6. The white shirt
Sounds obvious right? But yet how many of us have bought white shirts that we never ever wear. I know for a fact that I have about 7 and only one of them gets a good workout now and again. The right tailored white shirt is a timeless and versatile piece. Tuck into your jeans (see part 1!) and throw on some bangles and some boots or heels. Wear it out over jeans with a coloured of black blazer. Tuck it into a pencil or full skirt. Wear it open over hareem pants with a singlet. The way to go is really to invest in a tailored shirt that is long. Long is the key here. If you can't comfortably tuck it into your jeans then its too short. It has to tuck in to highwaisted pants too. The sleeves also need to be long, but able to roll up without looking ridiculous. You also need a sturdy material. Something that makes the collar stay upright and keeps it shape. You should spend $100 on a decent shirt at least. Cue, Ojay, Country Road, Witchery, Sussan, Saba and Marcs all do great ones. Or for a less expensive version try sportsgirl and barkins.
7. Ballet flats in grey or black.
The most versatile shoe that you will ever own, and the one that is the most practical and kind to your feet. Find a pair that are comfortable but chic. Grey and black are the most usable colours and go with everything. Get some with jewel or beading detail. Mums take note, ballet flats are practical, beautiful and trendy, no need to wear crocs on the school run no matter how comfortable they are!
8. One full high waisted skirt.
Think madmen meets 2011. The full skirt that pulls in at the wais is universally the most flattering thing a woman can own. Have a boyish figure? This pulls you in and gives you a waist. Want to hide hips and thighs and show off your waist. Done! Works with peep toe shoes or ballet flats. Works with tops, shirts, blazers and cute cardigans. Get one.
9. Black slim cut jeans
Another versatile piece. Once you have found the straight leg jeans in mid denim, get a similar pair in jet black. Keep them simple, no fancy pockets or designs. Black jeans look like trousers with the benefit of tightly sucking you in and generally being more flattering than the good old work pant. If you go with the straight leg pair you still have the option of rolling them up with ballet flats. Get them long, they should cover half of your fabulous heel whilst you are wearing them. Black jeans are a smarter option for work or evening dos and sometimes all they need is a sparkly top.
10. A leather jacket in black or brown.
Good leather lasts a lifetime. Go for a cut that is a classic, something that looks like a blazer or is cut like a biker jacket and it will never go out of fashion. I often wear a leather biker jacket to work! Avoid trendy designs with no collar or covered in embelishments, you will get one seasons wear out of it only. You want a jacket to last at least 5 years. You also don't have to spend an utter fortune. I own a black biker leather jacket from Sports girl which I bought 2 years ago at $299. Wear it with colour or keep it black if you live in Melbourne. Works great with the big black sunnies and all of the other items I've mentioned so far.
One last tip, as we come out of winter now is ther perfect time to pick up leather jackets and blazers. Check out all the sales and look in your local vintage stores for the ones that have already been donated to make way for summer clothes. Happy hunting.
and Spanx!
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