Fashion 101: Your 10 Piece Foundation Wardrobe
August 26th, 2008
We’ve gotten a lot of questions from recent college grads (and some not-so-recent college grads) about building a wardrobe from the ground up. The situation? You already have jeans, tees, and plenty of weekend wear. But the foundations of a chic wardrobe? Maybe you need some help. You’ve come to the right place. Here’s a 10 piece skeleton wardrobe from which to build upon:
The Business Suit
Classic Blazer and Trouser | $198 and $98, respectively, at Banana Republic
School’s over, and you’re off to work. Keep a pant suit or a skirt suit around for interviews - and buy multiples if your office is business formal.
The Perfect White Button Down Shirt
Solid Kelly Shirt | $54 at J Crew
Fit is key for any garment, but it’s especially important for your foundation wardrobe. Start your button-down shirt collection with a crisp white shirt, and then build out your shirt wardrobe with patterns and colors.
The Going Out Top
Solid Silk Elizabeth Halter | $88 at J Crew
The ideal top is a stunner that can seamlessly travel from work to cocktails.
The Knee Length Skirt
Pencil Perfect Skirt | $69.50 at Martin + Osa
An a-line skirt is universally flattering, but feel free to choose one that works for your figure, your personality, and your lifestyle. I personally have a collection of pencil skirts hanging in my closet. I love the hourglass shape they create, especially since I’m shaped like a boy.
The Perfect Fit Trousers
The Perfect Trouser | $54.50 at Gap
How do you know that the fit is perfect? It should be fitted but not tight at the waist, and it should drape nicely, with a slight flare from knee to foot. Have your trousers hemmed to a length that works with leg-lengthening heels.
The Go To Evening Dress
Sleeveless Origami Knit Dress | $150 at Banana Republic
Because you never know when an emergency party situation will come up. Keep a great evening dress in the back of your closet for spur of the moment dress up occasions.
The Go To Day Dress
European Collection Wrap Dress | $78 at Gap
Because a dress is a great alternative to jeans and a cute tee for weekends, and dresses spice up your work wardrobe. Need some inspiration? Try a shirtdress, a wrap dress, or a sweaterdress.
The Wear Everywhere Sweater
Tartine Cardigan | $88 at J Crew
Perfect for breezy mornings and cool evenings–and for times when the AC is turned up too high at work.
The Tailored Blazer
Two Button Cotton Blazer | $104 (sale) at Martin + Osa
A simple, sophisticated look? Pair your tailored blazer with your crisp white shirt and jeans. Substitute a tee or polo under the tailored blazer for a younger, more playful look.
The Trenchcoat
Classic Puff Sleeve Trenchcoat | $150 at Banana Republic
The trench is my go-to coat–so much so that I have a trench collection. The trench is so versatile and yet so chic. And it works for all of those times when a blazer isn’t just right.
What are your go-to wardrobe pieces? Tell us, what else would you recommend to build out your foundation wardrobe?
Entry Filed under: Shopping Guide,Women
10 Comments
1. Diana | August 26th, 2008 at 5:19 am
I have been waiting for a post like this FOR AGES!! THank you SO MUCH!
2. JC | August 26th, 2008 at 8:42 am
Hi! Recent grad here. This is a great list!
I just looked in my closet the other day and realized that everything I own is black, white, grey, or blue.
I think keeping things simple in terms of palette has helped me a lot, because it’s easier to mix and match, and I can go crazy with accessories without looking like I’m playing dress-up.
Other essentials I’d add to the list:
– plain white t-shirts, black t-shirts … ditch the graphic tees!
– opaque tights
– black flats
– black pumps
3. Trisha | August 26th, 2008 at 9:45 am
Glad you like the list!
JC – my closet is pretty simple color-wise as well. I own a lot of blacks, whites, greys, and navys, and I sprinkle in color with greens, yellows, oranges, and reds.
And yes, you can’t ever have enough plain white (and black) tees!
4. Kathleen | August 26th, 2008 at 11:31 am
I would add some basic pieces of jewelry to the list for accessorizing, such as white/yellow gold hoops and pearl or diamond/cubic zirconia studs. I would also add some basic work bags like a black or brown leather tote/handbag for fall/winter and khaki/white canvas totes for spring/summer.
I think it’d also be helpful to see a list of recommended work shoes some time in the future! I wouldn’t be surprised to see flats and loafers on that list.
5. Lenya Jones | August 26th, 2008 at 4:52 pm
OMG! Best post ever! So many people don’t know how to dress for work. Thanks so much. I will be posting this on my blog today.
LJ
6. Trisha | August 26th, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Thanks, Lenya
Kathleen – wonderful picks for accessories to spice up this foundation wardrobe. And thanks for the story idea – will have to do a work shoes roundup article
7. Minnesotamom | August 29th, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Thanks–great post! I have most of these, but not all. Time to grow up my wardrobe!
8. Mary | September 3rd, 2008 at 4:29 pm
Thank you so much! I just started a job (graduated in June woo!) and realized that so much of my closet is not appropriate for work. I’m also on a strict budget, so I really appreciate that you kept the list short.
9. Trisha | September 4th, 2008 at 1:33 am
Congrats on starting your first post-college job, Mary. Glad this list helped!
10. Dani | October 10th, 2010 at 7:18 am
Thanks for this list. I’m also a recent grad at a new job! I have a question – can I wear black flat shoes with my pencil and knee length skirts? I work in a super casual environment office, but still want to look put together. It would be nice to stick to comfortable shoes too. Thanks!