Many people think that I shop every day but the secret to creating fun outfits is to have a good staple wardrobe to work with. These are the quality investment pieces that are versatile and can be paired with trends.
I have been dressing myself for almost 20 years now, and boy has a lot changed. Over the years, I’ve become smarter with my purchases and learned how to source through merchandise that fit my personal style. Now I know which pieces are worth the investment and which ones are not. I choose to invest in well made pieces because they reduce waste, and save me money and time. More than money and convenience, these pieces really do speak to my personality. I think creating a wardrobe with pieces that you love will help you find confidence in your appearance. Creating a capsule wardrobe can make dressing up easy and fun. I’d like to share some of the key pieces in my capsule wardrobe with you.
Tailored Blazer
I love blazers! This is one piece that I add to almost any outfit to dress up my look. I think finding a good tailored blazer is important. I emphasize “tailored” because a lot of women are wearing blazers that don’t fit well. When shopping for the perfect fit, be sure to check that the sleeves aren’t too long, the shoulder seams fall at the shoulders and the midsection isn’t too tight. The tailored blazer adds this “boss-chic” touch to your outfit. I have a black and a navy blazer that I can throw over a t-shirt, a blouse, or a dress and walk out the door.
Tops
- The White Button-Down Shirt– similar to the blazer, the fit is essential. For all the busty ladies out there, I know the struggle to find a button-up that avoids the “gap” issue. What has worked for me is going up a size or adding a button on the inside of the shirt where the gap forms.
- Silk Blouse– I just love the feel and the look of a silk blouse. It screams classy and sexy at the same time. This is the perfect top that you can wear from day to night.
- T-shirts– I tend to buy neutral color (white, black, grey and navy) cotton t-shirts. 100% cotton t-shirts are comfortable and durable. In the winter, I like to replace my t-shirts with turtlenecks. These are great basics to own.
Outerwear
- Trench Coat– check out the trench coat post, it’s just a classic piece.
- Leather Jacket– I dress pretty casually most days and the leather jacket adds this edgy cool vibe to my clean earth tone pieces.
- Seasonal Coat– It gets cold in Boston, get you a coat!
Bottoms
- Jeans– I love a good pair of jeans, but lately it has been difficult for me to find thick denim- most jeans are made with extra stretch and I hate it. Levi’s is one brand that still makes jeans like the ones made in the 90’s. I recommend having a black pair and a dark blue pair. If you have jeans with cutouts and fades, those are great but always keep a plain pair for those evening outings.
- Trousers– I have a black pair that I wear every time I want to look professional without having to wear a full suit.
Little Black Dress (LBD)
The Little Black Dress– I have black dresses that range from casual styles to super formal. The good thing about LBD is that you can wear it over and over again and no one can tell if you are wearing the same dress. When I’m invited to events, I can almost guarantee that I have a LBD that’s fitting for the occasion, saving me a ton of money and time.
Shoes
- Flats– I’m a loafers kinda-gal. I don’t buy flats that are uncomfortable or poorly made. I invest in leather loafers/flats that will last me years instead of buying faux leather shoes that have to be replaces every few months.
- Stilettos– To be honest, I wear these only when I have to dress up for a wedding or the ballet- add a little elegance. I have been more into block heels at the moment, so much more comfortable.
- Sneakers– Talk about comfort! I live in a walking city, so these are clutch. I love sneakers that I can wear with a dress or a pair of jeans and I’m not talking about running sneakers either.
- Boots– A mid-calf boot is the way to go. These are all I wear in the fall/winter.
- Sandals– Not flip-flops, Old Navy flip-flops are only allowed on the beach ladies. Don’t let me catch you wearing those on the streets. (side-eye)
Accessories
- Tote bag– I love me a good tote bag. I tend to carry leather totes because they are durable and last awhile. I like a large tote that’s big enough to fit my laptop, wallet, phone and makeup bag.
- Evening Clutch– where else are you going to put your lipstick, cash and keys? Get a black clutch will most likely go with anything you wear.
- Watch– I get that we all have cellphones, but we are adults. A watch shows that you are punctual and responsible. Buy a watch!
- Diamond studs– I hate having to change my earrings and diamond studs are just classic. another great day to night piece.
- Lipstick– Don’t leave your house without your lipstick. I love my nude lipstick for the day, but that pop of red is my go-to evening color.
I hope this was helpful. It has taken me years to build my capsule wardrobe with quality items but it has been worth the investment. These pieces allow me to create unique outfits and by purchasing less I have grown to appreciate what I have. I hope this inspires you to take a closer look at your closet and revamp it with pieces that truly speak to your personal style.
xo-Dulce
