Do you know what you’re wearing tomorrow? Did you previously plan what you were wearing today? If you’re one of those who already has their whole week’s outfit planned out according to your schedule, then you are one of the lucky few and we envy you. You should start learning more about the psychology of dressing and how to dress for success. However, most mortals wake up every morning not having a plan of what to wear and usually waste precious time rummaging through their closets and cabinets to put together an outfit for the day. Doing this daily can become tiresome and in the long run, quite stressful. To avoid this scenario every morning, a simple solution is to go back to the basics. There are just a few items you must have in your closet. With fewer choices to go thru, picking an outfit is faster and easier.
If you already have a closet-full of clothes but you still look at your closet every morning thinking you don’t have anything to wear, then a little decluttering and a new perspective on what you should have in your closet should refresh your style senses.
Or if you are trying to overhaul your fashion style, then these basics are a good way to start. These basic items can be mixed and matched for a casual to a semi-formal look or amped up for a formal event. Later on, you can add to this collection to come up with a wardrobe that expresses your very own personal style.
First, decide on a color palette. A basic tip is to have a neutral, a darker and a lighter color in your wardrobe which complement each other so that they can mix-and-match easily.
1. T-Shirt
A classic t-shirt is a good foundation for most attires. T-shirts can be round-necked, v-necked, loose or body-fitting. Pick the style that you are most comfortable with. Get one with a solid color that you can wear every day or one that goes well with the color palette you want for your wardrobe. Having a white, grey and black t-shirt in your wardrobe can give you several options.
2. Jeans
Jeans are a fashion must-have. They can be used for many different occasions depending on the tops and accessories you pair them with and with proper care, they can last you a long time. Pick a pair of jeans in a dark or light color. Make sure that they fit you well because you will find yourself wearing them most of the time.
3. Button-up Shirt
A button-up shirt comes in a variety of styles and colors. You can choose from plaid, chambray or even a denim one in a light fabric. You can use this shirt alone tucked into your pants or as a layer over your t-shirt for colder seasons.
4. Blazer
To amp up your attire, for a client meeting for example, then go business-casual by putting on a blazer on top of your t-shirt or button-up shirt and your jeans. You can even use the same attire to attend a wedding.
5. Jacket
A versatile jacket can take your outfit from basic to casual in a jiffy and its pretty useful when the weather gets extra cold. Choose a style that goes well with your daily activities. There’s denim, leather, military-style, etc.
6. Shoes
A good pair of shoes is essential to complete your outfit. For women, a pair of flats, comfortable heels or ankle boots can be used from errands to office. For men, a pair of dark-colored loafers, a classic oxford or brogues, or ankle boots can also take you from a simple date to a business meeting.
7. Statement Jewelry
To put some punch to your outfit, accessorize with statement jewelry. The easiest one to go for is a wristwatch. Pick one in a classic design so that it compliments any of your attire combinations. If you have the budget, you can also go for a luxury watch because it serves as an investment too.
For women, a pair of pearl earrings or a chunky necklace are also great ways to accessorise and are great for all occasions. These days, both men and women can also make a fashion statement with a uniquely designed bracelet or a ring.
These are some basic fashion items that should make up your wardrobe. For more variety to your outfits, here are some items that you can add to your clothing options.
For Women
Dress
A little black or white dress, or one in another color, is a basic clothing item that you can wear on many different occasions. Choose a knee-length dress or go for a maxi dress for more flair to your outfit. You can wear it as is for a party or a day out. You can top it with a blazer for formal occasions or top it with a jacket for the colder seasons.
Skirt
A skirt is a great way to exchange for your jeans if you want to go for a more feminine look. Just be sure that it is comfortable enough for you to wear all day and that the length is just right for you to be able to enjoy your daily activities.
For Men
Polo Shirt
On occasions that you don’t want to be too casual with a t-shirt but you don’t want to look too formal with a blazer or you just don’t want to bother with a button-up, then a polo shirt is just the right thing to put on. It can go well with your jeans, and it can also look good with a blazer or jacket for colder months.
Neck Tie
For more formal events, a neck tie can take your jeans and blazer ensemble to a more formal level. Grab one or two on your next shopping schedule for more mix-and-match variety.
Day Bag
Finally, every man and woman should have a day bag which can carry your all-day essentials whether you’re running an errand, braving the traffic or attending a conference. This is different from your laptop bag. If you can, try investing on a designer handbag. Some luxury handbags can be a great form of investment too. Moreover, your bag can also serve as your statement piece.
Most women will carry their make-up and toiletry essentials in their bag and most men may think that they don’t need one and that their wallet carries all their essentials. However, a handy bag can be used to carry your electronics with you, such as your chargers as well as work stuff like your notebook and pens, a book for some reading, and maybe an extra box of tissue or wet wipes or a handkerchief for occasions when you might need one.
First published on Pinoy Smart Living 08.28.2018
Original photo by Artificial Photography on Unsplash