Nice Black Slacks
A good pair of black slacks are always a good idea. Not only are they super smart, they are super chic too. These are the perfect alternative to jeans when you need to dress up a look or be more professional. You don't have to stick with the basic, bland office style pants either. You can vary your style up with tie-waist trousers or cigarette pants.
Topshop is known for having classic pieces that are of high quality. These black cigarette trousers are no different and are a great staple to add to your wardrobe. ASOS has great slacks as well, and these black pants offer a tailored look while being high waisted and skinny at the ankles. The Gap features many great styles that fit a wide range of body types. These high rise boot cut pants range from size 00 to 20.
Diamond Studs
Whoever said diamonds were a girls best friend wasn't lying. Diamonds are simple, classic, elegant and can match virtually any outfit. You don't have to pay hundreds of dollars for a pair either. You can find alternatives to real diamonds that still help you achieve this great look. Just make sure to take care of them.
Banana Republic offers a beautiful pair of stud earrings that are a bit on the bigger side to really draw your eye in. One positive review on the site says "These earrings are super pretty and look expensive. The can be worn for most occasions and every day." Pandora offers a beautiful square pair that has incredibly high ratings, and can be set in gold, rose or silver. One review stated: "I purchased these earrings recently and absolutely love them! They are absolutely gorgeous - and the size is PERFECT! I have double pierced ears and needed a smaller, classy style earring to go with my diamond studs - and was hoping they were the perfect size to not overbear my second diamond earrings. Together - they are absolutely gorgeous! You never disappoint!!!"
Crew Neck Sweater
The perfect crew neck sweater works with everything from a pair of old boyfriend jeans for the weekend to a pleated, feminine skirt for a night out. If you find one you like, get one in every color. If you are someone that is regularly in a hurry, get ones that have minimal patterns and are in neutral colors so you don’t have to put much thought into how it will work with the rest of your look.
For those that want the most classic sweater, Loft is the store to go. They have a wide range of sweaters with different colors and textures. Lane Bryant is a good option for those that want a classic look, high-quality clothes, but in a larger range of sizes. This fringe crew-neck sweater is a fun piece that is effortless.
Classic Leather Belt
Unless you're still in high school, you are well past the stage of hiking your pants up every step you walk or using a shoelace as your belt. A classic belt will boost with your average jeans and T-shirt look by giving it that extra touch of femininity, while also providing functionality. Getting one in black or another neutral color will help ensure you will get a ton of use out of it. However red belts are also always in style and can bring some color to a bland look.
Revolve has a huge range of leather belts, from thin matte pieces to large, bedazzled ones. You will be able to find one that fits your unique style with ease. Lane Bryant offers the most classic piece, which has no extra fuss so that it looks perfect with any outfit. Kate Spade offers a similar one, however it comes with a cute little bow design on the loop for that extra pop.
Perfect Jeans For Your Body Type
One thing that almost every women dreads is shopping for jeans. It can be incredibly difficult to find a pair that hugs your curves in all the right places, while also being the right length, color and style. Brands each have different sizing guides so finding jeans that are the right size can also be a daunting task. Finding the right pair is so critical, though, because they will last you for years and match almost every blouse you already own.
One great place to start looking for jeans is at a large department store, like Dillards. Larger stores like these will offer a wide range of sizes, styles, shapes and washes because there are several brands available. With some digging, you can find some that really work for you. If you are a bit on the younger side, checking out Charlotte Russe for jeans is a great option. They offer six different cuts of jeans from sizes 0 to 26.
Sleek Pair of Flats
A simple flat is a jack-of-all-trades shoe and lands the right look for anything from a board meeting to a grocery run. They are easy to slip on and off, making them incredibly functional as well. Flats with a pointy toe look more professional, while a rounded toe can look fun and flirty.
Talbots is the perfect place to look if you want quality flats that will be sophisticated enough for the office, but also still modern and chic. The shoes are high quality so they will last for years despite the rough wear and tear you will put them through. For a huge range of style, Shoes.com has over 1,000 different flat styles so you are bound to find a few pairs you really enjoy. They also offer free shipping without a minimum purchase order.
Classic Blazer
Even if you don't work in a proper office, every woman should have at least one blazer that is a flattering to her silhouette. Blazers can be used to dress up a nice pair of jeans, or can be used when having a formal job interview. If it doesn't fit right off the bat, this is where your trusted tailor comes in.
If you want a blazer that will last you a lifetime, consider spending the extra cash to get a quality one from Ralph Lauren. They offer a wide range of colors and styles, so you will be able to find one that fits your body correctly. Ann Taylor is also a great place to shop for blazers, and they have great options for the workplace.
High-Quality White Tee
Start your outfit off with a clean slate. The staple white tee is versatile, cool and a piece that’s you can wear any day of the year. It anchors statement pieces like printed shorts, colored denim and layers perfectly under sweaters. Treat yourself to one that is of higher quality than you would find at your local Walamrt. It's a piece you will wear over and over again, so you want it to last for many washes.
American Eagle has a range of soft, pretty white tees with different sleeve lengths and collar types. These tees are affordable but will stay bright white. Anthropologie is a more luxurious brand, but the price is worth the quality. They too have many white tee options in various styles so you can find one that is perfect for your body type.
Little Black Dress
This wouldn't be a clothing staples list without adding in the little black dress. This dress is a no-brainer. A little black dress doesn’t have to be a tight one you would wear out to a club. Rather, it should be a relatively simple piece that you could transition from day to night in, and feel comfortable wearing to both work and a nice dinner. Being able to dress it both up and down will help you get the most use out of this classic option.
