Build Your Work Wardrobe Around 5 Basic Pieces That Define Classic According to Christina Donahue @ http://www.suite101.com/content/essential-wardrobe-items-a61763
Take the frenzy out of getting ready and build your wardrobe around classic pieces that form the framework of any well-rounded closet. Remember fit, form and function.
Effortless chic does not have to be an oxymoron. Let your office wear reflect your good judgment and sound taste. These 5 classic wardrobe staples are the perfect balance between fashionable and industrious.
A Crisp White Shirt – Always a winner in any setting, a white blouse is the difference between manic Mondays and scoring that promotion. Buttons and cuffs do not matter; the most important thing to remember is fit. There should be no gapping of the buttons and the sleeves should settle nicely, covering the wrist. Never be afraid to go one size up, no one but you sees the tag. Invest in a classic white non-iron shirt from Brooks Brothers.
A Black Skirt Suit - The little black dress of the office this staple is for that business lunch with the client that matters. Keep form in mind. Sit in the suit, walk in the suit and take a lap in front of a mirror that offers a 360-degree view.
The jacket should easily button up and the skirt should not require any pulling or sideways sitting. Kasper’s suits are always in style and affordable because after all you are dressing for the job you want not the paycheck you have.
A Navy Blue Blazer- Nothing says “I am here to work” like the classic navy blue blazer. Couple it with red, white, and khaki pieces and light up the office. Fit is essential. Your correct size allows that the jacket can be buttoned and does not hug your seat. When buying a blazer off the rack invest in your style and get it tailored.
A Pencil Skirt- Pitching that profit-laden idea? Stride out in a pencil skirt. A pencil skirt in an office appropriate color such as charcoal grey or navy blue should always hit at or slightly below the knee. Check the form. It should not bubble out at the hips. If you are standing still the kick pleat should lay flat not gap. Talbot’s pencil skirt complements any physique and comes in women’s sizes.
A Cashmere Cardigan- A cashmere cardigan rounds out the wardrobe of a woman with classic sensibility. Function determines the fit and form here. If you plan on wearing your cardigan over a camisole (with built in support, please) then a tighter fit is allowed. If using it as a sweater you do not want the dreaded gaps, go one size up. Make sure your sleeves allow for easy movement. They should hit beyond the wrist. If you are looking at your hand palm side down the sleeve should fall where the joint of the thumb begins.
