15 Wardrobe Essentials That Every Women Needs
When it comes to creating a wardrobe that you love, the secret trick is to have wardrobe basics. You should dedicate a large percentage of your closet to basics. Basics are the foundation for creating amazing outfits. That’s why it’s so important to have the tools you need to build the looks you deserve, and I’m here to help you figure out what you need. This isn’t a complete list of the basics you should have in your closet. Think of this as more of the quick start items. The 15 things to get you up and running if you will. So, if I were starting my closet right now, these are the wardrobe basics that I would buy.
*Disclaimer: Some of my clothes are thrifted. I’ve listed dupes (or similar items) for the thrifted items to help you find a clothing piece with a similar look. I’ve labeled these dupe items as “dupe for the original” underneath the picture of the item. Please note that I have not tried duped (similar) items. I am only providing this item to help you build a similar outfit to mine. Please do your research on item before purchasing.
White t-shirt
A plain white t-shirt will always be the first suggestion that I have when it comes to basics. There is so much that you can do with a white t-shirt. You can dress a white t-shirt up or down to create an amazing outfit. I love to have crew neck and v-neck shirts in my wardrobe. Both give you a very different look to your outfit. If you’re looking for affordable options, Old Navy and Target both have exceptional quality and sell different cuts. If you want to amp up your wardrobe, throw in a black and gray one as well. With white, black, and gray, you have all the colors and options you need to when creating outfits.
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White button down
When most people think of white button-down shirts, they automatically think of business casual, but white button-down shirts can do so much more than get you ready for a meeting. I love to wear my white button-down shirts over dresses and as bathing suit covers. They pair great with shorts and make a classic go-to outfit when put with jeans. I love to get my white button-down shirts from the men’s section of thrift stores. Thrifting gives you a way to find good quality white button-down shirts at a great price. Don’t count out the white button-down shirt. There are so many adorable looks you can create with this timeless piece.
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Cami Top or tank top
Satin camis or tanks are excellent basic tops to have on hand. Both can be worn alone, or used for layering. I like to buy these tops in neutral colors like white, black, tan, or gray. I’ve found some nice fitting satin camis on amazon. As for tank tops, try Target’s A New Day line. I have their tanks in so many colors and I love them all. Camis and tank tops are excellent as standalone pieces or layering pieces in any wardrobe.
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Bodysuit
Bodysuits are another perfect addition to your wardrobe when looking for strong layering pieces or just a minimal, fitted top. You can layer bodysuits with sweaters, jackets, and so much more. I prefer neutral colors when buying basics, but I have a few colorful bodysuits that work great as tops or additional layers. If you’re looking for bodysuits, Old Navy has some of the most comfortable bodysuits that also come in extended sizes and colors.
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Statement Blouse
Every wardrobe needs a good statement blouse. Whether you’re going with something colorful and patterned or you’re sticking to a neutral color but with lots of flair. Having a statement blouse in your collection gives you room to add a little drama or interest to a simple skirt or pair of jeans.
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Sweater
Having a good pull over sweater always comes in clutch. I prefer v-neck knit sweaters, but the type of sweater really comes down to your preference. Whatever style or color you choose, a good sweater always comes in handy for winter outfit building.
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Cardigan
Much like the sweater, a good cardigan is also a must have in my closet during the fall and winter. Again, the style and color are up to you. However, a good neutral colored cardigan can act as a workhorse throughout your closet. Cardigans are a great cold weather piece that really adds a lot to your outfit.
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Leather Jacket
A leather jacket is really a timeless piece in your wardrobe. The versatility of a leather jacket is unmatched. I love to add a leather jacket to simple outfits to add a little character and edge. You can pair a leather jacket with dresses, jeans, joggers, and other leather pieces. The possibilities are endless. As far as the color, that’s really up to you. I prefer black, but they come in an array of colors. A good leather jacket is a versatile piece to add to your wardrobe.