Ann Taylor is a favorite of those who prefer a more preppy style, and their little black dresses match that mold as well. They are conservative while also intriguing. With a wide range of hem lengths, sleeve lengths and collars, you will be able to find one for you. For those that want something a little sexier, Nasty Gal offers a wide range of dresses that are more body tight and fashion forward. They also have great sales that help you find the perfect deal.
Button-Up Shirt
The button-up shirt always strikes a balance between looking casual and polished. Depending on where you need to be, you can dress it up or dress it down. You can tuck it in to a comfortable pair of jeans to look sleek for a nice brunch, or wear it with a pencil skirt to look professional in a work setting. Find one that fits you correctly. The buttons should lay flat over your chest and stomach, without pulling or being too loose.
Apricot is a growing popular brand that offers a great selection of button-up shirts in tons of great colors, patterns and styles. From flannel print to sheer chiffon, these blouses are great options to add to your closet. For a classic denim color button down, Lilly Pulitzer is the way to go. This piece is made from 100 percent linen, so it will be comfortable to wear all day. One positive review stated: "The fit is great and true to size. Great for spring and summer. Another winner from Lilly!"
Comfortable Pair of Pumps
A classic pair of black or neutral pumps will never fail you or your outfits. They’re the perfect shoe option for your 9-to-5 and to happy hour, or a weekend date night with jeans. You need to try on multiple pairs so that you can find some that you can wear for hours without being in pain. Pointed-toe styles are pure magic when it comes to making your legs look longer and leaner.
Express is known for their great clothes, but they also offer a wide selection of heels as well. They have options with thicker heels, shorter heels, and straps around the ankle. They also offer free shipping and free returns so that you can find your perfect fit. If you want a great pair but are on a budget, consider looking at what options TJ Maxx has. They have options from classic brands but at a discounted price.
Knee-Length Skirt
A knee-length skirt is versatile enough to be work-friendly and can be worn in more formal settings. At the same time, it can be worn out to lunch with friends and look polished and sleek. They can be paired with a classic white tee, crop top, or nice button down depending on the occasion.
ModCloth offers a wide range of midi-skirts that are flowier to hide any parts of your body you might not be incredibly comfortable with. These skirts can go from size XXS to 4X so there is something for everyone. Lord & Taylor also had a great selection of knee-length skirts. From professional pencil skirts to fun and flirty denim pieces, there is bound to be a few that you cannot resist.
A Cozy Cardigan
Sometimes, you want to make a statement that isn't as bold as a blazer. For a look that's all about style and being laid-back, add a cozy cardigan to your collection of essential clothing items. A nice cardigan can comfort you on the busiest of subways and the loudest of restaurants and bars. Even if you're just lounging around at home, you may as well feel super comfortable doing so.
ASOS has cardigans that are perfect for any occasion. There are thin ones that could be paired with your favorite strapless summer dress, and large fluffy ones that are perfect for those winter months. Francesa's has a wide range as well, but our favorite is this cozy light tan scoop cardigan. It would pair great with jeans and a white tee.
Sturdy Pair of Sneakers
If you want an edgy, fun look for dinner but don't really feel like going down the subway steps in heels, throw on a pair of sneakers. Be mindful of the style different sneakers have while you shop. Some may be perfect for the gym but not exactly right for everyday wear, and vice versa. In reality, you should get a good pair of both. As a busy woman, you never know when you need sneakers to keep up with your crazy schedule.
Reebok has been a popular choice for the busy mom's out there for years. They can be both comfortable and stylish. This pair offers flexweave technology, so it keeps your feet cool in hot summer months. Vans are typically thought of only for skaters, however the look of their classic black pair is perfect for just about any casual outfit. For a quick trip to the grocery store, these can be thrown on without any extra fuss.
Large Tote Bag
One question men have always been mystified by is what is in a women's bag. We somehow bring every essential so we can always be prepared for any situation. This is why every woman needs a large tote bag to lug around. This bag should be large enough to carry your essentials and sturdy enough for everyday wear and tear.
L.L. Bean has classic bags that are incredibly durable. For the price, it simply cannot be beat. It comes in a range of sizes and colors so you can find the perfect one for your needs. One positive review stated: "I absolutely love these bags, and I own several, and I've given several as gifts. I'm a teacher, and they make perfect book bags." Kenneth Cole also has several tote bag options that are a made of more luxurious materials. It ensures they are sturdy products while also being fashionable.
A Well-Fitting Everyday Bra
Investing in a good bra can completely change how you see yourself. You could be wearing your favorite outfit in the entire world, but if your bra straps are slipping or you're in back pain from the band, you won't be having a good time. Fix your fit. You'll be surprised just how much of a difference this makes. Get the right bra in a color that matches your skin tone, so you can wear it all the time. Then, switch it up and buy the same one in fun colors and get a strapless one, too.
Lane Bryant has a sister store, Cacique, that offers plus-size bras at affordable prices. They have bras specifically made for every day wear, but also provide more intimate pieces and sports options. This is great if you are larger chested. Bare Necessities offers just that, the absolute necessities. Their website is great because they have an expert bra finder so that you can skip the guess work.
Delicate Necklace
You've owned your share of statement jewelry, but a gold necklace with a simple pearl is the kind of thing you can wear every day for the rest of your life. When you are running around day to day, you don't want to have to worry too much on what jewelry you have that will match your outfit. These small necklaces will be easy to put on without having to think twice. You can shop for more affordable brands that still offer 14k gold without breaking the bank.
If you want something a bit unique, Urban Outfitters offers a beautiful gold moon ray stone necklace that would match any outfit. In addition, they offer several layering necklace options. If you are on a budget, consider checking out the necklaces that are offered at Forever 21. Many of their very simple necklaces also come with matching earrings such as this one.
