Here are five essential wardrobe staples for women and men that will take you from the boardroom to the bar with only a few strategically placed accessories.
Women
Little black dress
If Audrey Hepburn has taught us anything, it’s that a little black dress is essential in any woman’s wardrobe. Worn with the right shoes and accessories, this multi-purpose dress is timeless and a perfect RSVP for any invitation.
Classic white shirt
The classic white shirt is a foundation piece on which to build an outfit. Pair a white shirt with a pair of pants for a stylish work ensemble or team it up with jeans for a more casual look. Three elements to look for when purchasing a white shirt are wearability, style and tailoring. There are a variety of styles that you can choose from such as classic man tailored shirts, the wrap shirt or ruffled shirts.
Trench coat
A trench coat gives you a ‘don’t mess with me’ attitude that no PowerPoint presentation or well written strategy can ever accomplish. Trench coats earn their keep at work and over time at after work drinks. Buy a trench coat in a neutral colour like basic black or cream that will transcend all season’s trends.
Jeans
A well fitting pair of jeans is an essential wardrobe item and can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the occasion. Buy jeans in a classic dark blue colour and avoid embellishments as they do not always translate well into next season. There are a variety of cuts to suit any body shape from skinny jeans to boyfriend jeans.
Peep toe pumps
A pair of classic black, peep toe pumps looks equally at home with a pair of jeans, work pants or dress. Peep-toe shoes can be worn virtually all-year round; the exposed toe is perfect to wear in warmer months, or paired with tights for an updated winter look
Men
Suit
A well cut suit is your calling card. Make sure it makes a statement and not a question about your abilities. A suit is an investment and it’s better to buy one well designed suit or tailored suit than three ill fitting ones.
White shirt
A crisp, white shirt is an essential item in any man’s wardrobe. The clean lines of a freshly ironed man’s white shirt has an understated elegance, charm and long lasting appeal. Three important elements in a white shirt are a luxurious fabric, beautiful design and expert tailoring. For the best investment, buy a white shirt in 100% cotton. You won’t regret it.
Jeans
You can’t go wrong with a pair of well fitting, straight leg denim jeans in dark navy and a simple pocket design. You don’t really need to break the bank to buy the trendiest pair of jeans, just make sure they fit well and they are comfortable. A darker denim is a more versatile colour and a classic look in any man’s wardrobe.
Shoes and belt
Every man needs a pair of well polished black or brown shoes and belt in his wardrobe. Invest in a quality leather pair of shoes and belt that will last the distance. As the adage says, you can tell a lot about a man by his shoes.
Tie
A tie in a solid colour such as grey or black is a functional and stylish core wardrobe staple. Leave the gaudy prints for the work Christmas party.
Your wardrobe ideally should consist of 70% classical items of clothing and 30% trend based clothing. If you invest in wardrobe staples that will last you for a few seasons, you’ll never wake up in the morning wondering what you’re going to wear.