Do you ever notice we tend to do Style posts on Fridays? That is not a coincidence. 🙂 You’ve been hard at work all week–let’s go rest our minds with a little fantasy shopping/wardrobe makeover, shall we? If I had to go on a trip on a short notice, or had to reduce my wardrobe to just 10 items, this is what I would choose. In fact, I already own most of these: if not the actual items, then something comparable. I wear these items almost 90% of the time, without thinking, and I love getting out of the house without worrying whether orange is my color. (It isn’t, though one time I did buy a skirt that was orange on one side and purple on the other. Cray cray.) I think every woman should have these items in her closet. See if you agree!
1. Dark rinse skinny jeans
J. Crew Matchstick jeans in Classic Rinse, $115
You’ll convey the right amount of elegance and effortlessness in a pair of deep indigo, slim cut jeans. Look for no fade-out “whiskers” on the hips or thighs, which are unnecessarily widening. A solid wash is universally flattering and lengthening. Just covering the ankles is a great length for both heels and flats.
2. Heather gray tee shirt
J. Crew Vintage Scoop neck Tee in heather graphite, $29.50 (on 30% off sale now)
This is an actual tee shirt that I live in at least a few times a week, because the cut and fabric are just perfect. I have it in multiple colors but the favorite one by far is heather graphite. Unlike a white tee that just keeps getting grayer after every wear (is it just me?), a gray shirt stays gray and doesn’t age so darn quickly. Also, it’s more flattering. Just trust. Wear with indigo jeans and some jewelry and you’re so ready for anything.
3. Black single button blazer
Zara double fabric blazer in black, $79.90
Another actual item that I own and will never willingly part with. A note about Zara: I’ve had no success with their bottoms, knits, or dresses, but they make really great jackets that are cut just narrowly enough to be slimming, but not so much that it constricts you. A chic modern girl uniform (if you work in a more creative or casual setting) is just dark skinny jeans, soft favorite tee, and a black blazer like this one. You can always play with more trends but if you have that foundation down, you will look good no matter where you go (dinners, work meetings, drinks, even going out).
4. Platform round toe pumps
Cri de Coeur platform round toe pumps in rose, $75 (originally $150)
As much as I adore the look of slender, single-sole pointy toe shoes, I actually get much more use out of platform round toe pumps like these. They are much more comfortable and walkable because they have the extra layer on the soles. Look for 4-4.5″ heels and black or neutral color like these to elongate your silhouette.
5. Ballet flats
Cri de Coeur Pepper ballet flats in black, $60
Every woman has to have ballet flats, right? They look good with everything and are so comfortable. My favorite way to wear them is to pair with slightly more ‘masculine’ items like a blazer and jeans, so it balances out the femininity of the shoes.
6. The Little Black Dress
Max Studio Fine Jersey Gauge Side Drape dress, $118 (originally $198)
Every woman has to have a little black dress, yes? I scoured the internet for this unicorn that is so perfectly cut, with the right fabric (vegan-friendly jersey blend), that it will flatter literally every body type. (I have a radar for dresses that would look good on everyone). It shows just enough skin to be sexy, but covered enough to be tasteful and mysterious. The side draping is so sculptural and modern. Love!
7. The navy sweater
Ganni Navy blue sweater at Asos (viscose and cotton blend), $181
The navy blue sweater. What I actually wear is a tissue-thin v-neck but I couldn’t find any cotton blend vegan-friendly versions on the web. Look for the neckline that flatters you, but the most essential version will be lightweight, breathable, soft, and preferably bracelet-length–and you’ll wear this literally all year long.
8. Signature jewelry
KT collection Vintage Baby Spoon Silver Ring, $38
Every woman has to have a signature jewelry piece (or two or three or…). Since the weather has gotten warmer I’ve switched over my dainty gold rings to this silver ring made from a vintage baby spoon. It’s more assertive, modern, and “cool” than my more classic pieces, and that felt right for my mood this season. Whatever it is you want to express, show it with that piece that you never take off, even when you sleep.
9. Glamorous Evening Clutch
Jill Milan New Canaan clutch in red, $225 (originally $450)
Every woman has to have an evening clutch, or this happens: you dress to the nines with your beautiful dress and heels to go to that party/hot date, and you discover you have a choice between a work bag or your canvas tote for groceries. (Anyone else?) Give yourself what you deserve and go for a classic, like this gorgeous vegan clutch by Jill Milan. Doesn’t that color make you feel more glamorous already?
10. Everyday Tote
Free People Reversible Vegan Leather Tote with large zip pouch, $68
Go anywhere tote. This can carry you to the office, to the gym, to shopping with girl friends, to a weekend excursion. It’s large enough to hold your iPad or your laptop. It also comes with a large zip pouch, which can hold your makeup so you don’t keep digging for your lipstick at the bottom! How clever.
Your turn! What’s on your 10-item list? Or did I do a good job of covering the essentials? 😀
Also in vegan fashion: Eco Friendly Fabric Tencel
Interview with Jill Fraser of Luxury Vegan Accessories Line Jill Milan
