The 6 Core Component of Building a Wardrobe

Clothes are expensive, and building a wardrobe can be a big ticket expenditure.  But, at some point you’re ready to move from your poor indie look to what I call the “I’m a grown up with a job” look.

When it’s time to look and act like a professional, you need to start off with quality core wardrobe items.  Those things that are classic in cut, color, and style, and which will last for years.  (Think Audrey Hepburn or Princess Grace.) Although these pieces may cost more initially, classic styles can last forever, giving your pieces a very low amortized cost.

When it comes to core items buy the very best that you can afford.  Get things tailored so they fit well because an expensive item with a sloppy fit will look cheap.

Here are 6 core wardrobe pieces to build around:

1. A suit.  Even if you don’t work in a suit environment, you’ll need one for job searches, interviews, or photo ops.  Change the blouse and your accessories, and it can do double duty for a wedding, funeral, or business related event.  Black and navy are classic choices, but any solid neutral will be fine.
2. A little black dress.  Opt for a simple classic style that can be paired with a jacket and go from the boardroom to the dance floor with a change shoes and accessories.
3. Classic blazer.  Find a color that coordinates with the suit, and you expand your versatility with just one piece.
4. Pair of tailored slacks.  Forget the cropped and the hip huggers, and choose a traditional classic trouser cut in a neutral color that coordinates with your suit.
5. Blouse.  One dynamite blouse that can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for business or evening wear.  Choose a simple style that will look good under a suit or tucked into jeans.  White is the most classic, but any basic color will do.
6. Jeans.  These are not your garden variety work in the garden jeans.  These are jeans that fit you like a glove and make you look and feel like a million bucks!

You can mix and match these items with some of your inexpensive and trendy clothes and give them a whole different look.  Classic don’t have to be boring, after all.   And as your budget expands, and your personal style evolves, these essential are the basis from which your wardrobe will grow.

Did I miss anything?  What do you think are the core essentials for building a wardrobe.

Photo credit: Armani from Neiman Marcus