On a lazy day (if I ever have the gift of having one of these so-called-days) I love to browse magazines and the worldwide web for the latest fashion trends. When I was younger, I took pride in owning pieces in my wardrobe that rivaled the trends in Hollywood and NY. I always found a deal and certainly didn’t shop in high-end stores, but on my budget, I could find items that spruced up my attire. In the 80’s, it was the pop of neon or oddly-patterned bulky sweaters with patent penny loafers, tightly cuffed stone-washed jeans and a coordinating scrunchi in the hair. The 90’s led to plaid Vans, combat boots, bib overalls, over-sized plaid button down flannels and maybe the “Rachel” as a haircut. The new century brought a mix of the 70’s and 90’s with boot-cut jeans, the cami under a cardigan or shrug, the comeback of the capri, from chunky shoes to flip-flops and hair with chunky low-lights and the occasional “crimped”strand for a surprise.
Staying up with these trends can really be exhausting!
Lately, I have found respite in the so-called “Staple” wardrobe. This wardrobe contains pieces that experts build on as a foundation to anybody’s style. These are your go-to pieces when you just don’t know what to wear for an occasion, or when you just don’t feel like putting together a trendy ensemble but still look and feel put-together.
According to New York Magazine’s The CUT You can put 50 “simple” items in your closet and you will own a solid wardrobe foundation. If 50 items are too much to manage, Elle Magazine narrows the foundation to 30 Essential Wardrobe Pieces that if you mix and match on any given day, will provide you with a “pulled together” look. Each of these expert lists contain items we would expect: the Little Black Dress, fitted blazer, the Pump, perfectly fitting jeans and a handbag, along with items that are not quite as obvious: Matching Pajamas, wrap coat and a Bateau shirt.
Images from elle.com
And don’t think I forgot about the men that are looking for ways to step up their game! You also can build your wardrobe around staple pieces to ensure you have something for every occasion. Forbes narrows your staples to 10 must have items.Khaki pants, the perfect fitting solid-colored pair of jeans, watch and blue blazer are just a handful of items you may want to have on hand.
Images from forbes.com
If you are on a budget, try shopping at Nordstrom Rack, Burlington Coat Factory, Marshall’s or TJ Maxx. You can find name brand named or not-so-known brand name items that will help you build your wardrobe foundation that won’t break your bank.
Now that you have the tools to pick staple pieces for your wardrobe, grab a friend and go shopping!
Great ideas for shopping on a budget. I have been shopping on a budget so long that I feel guilt now if I spend too much on clothes.
You may have to help me with my wardrobe Kerri.
Any time!!!