Over the years, even before I started blogging, Women would ask me the formula for a wardrobe full of outfits. It’s an easy question to answer on an individual case by case basis as it’s really just down to body shape & lifestyle. However the question is far more complicated when speaking to a wider audience because our needs often vary.
For example – those who work in an office will need more of the tailored look than a Mum who works from home. Likewise a petite woman will wear a different cut to a pear-shaped or hour-glass figure & so on.
Then yesterday I received yet another specific request from an American reader urging me to write this post. As I contemplated how to approach this gigantic topic, it occurred to me I should also cover seasons & accessories. Basically what we need for these elements to come together are categories & chapters.
So I decided to bite the bullet & start writing this in parts. This would make an awesome book written in guide form but since I don’t have time to write a book, I’ll begin with a blog post and see where that leads me.
We need to curate a closet that works within itself. A wardrobe full of possibilities, limited only by our imagination. Every piece either compliments or contrasts another, so cohesive that we can literally shop our own closet every single day. Timeless classics mixed with staples and statement pieces all come together to describe your personal style.
let’s begin with the Staples
Without staples it’s difficult to make your closet cohesive. Staples are the foundation of your wardrobe and probably the easiest category to accumulate. In fact it’s very easy to end up with all Staples & no PIZAZZ so try not to buy too much of this lot. Equally there is great benefit in spending the top end of your budget when you consider these are the items getting the most use. Not only do they need to withstand the most wear and tear but also look “the business”. High-end Staples elevate the entire outfit making it look polished and classy. This is where the High-Low turn of phrase came from. We want effortless chic every time right?
1. White Shirt
The basic white shirt can be over-sized, slim fit or straight cut. It can also have a grandfather collar, wide collar or anything in between. Here is my silk shirt from DAI that comes with a detachable tie!
The buttons may be covered or exposed & the sleeves could be long, three-quarters or elbow length – cuffed, double cuffed or no cuffs at all. These are the details that come down to your style preference & what suits your body shape. Take your time trying a few until you find the right fit. Personally I prefer my white shirt one of two ways. Either a stiff cotton with collar, long sleeves & cuffs or billowy silk. Owning both of these styles gives me endless options to play around with. For an example see this post where I pushed up the sleeves & left the tail hanging out.
2. Tailored Trousers
I have quite a few pairs of tailored trousers because I’m a fan of every style & I do wear them a lot. Basically stick to a solid colour and go for the cut that suits your body shape – Straight leg, cropped, flared, side pockets, flat front, tapered leg & wide leg. If all that looks too bewildering, here’s what you do…Buy one of each online, try them all on at home & have your Hubs, mate or kid take a photo of you in each pair with your white shirt & favourite pumps. Then put the photos on your computer so you can look at them all together. It’s a lot easier to be objective this way plus your eye has a more accurate perspective of proportion. Trust me it’ll surprise you. Once you’ve decided on the best pair just send the rest back, simple!
Currently my favourite trouser is this wide leg pair from Winser London. Incidentally, Winser does every style of tailored pants to an incredibly high standard. So even if my style isn’t for you it’s worth having a browse through the others. I’ve also worn mine styled differently here. The navy blue is such a wonderful colour for me but black & grey are just as versatile.
I also love the range that DAI has, particularly the cropped kick flare in red. It’s also worth considering the matching blazer. If you can’t afford the entire suit at one time, go back and buy it later. The trouser suit is no longer reserved for office wear, think t-shirt and sneakers or silk blouse and strappy sandals. Everyone needs a beautiful suit in their closet, for more inspiration have a look at my one from HOBBS.
3. Cashmere Jumper
This is your main sweater that you’ll likely wear most of the year. It should be lightweight yet warm, choose a neutral colour like grey or pastel that works for every season. It doesn’t have to be cashmere, you can go for a beautiful fine wool if you prefer. However I recommend a good quality natural fibre. I always spend a bit more on my knitwear because I wear it literally to death. Although heed my word of warning and be meticulous when packing your knits away for Summer. I’ve been caught out twice by ravaging clothes moths.
As for the shape of your sweater, once again that’s your call. I have this light grey over-sized V neck cashmere jumper from Marks and Spencer that I wear as much this fitted crew neck shape from AllSaints. My favourite style at the moment is this boyfriend fit from Winser London. A fine knit that tucks in easily but also looks gorgeous left loose. Remember to take your time trying a few before you decide or perhaps buy two opposing styles if , like me, you adore knitwear?
4. Shirt Dress
Now to describe the Shirt Dress is to limit the possibilities of this timeless classic. True it’s just a button down dress although with a gazillion permutations. More than one will suit you!
