2013 Wardrobe Essentials
Back in September when I wrote about my desire to further simplify my wardrobe, this was the collage that I put together to illustrate. I didn’t choose these pieces at random; over the past few months, versions of these have become my go-to’s for their versatility, comfort and style.
First up, the Clothing MVP’s:
Skinny Jeans
Always a bit behind the curve, I hopped aboard the skinny jeans train just about the time many of you are hopping off and leaving them behind for boyfriend or flared cuts. But I love how versatile these are, and that (partly thanks to the cuffing trend) hem length is mostly a non-issue. I haven’t had to sacrifice comfort either. My favorites, these organic cotton skinnies from Eileen Fisher (also available in grey), are soft, lightweight and have enough stretch that they’re comfortable walking, standing, bending, and even sitting at my desk most of the day.
Asymmetrical Hem Tunic Sweaters
This cut seems to be particularly flattering, especially over slim pants or skirts, and I found myself reaching for these soft, asymmetrical tops frequently. The diagonal line draws the eye up and down and adds a bit of visual movement. I hope this mini-trend continues into 2014. The tunic in on the right in the picture above is still available here.
Long Soft Jackets
When in doubt, put a jacket on it. A jacket is my favorite shortcut to make simple, casual separates look pulled together. It’s been tough to find longer, non-boxy jackets the last several seasons. I’m hoping that pendulum swings soon; I’d love to add one or two non-black options to my wardrobe. Even so, this was a go-to style for me this year. My Eileen Fisher knit jacket from last year continues to be a workhorse, and I recently added this Michael Kors ruched sleeve boyfriend jacket, a moderately priced option that definitely punches above its weight.
Next up, the MVP’s in the Accessories category. What were your go-to styles this year? Any new favorites?
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You had a great year and you so often inspire my wardrobe decisions. Skinny jeans just amaze me…I am so glad I tried them on…I would not have thought they would flatter my body, but they do and it is really all I prefer to wear. I am looking forward to seeing what you bring us in 2014! Happy New Year!
Maybe I will give skinny jeans another go. I usually put them on in the dressing room and take them right off since they look ridiculous on me. I think I am more of a flare/bootcut gal since I am definitely going for long legs and a slight 70s vibe. Maybe if I could find the right pair of skinnies I could try tucking them in the boots, which is another look I usually think is not for me. Great post. Looking forward to your take on accessories. I love my scarves more and more, whether they are H or not! XO, Jill
You look so great! I remember back to your Sweet Spot post of — what? several years ago? –and I see you hitting it time after time after time.
For me, skinny jeans and boots are the most consistent elements, and from October through March or April I rely heavily on a few good coats in fairly classic cuts and fabrics as well as several cashmere scarves and a dark beret. Although I don’t always think first of that outer layer, in many ways those pieces constitute MVPs as well. . . .
Skinny jeans are my everyday basics I like wearing mine with loafers or ballet flats. I like how slimming skinny jeans are on my short stature.
You’ve got a great workable wardrobe and the styles you wear fit well and flatter your figure.
Look forward to your accessory post.
I love the look of skinny jeans, but as a pear shape, have found the offerings quite poor. Levi’s probably makes the best fitting skinnies for a pear shape, but haven’t found anything else that doesn’t make my hips look 5x’s their size .. hence my love for boot cut 🙂
Monica
Skinnies have become a classic staple, in my opinion. Your collection was well put together and are the best pieces for a great vlasdic wardrobe. You look great in your capsule!
Happy New Year!
Love these pieces, and all the great combinations you have shown, I *hope* skinnies are around for a few more years, as that’s the only silhouette I own!
I have mostly skinny jeans myself. Today I put on a pair of Levi’s boot cut, which I’ve always liked, but they just feel out of style these days (still wearing them though, to the grocery store at least!). I like the skinny jeans trend, but wish ankle pants were less prevalent. I just can’t warm up to that length. I got around it by ordering a pair of ankle length jeans from Banana Republic, but in the Tall length, which made them about the right length for my 5’7″ self.
—Jill Ann
Love you choices, especially those asymmetrical sweaters–gorgeous. Warmest wishes for 2014 ~ Susan
I am fond of skinny jeans and jackets as well!
http://www.fashionhaunt.com
First of all, let me say, you’ve just never looked better! You’re dressing is impeccable! I totally related to the original post and I think you’ve nailed it. Well fitting basics with some statement pieces offer a well put together look that is also interesting (shouldn’t style be interesting? :)). I find that my wardrobe is shrinking as the years go on…and yet I’m loving my closet more than ever! Out with the “stuff” and “fillers” and in with the treasures and pieces that get me excited. A common theme among women I know is a closet bursting with clothes and nothing to wear. I suggest the same thing to all of them – start getting rid of stuff. Be brutal! And what you’ll end up with are only things that you absolutely love and the clothes will show you a myriad of different ways they can be styled! Of course, staying with a color palette helps, but I’ve found that this, also, comes naturally. I feel like I could stand in front of most of my friends’ closets and be able to tell the color that they gravitate toward just by what jumps out at me from a gaze. And then, there you go, that’s your palette! Anyhoo, you got me all excited with this post….can’t you tell!? Ha! Happy New Year and many hugs girly! Serene
Happy 2014, dear Susan.
Love and sunshine ALWAYS in your life
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Perfect list!
Would you have any capsule wardrobe for an all inclusive vacation?
Hi Darlene, I’m not sure what you mean by “all inclusive”. Does this refer to one of those resort destinations?
Yes. I’m having a real problem trying to decide what to pack!!!