New Year, New Closet: The Essentials Part I
As far as fresh starts go, there’s nothing wrong with a little closet editing in the first few weeks of the shiny, brand new year. You don’t need pockets full of cash to completely overhaul your wardrobe. Coco Chanel was said to have only 3 suits in her armoire: black, navy blue and a taupe or neutral color.
For those who want to have a new style or new direction in their fashion aesthetics, I direct you to get back to the basics as listed by the Tim “The Godfather of Fashion” Gunn. Every closet must have:
1) Basic Black Dress
Ace’s Note: Not to be confused by the infamous “little black dress,” but a dress you can accessorize and transition from day to evening wear.
2) Basic Black Slacks and Skit
Ace’s Note: If budgets allow, I would also advise to buy a one neutral color slacks and skirt as well. Be it gray or taupe, your choice. However, put in the extra few $$ and buy a pair of quality slacks. For those who are thin at heart, buy pants that fit well. Don’t try to squeeze in pants that are a size too small and that pull at the hips. Buy pants that suit your silhouette and highlight your figure. Coco would be horrified if you do otherwise.
3) A Pair of Jeans
Ace’s Note: If you can splurge a little, buy one light and one dark washed pair. However, just like the slacks, make sure they fit your frame nicely: not too tight, not to loose, and age appropriate. Under no circumstances are you to waste money on a denim skirt. You might scoff at this now, but remember it was a fad at one point. And fads, like pimples, have a tendency to surface now and again.
4) Basic (Black & White) Buttoned Down Shirt
Ace’s Note: I prefer the three-quarter sleeves to the full length ones. But that’s the beauty of these kinds of limitations, you can purchase the style or cut of the shirt that suits your individual personality.
It’s also ok to stray slightly from these basics. But don’t venture too far off. There’s a reason why these items are classics, because you see them reoccur in fashion in form or another. They are timeless.
Stay tuned for Part II (!)