Fitted, boxy, buttoned right through or just the top half. Lengths and sleeves of every variation and of course an endless array of fabric & print to choose from. My advice? Start with plain and simple such as pin striped and you can’t go wrong. Here is my favourite at the moment & another floor length shirt dress I adore. Remember to wear your shirt dress through to Winter with boots. Starting in Fall with a chunky knit cardi or biker jacket. Move onto the layered look by wearing a turtleneck underneath for Winter. This piece is super easy to re-style and not just limited to Spring and Summer, be adventurous! The fun of a superb shirt dress is it looks just as fabulous over jeans & trousers as it does on its own. That’s like two outfits for the price of one!
5. Trench Coat
The Burberry Trench coat is universally known as the ultimate iconic staple. A must have for every chic and timeless wardrobe. Unfortunately I’ve never been able to justify the cost of one and failed to find a good second-hand option.
These days you will find a beautiful trench coat on the high street at prices are lower than the legendary Burberry. My gorgeous Trench is by Marks and Spencer, surprisingly luxurious in its detail & finish. There are more brands doing the Trench now but if your heart is still set on the original Burberry look at Vestiaire Collective, The Real Real and ThredUp.
With so many good second-hand websites around now, you’ll get quite a bargain basement Burberry.
6. Midi Length A-line Skirt
It’s no secret I am a fan of the Whistles midi skirt, I’ve featured them here before. This shape is ideal for pretty much anyone, actually I can’t imagine what body type it wouldn’t suit. Naturally you may have to alter the hem for the ideal length but this is not a game changer. If you don’t have a good tailor on call, find one stat!
In any case the midi length A-line skirt needn’t cost a fortune. Every brand has one as it’s a simple yet sophisticated look to style. Don’t worry if the fit isn’t perfect, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with making adjustments to get it right, even on brand new clothes. Often it’s a necessity, after all there is rarely the perfect sizing to suit every customer. If you’re not used to doing this, give it a try. There’s no need to let a little adjustment get in the way of owning a forever piece. Essentially you end up with a bespoke garment for high street price.
7. White T-Shirt
The perfect white T-Shirt was once an urban myth. I couldn’t find a well cut one that held its shape after the first wash for love nor money. No matter how much I was willing to spend! Hanes did a good white tee for a while but then along came Alexander Wang & his T by Alexander Wang range. This man changed everything Tee related forever.
Sounds rather dramatic I guess but the simple white T-Shirt has rescued me from more than one outfit crisis in my life. Let me tell you, the right one will transform basic jeans with a blazer thrown over the top (here) or give a super dressy skirt the nightclub edge. Paired with sneaks, a great quality white T-shirt instantly turns smart trousers hipster cool. Choose basic white crew neck, V neck, capped sleeves or longer length – The choice now is infinite.
8. Silk Blouse
The wonderful thing about a silk shirt is how luxurious it feels. I always pack a silk shirt when ever I travel, whether it’s a short city break or long-haul flight. My silk shirt is a no-brainer for capsule wardrobe heaven. Read here when I took my khaki Winser silk on a secret escape to Dubrovnik.
When you need a quick yet elegant change, a silk shirt will instantly transform you into Ms Parisian Chic! Throw that bad boy on for a day of shopping & sightseeing with your BFF – It’s too simple and it will last the day! Trust me I know, see my weekend in Paris outfit wearing Winser London’s signature silk shirt. You only need one sensational silk shirt (although two opposing colours is better) in your wardrobe so make it count and buy well.
9. Ballet flats
Ballet flats are quintessential Parisian Chic aren’t they? Slide your tootsies into a good quality pair of these shoes and you’re instantly transformed into Ines de la Fressange. Indeed every true style icon is photographed wearing ballet flats. Take Audrey Hepburn and Olivia Palermo for starters – see my Pinterest board for the styles I admire.
Ballet flats work with pretty much any outfit from dresses and skirts to suits, jeans and even shorts. Once again I urge you to spend the upper end of your budget on these for a lifetime investment. There’s nothing worse than a cheap pair of sloppy misshapen ballerinas. Not to mention the comfort aspect!
My first choice for ballets is always Lanvin because they hold their shape forever – Seriously! What’s more they’re designed with a small hidden wedge heel that supports the arch of your foot which makes them super comfy. Ideal for chic city sightseeing or anyone who is on their feet all day. I especially love them for day trips into London with the kids. My ballets were also brilliant when I worked long days in the television studio.
