Spring Basics

clothing pictured above is from jcpenny.com

Reboot your wardrobe this spring. Some assembly is required, but with only the nine items above you can mix and match to create a new outfit for any occasion this season.

Keep in mind, that first purchases should stay close to plain, neutral shades, or simple patterns. And if budget allows, include a few more embellished pieces to add spice to the new wardrobe.

the checklist.

1. cardigan. neutral shades will complete any look, but picking a more vibrant color will also give some pop to any outfit.

2. long sleeve shirt. add a few simple plain or simple pattern 3/4 to long sleeve shirts.

3. simple tee.  skip the costly designer versions and add a variety to the wardrobe by buying a lot more of just cute inexpensive ones. then replace as needed.   

4. blouse. having one or two nice blouses is essential. something to combine with a skirt, or just something classy to dress up a jean outfit.  

5. skinny jean. once considered a trend, they are now a denim staple. especially one that convert quickly into a low capri, just by rolling up at the bottom once or twice. keep to darker shades of denim, for two reasons. one, darker denim can actually dress up an outfit, but still be casual all at the same time. two, a darker shade will flatter any shape.  

6. pedal pusher. also considered the modest short. pedal pushers should hit just below the knee.

7. full skirt. an a-line skirt can be worn casually with a simple tee, or dressed up with a nice blouse.

8. pencil skirt. a classic piece that should be tailored to your body. finding a pencil skirt that is meant for you may take a few tries. it maybe a simple sillouette, but there are many variations out there that are meant for differnt body shapes. if you have more curves, stay away from the stretch fabrics that cling; gravitate more towards loose fitting, but structured ones.

9. dress. a plain or simple dress, like above, can be converted into several differnt outfits just by adding a nice pull over sweater or cardigan. sprinkle on a few accesories like a belt, light weight scarf, or flower pin and "ta da" its a whole new outfit.