Fashion 101: Start with the classics

Ok, so you've realized you want to be more fashionable, you've defined what sort of styles you like, and you want to build a great wardrobe - how do you do that? More importantly, how do you do that without cashing in your 401K? 

Start with the classics. Every wardrobe needs a great foundation - basic pants, blouses, skirts, etc. to get you started. If that sounds boring to you, don't worry - we're going to add color and personal flair later, but if you don't start out with a good foundation, nothing else will work right!

So, let's have some inspiration to get you started!

(From Pinterest)

(From Pinterest)

(Yes, also Pinterest)

(Yep.)

Each of these lovely ladies is/was known for taking classic, tailored pieces and adding their own flair - and they always look classy! 

There are a few classic pieces that every woman should have in her wardrobe. You'll find this list, or some variation thereof, on thousands of fashion blogs and advice columns, so this is certainly nothing new. But here is what I think every woman should own in 2012. 

1) A pair of fitted black pants. 

2) A classic white shirt and 3) a pair of perfect-fitting jeans. 

4) A year-round, wear with everything LBD. 

5) A pretty silk blouse and 6) a pencil skirt. 

7) A toss-on-over-everything cardigan. 

8) A pair of comfy flats and 9) a pair of walk-able heels. 

10) A long-sleeved striped sailor shirt (i love these so much!).

11) A few basic tees in neutral and bright colors...

12) And last but not least, an all-purpose, wear everywhere jacket. Here's where you get to start to add your style! You could go more casual with a classic denim jacket, a bit edgier with leather, big-city business with a trench, or more preppy with something tweed. It's up to you! Just pick something that you could wear with most everything in your closet. Personally, I'm a huge fan of leather jackets, but I really love my broken-in, worn-forever GAP jean jacket, too!

Ok, ready, set, shop! Don't get districted by trends just yet, just stick to the guide and find some wear-forever basics to get you started. 

Lesson three: the classics can be classy! Start with the basics when building your wardrobe.