See me wearing them here & here. My other favourite ballet brand is the stunningly beautiful two-tone made famous by Chanel, worn here. I realise Lanvin & Chanel cost a lot & you may not wish to use your budget that way, don’t worry I have tried & tested a couple of less expensive options that are absolutely gorgeous too. Plus there is always the second-hand alternative since they have such longevity you’ll find them easily on the usual sites.
10. Nude Pump
In my opinion this is the most wearable colour shoe, even more than ubiquitous black. It’s not particularly important what type of heel you choose only that it’s a covered shoe, plain but beautifully made & comfortable. Now here is where you choose the shoes as the saying goes…
Personally I think either a mid height block heel or a stiletto are the most versatile but if you like a kitten heel go with that. I don’t believe the heel shape or even height is something we should follow in fashion. I have a plethora of different heels in my shoe collection all of which are infinitely wearable regardless of what any fashion expert deems on trend. As a prime example see here my ancient Prada kitten heels I wore recently, supposedly off trend right now. The last word on nude pumps has to be my coveted 50th birthday present by Monsieur Louboutin or I’d happily accept this pair from Madame Chanel. Like Hubs even reads this sigh…
11. Convertible Cross Body Bag
Certainly if you’re an incurable handbag lover like me, there are several classic styles to covet. “Bags” is such a worthy category that it deserves an entire blog post, however to keep this one from becoming biblical I chose THE most versatile style. Owning a convertible cross body bag, i.e the strap is removable, will see you through any occasion. For this reason I would forego every other style to afford the finest quality of this bag. The reason is simple, you actually wear it like jewellery! Imagine any sartorial situation & I guarantee your exquisite petite bag will work. First you must think about what colour will best compliment your wardrobe. It may be that black is your safest bet although red can amaze & animal print delight. Here are some examples of how often I wear my vintage Chanel mini – one, two, three, four & five outfits. As you can see the bag builds on the outfit yet somehow looks different with each one. For more detail of what to look for when buying a vintage Chanel bag read this post.
12. Awesome Jeans
O.K jeans are a given on every must have fashion list. However the specific style will change every season and perhaps even every year depending on Who Says What…
Well I’m sorry but that simply doesn’t work for me. I love my jeans, I’m a jeans girl and I have dozens of pairs. I simply won’t throw out a certain style just because it’s not on trend. Besides, the jeans shape is a very personal thing, right?
What suits you, your shape and lifestyle might not be in fashion but if it looks great WHO CARES! The real trick with jeans is finding that magical shape to suit you. An awesome pair of jeans that make you look and feel incredible is difficult to find, but here, once again my advice is SPEND THE MONEY! Remember this is a lifetime investment, jeans never wear out.
The top end of the denim market has a lot to offer. Trust me, I’ve searched high and low over decades to now settle on just a few labels. These are jeans I wear on rotation all year round so they have a proven track record for coping with wear and tear. I tend not to over launder my clothes anyway because a) water use and electricity consumption is incredibly bad for the environment. And b) over washing not only wears out the fabric but sends micro fibres into the oceans. As we now know these micro fibres were discovered in fish – I eat fish.
Never the less I do wash my jeans occasionally and I notice the expensive ones tend not to fade or lose their shape like the cheap high street brands. Therefore lasting decades rather than a couple of years. Now the added bonus of that is you can confidently buy designer jeans second hand knowing they have many years of wear left in them. If you sort out your exact size and style, it’s remarkably simple to type into your Ebay, TRR, Vestiaire Co. or ThredUp search bar and hey presto! Your perfect designer jeans at a third of the price.
I talked about J Brand flares in this post, my other personal favourite is the Current Elliott cropped & boyfriend jean – see this post. For skinny jeans I highly rate the Neuw Denim Marilyn Vintage mid or high-rise. These jeans are a knockout akin to wearing Spanx, I kid you not! For white jeans I swear by The White Company mid rise skinny which are not skin-tight, a look I avoid in white. For sexy dove grey & black AllSaints are HOT HOT HOT! I like these with stilettos, a slinky top & basic black blazer on a girls night out. Or just as sexy for Winter, pair them with a black slim fitting polo neck & knee-high boots. Both sultry & timeless although very different looks. Another brand I’m road testing at the moment is AG, the pair I’m wearing in today’s post. I bought them on Ebay for a whopping £22 to try sizing, cut & fit! To say I’m a fan is a massive understatement, I’ve literally worn them all week! They haven’t lost their shape at all & are as comfy as tracky daks so I’m dead chuffed. Now speaking of sizing – The brilliant thing with jeans is they go up in small increments. Therefore you’re able to find precisely the perfect fit.
