Last week a friend of mine challenged me to see if I could whittle my closet to 100 must have pieces and get rid of the rest. I gladly accepted and felt like the New Year is the perfect time for a closet makeover. I will keep you posted on what makes the cut, but in the mean time that got me thinking about basics.

From Nina Garcia to the Editors at Harper’s Bazaar there are countless books, magazines and points of reference to help guide you to the perfect wardrobe.  One main area that is addressed at length by all of these sources is the importance of establishing a basic wardrobe. This may seem like stating the obvious, but in a trend-a-minute world, this step can easily get lost in the shuffle. The word basic has been given a bad rap as of late, but they are truly the foundation to a great wardrobe. Some of my favorite basics include:

• White + Black + Grey T’s
• White + Black Button Downs
• Chambray or Denim Button Downs
• Black Blazers
• An array of denim (different washes colors and textures)
• Cutoff Denim Shorts
• Black Skirts in a variety of cuts and fabrics (Pencil, A-line, Pleated, Leather)
• Knit Sweaters in neutral colors
• LWD
• LBD
• Black Leather Jacket
• Black + Nude Pumps in different heights
• Black Flats
• Metallic Sandals
• Black Boots (Flat + Stacked Heel)
• Espadrilles

When selecting basics go for quality over quantity. The other pieces you select for your wardrobe will help enhance this general set of basics and take you from season to season in style. The last bit of advice I will leave you with is to have fun with your basics! While you want to steer clear of too much frill and fancy there are plenty of options to show off your unique style so be selective, feel free to interpret and always…