Do you remember how Audrey Hepburn wore the little black dress in the romantic comedy Breakfast at Tiffany’s? She was elegant and charming, she was so self confident in that outfit completed by a pearl necklace, that she used it right from the early morning. What about the famous tearful goodbye between Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in the movie Casablanca? They both were not caring of the rain. He was wearing a belted trench coat that would become as famous as the last kiss between the two actors . The list of actors and their iconic outfits is longer and includes also Jackie Kennedy and her elegant suits and dresses. She became such a symbol of elegance to inspire a style that carries her name. Many items have become famous because of the celebrities that chose them. But if they are still popular the main reason is that they are versatile items, that can be used in many occasions and in many seasons. That’s why they are named “must have”. Let’s see how they can be worn.
The little black dress – LBD
In my list it’s certainly the first must have item and I’ve more than one LBD in my wardrobe. Black is the classic colour of this dress that works well on every body. Accessories can transform this item so that it can be used 24 hours a day. Have you ever opened your closet and screamed “I’ve nothing to wear!” My husbands would say “too many times!”. But the LBD is waiting for you on those days of misty that prevent you from finding anything in your wardrobe. You can wear it to go to work, with a jacket and a pearl necklace. And if you have to attend an important dinner after work and do not have time to go home to change your outfit, don’t worry. The LBD wont’ betray you. Above all if you wear it with a pair of high heel sandals, a sparkling clutch bag, a shoulder wrap stole. Your look will live up to any expection. Do you want to know how I used the little black dress to create different outfits? Read my post about the little black dress
The trench coat
You won’t do without it right from the first time you’ll wear it. The trench coat is always on fashion and at the same time it’s very useful in Spring and Autumn. The classic pattern is belted and in beige colour, but it’s up to you to choose the best shade that matches your colours perfectly. To go to work is unique: this must have item reliability and professionalism to your look. You can embellish your outfit with a coloured foulard that adds a touch of femininity to this male clothing par excellence.
The tailleur
There should be one suit at least in our closet, classic pattern, jacket and trousers or jacket and skirt. It’s the item that you need for the work, the single items can be worn separately for a a more personal and creative look. The classic male pair of trousers becomes stylish and feminine with a pair of high heel shoes and a silk shirt, an outfit that is perfect for less formal places. You can wear the jacket together with a pair of blue jeans, a t-shirt, sneakers: the result is a perfect if you want to add a touch of elegance and personality to a sporty outfit.
The classic white shirt
It is the must have item that matches the largest number of outfits, either because it works well with almost all colours, or because it can be used from dawn to sunset. To go to work, wear the white shirt with a suit, to go out with friends, match it with a skirt or a pair of Capri pants, for a special evening wear it with the top three buttons undone, a sparkling top that can be seen under it, the suit’s trousers, high heels and a beautiful clutch bag.
The twin set
The cardigan and the top in the same colour are really elegant and have never gone out of fashion. Coordinated with a classic skirt or trousers, they are a great alternative to the classic work uniform composed of jacket and shirt. Paired with a feminine skirt or sporty jeans, a twinset is always a good choice. The cardigan is very helpful in those seasons when it is necessary to start covering the shoulders, before the arrival of colder days.
A beautiful pair of jeans
A pair of jeans cannot miss in your closet. It’s a versatile garment, that can be used practically to create all kinds of outfits. Which is the reason why many fashion brands often include jeans in their collections, to create different styles, from free time to special occasions and work outfits. A woman over 40ies cannot do without a beautiful pair of jeans, which can be enriched with a shirt and a silk scarf, matched with an elegant jacket. There are so many types of jeans, suitable for any body shapes and if you have doubts about the best jeans that can flatter your figure, read my guide about the perfect pair of jeans
Which is your favourite must have item?
Pages you may be interested in:
Elle, article on wardrobe essentials
Stay tuned for my next blog posts