I’m a 28 in all but J Brand where a 27 suits me better, these translate roughly to a size 9 which actually doesn’t exist in other clothing ranges.
Buy Less, Choose Well & Make it Last
The Dame said it best and said it first so there’s no point trying to be clever. By keeping my shopping volume low but my spend high I have collected heavenly designs that pay me back year after year. The Staples I’ve described for you are the core basics which are easily added to but alone will get you very far indeed. Some other Staples well worth an honourable mention are the Black Blazer, Leather Jacket, Ankle Boots & Leather Tote.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this post as much as I enjoyed writing it? I’ve added a pin-able image for you below so you have permanent reference on your Pinterest page.
Bye for now lovelies xx
Comments ( 40 )
No Fear of Fashion
Gosh this was an extensive post… took me ages to work through it. Very commendable. It was all true what you said. Fortunately I have nearly everything mentioned in your post, with the exception of the really good white shirt and white t-shirt, but I have other stuff. I am a very lucky woman.
This post must have taken you a lot of time to put together. Well done.
Greetje
MT
Well thank you so much Greetje! Yes it did take a very long time to find all the best links although to write, was easy. In fact I had to reign myself in constantly or it would’ve been massive! I enjoy this topic & know it well so I hope others will find it useful xx
Samantha
Right… opening wardrobe, starting again at the top of your post, cross checking list with wardrobe… any gaps I find, I’ll fill via your links. Thanks Michelle!
MT
Fabulous Samantha, this is music to my ears! Let me know where I can help if you need it xx
U Gest It
Good one. Is it possible to do one for blokes👨💻
MT
Hi Robby,
What a brilliant idea!
Nancy
I can see why you can write a book!😂😂😂 But of course there is so much to tell about fashion and outfits! Great post! I still miss a few essentials! I feel a shopping afternoon coming up!
MT
Hahaha yes there is a lot to cver Nancy. I think I need a breather before starting the next installment 😉 Enjoy your shopping x
Nancy
Ha ha. You can lent mine!😂😂😂😂
Louise
I loved this post. I’m currently going through my wardrobe and having a weed out and a pair down, as well as introducing some warmer weather items from storage. This is going to be a handy guide – thank you! Lx
MT
That’s a really good point you make here about storage Louise. It’s a good idea to move a few bits out when they’re not in season & keep everything relevant. It’s so much easier styling your daily outfits without the clutter of clothes you can’t even wear! xx
Abby@Midlifecrisisnut
According to your extensive list Michelle I’m doing not too bad 🙂 The only items I’m missing are the shirt dress and a cross body bag (although my little Chanel handbag has served me as such for years when I was pushing my daughter’s pram across London). It feels very reassuring to know that somehow I managed to stay on top of things (fashion-wise) despite not being too much into fashion at all. Loved the post! ❤️ xx Abby
MT
It comes as no surprise to me to read that you have kept up Abby. You may not be that much into fashion as such but you are a very stylish lady so it must come naturally xx
Rozanne Swift
Great post! It is a really useful checklist to have. I am keen to invest in staples these days and might have to start putting away a fiver a day for that dream Chanel cross-body bag! One thing that would be really helpful in a future styling post might be shapes of top that work with cropped flares, a-line skirts etc as these can be quite a challenge (preferring looser tops as I do…) x
MT
Yes that is a terrific idea about shapes!
So cropped flares work well with most shaped tops but I especially like a boxy shape with them, such as the jumper I’m wearing here which gives the pants balance. As for A-line skirts, stick to a fitted cut so you get an overall hourglass shape. For example a fitted/cropped blazer looks super or just a simple T-shirt for a more casual vibe, pair the T with flats. Also the A-line skirt works beautifully with the silk shirt as it will hang softly giving a svelt silhouette. Everything in my list will go together, have a play around. xxx
sequinist
What a fabulous post. I am pretty good at staples, but I realised I don’t have a white shirt… probably because my large chest makes it hard to find one that doesn’t look frumpy. I’ll keep my eyes peeled now though… I also think an elegant white shirt makes such a great summery backdrop for jewellery (one track mind, here).
I have a few friends who often struggle with how to put things together in the mornings when they are in a rush to get out the door. Your suggestions for staples means that anything here can be worn with anything else on your list. I’m going to forward this post to them. Well done, clever lady! xx
MT
Oh know I feel a new white shirt purchase coming on…I’m picturing a fabulous piece of Sequinist jewellery with it 😉
MannequinsATL
Sequinist! Have you tried Cambell & Kate shirts? Fab fit for a fuller bust – take it from someone who knows. They are in NYC but easy to order online and you will get personal service!
