses

A perfect pair of sunglasses is the same idea as the handbag since it is something that we can wear almost every day. As women, we want to feel special and beautiful – sunglasses are the one item that can make us feel (and look) gorgeous even when we don’t have an ounce of makeup on…Sunglasses can even make our workout outfits look chic!

 These styles can be found at www.SunglassHut.com

9 – A Piece of “Statement Making” Jewelry

I typically suggest a strand of pearls or pearl earrings. Depending on your personality, you can choose a pair of diamond studs (or cubic zirconia). Either way, you will look like you have it together when you pop these on!

Lauren Ralph Lauren Cubic Zirconia Stud Earring Collection, $32.00 – 36.00; www.Macys.com

 14k Gold Freshwater Pearl Stud Earrings, $85.00 – 140.00; www.Macys.com

10 – The Little Black Dress

Last but not least, the LBD is a must-have in every woman’s closet. Find one that you can mix and match for a variety of occasions. Make sure it hits right above the knee.

Find this fantastic dress at www.NicoleMiller.com.
Now that you have these 10 pieces in your closet you have everything you need for any occasion. Just throw on your favorite accessories and you’re ready to go!