The super basic wardrobe

The super basic wardrobe

• Three black skirts
• A jacket that matches your business skirt (read: suit)
• Three pairs of pants -- denim, evening, stretch
• One very well-cut, lightweight cardigan in your favorite colour
• Three tops -- a crisp white blouse, a lined sleeveless shell top, a leotard
• Three pairs of quality shoes -- flat ballet slippers or loafers, a pair of boots (your call on the style), and a pair of black evening shoes
• One little black dress
• Three bras -- one to run in, one that looks pretty under white, and one that makes your breasts look twice their natural size

Of course you also need a good overcoat, sneakers, and enough cotton underwear to last a week. Some women have their own uniform for living, and it might just be jeans. Period. The fewer places you have to go, the less clothing you need, but don't presume that if you're unemployed you don't need one pair of smart shoes and a simple shift dress. This could be the outfit that lands you your next job.

Once you start to build a wardrobe of simple, flattering basics, think carefully about fabrics, laundry care, colours, and value -- or cost per wear. Here are some shopping ground rules for a wardrobe that doesn't bite.

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