Rose Mary
So true! Great thoughts! I total agree. Love your blog!!
MT
Thanks Rose Mary!
Jane
This is definitely an extensive foundational list. I too am missing a white shirt but I would subsitute in my classic blue and white stripe button downs as they are also classic and functional basics. I always tend to shy away form a plain white button down as they tend to remind me of working in a restaurant. So silly I know because it is just a classic white shirt.
MT
No not silly at all, I totally get that and you’re bang on substituting with your striped shirts. You get it Jane 😉
cecileparisCecile
Dear Michelle,
I want to thank you about this post that allow me to discover a new webstore (the White Company, not to name it) where I found a GREAT pair of white Superga sneakers that comes in leather. They only come in fabric in France and as you certainly noticed white fabric doesn’t stay white for a very long time…;)
I just have a comment about ballerinas: You did not you mention “Repetto” in your selection? Why? To me they are the best in terms of quality and design. I’ll be happy to read your opinion. Have a very good day!
Cecile
MT
Ah yes The White Company does Supergra, I’m so glad you found them even if by default 😉
I agree with you 100% on Repetto, I forgot to put them in only because I’ve never actually owned a pair from this brand but I have seen them & know they’re quality is high. I’ll pop a couple in my links asap! Thank you for the tip Cecile it’s a good one xx
cecileparisCecile
Thank you Michelle,
As a hallux valgus kind of feet, I am a big fan of all Repetto’s shoes! 😉
MT
It’s my pleasure Cecile!
Rachel
Fabulous post. Normal these sorts of list don’t feel relevant or useful to me but this was spot. Now I just need to find a white shirt that doesn’t feel too ‘office’. My previous was too casual and soft, my current one too smart to be appropriate for my current lifestyle.
MT
Oh wow thank you Rachel that’s an incredible compliment!
Good luck with your search for the perfect white shirt, I know that when you try the right one for you it’ll make all the difference.
Michelle
What a superb post Michelle! Well thought out, well written and stuffed with useful tips. I’m trying to make better choices when buying clothes, I’m still a bit magpie like though 🙂
Michelle xx
MT
Thanks mate, it was a long one. I hoped not too long or preachy so it’s great to hear you enjoyed it! xxx
Lizzy
such a useful post Michelle.. Everything you write makes so much sense (in every post I mean, not just this one) and what a fabulous idea to put it into a reference book. I’d definitely buy it! Thise jeans look amazing on you #justsayin xxx
MT
Thank you so much Liz I really appreciate that. I was very conscious of not making it too basic or too complicated. In the end it flowed out of my head onto the keyboard easily so I’m looking forward to writing more & getting stuck into that book. You never know, anythings possible! xx
melissa
Love this! I completely agree with your style philosophy. Having just moved to Utah (like, last week), I am trying to update my wardrobe accordingly. Great post.
MT
Hi Melissa,
I’m so sorry for the delay in my reply this comment was hidden for some reason & I’ve only just seen it! How’s the wardrobe update going?
So glad you liked this post I hope to hear from you again. Mx
passion fruit, paws and peonies
You put so much into your posts. Love all the tips and advise. That Mango shirt dress – oh wow!! I do love to keep all my items until they are fully worn. It means I have pieces over 10 years old. I sometimes try to pass them onto my daughter – but usually I hold onto them until the fashion comes back round haha! Thank goodness I have some classic staples too that always work xx Maria
https://www.passionfruitpawsandpeonies.com
MT
Thanks Maria, that’s lovely to hear. I appreciate the feedback too.
This week I’m styling my Mango shirt dress two ways for Winter – Stay tuned 😉
No Fear of Fashion
Oh gosh what a lot of work you put in. This post will be very useful to many women. I am afraid I am passed this stage. My wardrobe is indeed full of outfits haha. The red and white striped dress is so beautiful. Alas, no point in ordering it from the USA. Shipping and custom cost will take all the fun away. And if I have to return it, it is really hell.
Anyway. again: a great post.
Greetje
MT
Thank you Greetje, I appreciate that you noticed. Indeed I did put a lot of time into this post but it was a lot of fun to compile.
Mutton_style
The only thing I haven’t got is the silk shirt. There s a reason for that. I’m darn mucky. I would stain it with grease in no time. I agree with all if your suggestions. Fab list.
https://www.muttonstyle.com
MT
Oh yay thanks Anne Marie! Yes I agree grease and silk do not go well. Now that you mention it, I didn’t wear any of my silk when the children were little for that very reason. I’d forgotten actually..