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Denim Jacket
A denim jacket is really a person by person basic. Some feel they’re not needed. Personally, I love having a good denim jacket in my wardrobe. I have two denim jackets in my wardrobe. One that is more fitted and cropped, and another that is oversized. My oversized denim jacket gets the most use. I pair it with dresses, leggings, and joggers. My favorite way to wear my oversized denim jacket is to pair it with a monochromatic outfit like all black. A denim jacket isn’t a solid must-have on the basics list, but it is a highly suggested must have that I’m sure will work in your wardrobe.
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Blazer
Blazers aren’t just for the workplace. Much like the leather jacket, there is so much you can do with a blazer. I have blazers in different colors and sizes, and all of them provide a unique look to every outfit. If you’re just getting started building your closet, I suggest getting a black blazer just to see if you like it. I highly suggest hitting the the men’s section of the thrift store for blazers. This will give you a nice oversized look and you won’t have to pay a fortune for the blazer.
This next section is for those that love skirts and dresses. Here are some that I feel you should have in your wardrobe.
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Black dress
If you’re into dresses, then having a little black dress is a must have for your closet. The LBD comes in handy whenever you need something nice to wear. It’s going to help you cut down on your occasion shopping. Just put on your dress, some nice shoes, and you're ready.
The black dress is a classic piece and can be dressed up for all your going out needs. The type of Black dress really depends on you. I have a conservative one and a sexy one. Invest in a nice black dress that makes you feel good.
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SIMILAR TO THE ONE I’M WEARING
SIMILAR TO THE ONE I’M WEARING
Skirt
I have an array of colorful dresses and skirts in my closet, but having a simple solid colored skirt is something every dress and skirt lovers’ closet needs. Now, what kind of skirt? I’m going to leave that up to you, your body type, and your taste. I love a good a-line skirt. This one from amazon is a wonderful choice for something simple and it works great for apple shaped bodies. Whatever style you choose, having a solid colored skirt in your closet opens so many outfit possibilities.
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Wrap Dress
The wrap dress is said to be one of the most universally flattering dresses. I’d have to agree. I always feel like the most sophisticated and sexy version of myself when I’m wearing a wrap dress. This is another perfect dress to throw on when you need something that looks put together but doesn’t require a lot of effort.
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SIMILAR TO THE ONE I’M WEARING
Now, let’s move on to pants.
Jeans
For jeans, I’m not going to be the cut and style police. If you still love skinnies, then rock your skinnies. If you’re only into straight, then do you. Personally, I love both skinny and straight legged jeans. I also like wide leg jeans and baggy. They all have time and place when I’m creating outfits. Wear what makes you happy. The only suggestions I have for jeans is to have these three washes.
light wash jeans
dark wash jeans
black jeans
I suggest these washes because these three washes can work throughout your wardrobe and each has their own place. Light wash jeans read a little more casual in outfit creating, and are perfect for spring and summer. Dark wash reads a little more formal and is perfect when looking for a more pulled together look (think evening and going out). Black jeans come in handy for both casual and formal occasions. They’re a perfectly neutral piece. Another suggestion for jeans is to have a pair with no distressing. Distressing is fun, but can be distracting with some outfit combinations. American Eagle, Old Navy, and Target are my favorite places to shop for jeans. It doesn’t matter the style or the price, a good pair of jeans is a must have a piece in your wardrobe.
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Trousers
Don’t sleep on the outfit possibilities when it comes to trousers. Much like jeans, it doesn’t really matter the cut of the trousers—it’s up to your taste. However, I suggest that you have a good pair of solid colored trousers. Some great neutral colors for trousers are black, grey, or khaki.
Personally, I love a straight leg trouser and a wide leg. Trousers can be worn in a more business casual way with a button down or a satin cami. Or you can dress your pants down with a t-shirt and denim jacket. Get creative and try out a pair in your wardrobe.
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These are the wardrobe essentials that I feel you should have to jumpstart or revamp your closet. All the items on this list are my opinion. In the end, the color and style of the pieces should fit your personal taste and aesthetic. Also, this is not a complete list, but rather, just the go-to’s I feel are most important. Leave me a comment if you would like me to make a video with a complete list of all the basics I feel every closet should have. Or just leave me a comment about your thoughts on jeans. I’d love to hear them. If you want more help with your closet or outfit ideas, watch this video here. As always, stay bright, live true, and be vividly you. Bye!