Mix clothing classics for fresh new looks
After listening to your CDs over and over again, even your favorite music can start to sound a little stale. But select shuffle on your iPod or six-disc changer and suddenly those same old songs (yes, even Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl”) can sound a whole lot fresher. Just like those best-loved tunes, the fashion classics in your closet – blazers, jeans, oxford shirts – could benefit from some mixing up. And if you add in a few unique numbers (wide belt, feminine blouse, embellished cardigan), you’ll create looks that are surprising, easy to pull off and, no doubt, destined for heavy rotation. Plus, by making the most of what you’ve got on hand, the combinations here will expand your wardrobe without costing you much money – or taking up more closet space. Now, isn’t that music to your ears?
Winning combinations
Go from business lunch to book club to baby shower in a range of looks created from just a handful of pieces.
Monday: Cardigan + camisole + skirt
Ease into the week with a soft sweater that contrasts with the crispness of a pleated skirt and virtually eliminate those manic Mondays.
Tuesday: Dress + T-shirt
Layering a long-sleeve T-shirt underneath a sheath dress adds a bit of casual cool and protection from overly air conditioned spaces.
Wednesday: Button-down shirt + skirt
Ditch the staid suit and pair a pinstriped oxford with a flirty kick-pleat skirt instead.
Thursday: Jacket + blouse + camisole + black pants + belt
Wear this outfit when you’re feeling overscheduled – PTA or boardroom meeting by day, dinner and drinks by night. When cocktails call, simply doff the tweed jacket.
Friday: Cardigan + Button-down shirt + black pants
A playful cardigan can brighten up career staples – black pants and a pinstriped oxford – making them perfect for dinner-and-a-movie nights.
Saturday: Dress + blouse + belt
A lacy blouse and velvet belt help transform a standard sheath dress into eveningwear.
Sunday: Jacket + T-shirt + jeans
The tweed jacket that worked so well with black pants and a delicate shirt during the week can be dressed down with cuffed jeans and a black tee for the weekend.
The classics
These tried-and-true pieces have been around the block while managing to keep a low profile. And that’s actually a good thing: You can wear them multiple ways in one week and no one will be the wiser.
Black dress
Anne Klein, $325
In a word, it’s indispensable. This little black dress, with a chic column shape and a nipped-in waist, is made of a soft wool blend.
To buy: Select Bloomingdale’s, (866) 593-2540 for stores.
Black pants
The Limited, $69.50
A great pair of black pants gets votes for most popular, most likely to succeed and best-looking. This polyester-viscose pair, featuring a flattering bootcut style, definitely measures up.
To buy: (800) 756-4449 for store locations.
Long-sleeve T-shirt
Gap, $16.50
It’s easy to relegate the T-shirt to weekends, but when it’s in a neutral color, like black, it can travel in sophisticated circles.
To buy: www.gap.com.
Camisole
Tart, $45
A behind-the-scenes performer, the camisole adds extra coverage under jackets, sweaters and sheer tops. This one, with adjustable slim straps, is made of soft jersey and feels great next to the skin.
To buy: Madison, (323) 651-4003.
Jacket
Bcbg Max Azria, $258
The fitted tweed jacket can be mixed with a wide range of fabrics and colors. The black, white and brown flecks coordinate well with earthy color palettes.
To buy: Select BCBG Max Azria Boutiques, (888) 636-2224.
A-line skirt
Nave, $220
With charming schoolgirl pleats and buttons on each hip, this gray A-line skirt looks both professional and relaxed. It’s exceptionally well-made, and the viscose-and-wool fabric has a fluid drape that doesn’t cling.
To buy: Nave, (212) 274-1255 (available this month).
Jeans
Old Navy, $29.50
Jeans with a dark rinse are easy to dress up. Thanks to straight-cut legs, this pair can be cuffed for more casual looks. They’re so well priced, you can get one pair hemmed for heels and another for loafers.
To buy: www.oldnavy.com.
Button-down shirt
Uniqlo, $19.50
A cotton-polyester button-down is always a classic, but when it has a feminine cut, aided by darts at the bust, it’s a classic you’re sure to grab again and again. Don’t be afraid to mix the subtle black-and-white stripes with colors and even prints.
To buy: www.uniqlo.com.