We’ve told you how we plan to help you jump start 2010 with chic style, top notch career advice, and even some life and nutrition tips.  Now it’s time to dive in at the foundation- Your Basics!

These are the key building blocks of your professional wardrobe. Whether you have a last minute meeting or a hectic morning, with these pieces you will never have another “I have nothing to wear” moment.  We’ve discussed some of these items in previous blog entries but here we will reiterate our top 10 must haves for your work wardrobe.

1- Black Pants
2- Solid Skirt
3- White Blouse
4- Fitted Blazer
5- Cardigan
6- Solid Dress
7- Black Shoes
8- White and Black Tshirt
9- Classic Watch
10- Tote Bag that will fit your resume

With these pieces alone you could make several outfits for the office. Here’s an example using your black A-line skirt, tshirt, cardigan, black heels, watch, and tote bag. You are instantly Workchic!

Styles shown from:
Jones New York: Black Ponte Belted Skirt, Ships 1/7, The Ruffle Trim V Neck Cardigan in grey, White Solid Puff Sleeve Tee.
Nine West: Barbe pointed toe pump, Amelia Laptop Tote
Dillard’s: Emporio Armani Classic Black-Dial Watch

Now you can personalize this outfit with a statement necklace, chandelier earrings, or swap out the tshirt for a printed blouse.  We pulled the Artemus Stone Necklace and Gemma Stone Earrings from Stella & Dot and also selected Hanii Y Brick Print Blouse as an unexpected alternative from shopbop.com.

To keep you moving in the right direction we have created 4 more looks building on your basics. Check them out and shop now for regular, petite, tall, or plus sizes.
 
 
For Petite ladies we started with a basic black dress and built up a business casual outfit from there.  Fashion cardigans can be just as useful as your basics when pairing them with neutral colors. That’s why we selected the pop of pink to highlight this wrap dress. The delicate nature of this styling called for your basic black flats as well. Cluster drop earrings and Celtic knot inspired ring completes your simple and professional look.

Styles shown from:
The Limited: Draped Wrapped Dress, Grosgrain Flower Cardigan, Cluster Drop Earrings, Crazy Eight Ring
Heels.com: Tamia Flat – Black
 
 
For Plus Sizes we used your black blazer, pumps, and tote bag.  For your personal touch of style, instead of a basic black dress we showcased one with a bold graphic print along the hem. To keep things office appropriate try a Second Base Demi-Cami underneath (newly available in plus sizes). Finish the look with teardrop earrings and black stud bracelet.

Styles shown from:
Lane Bryant: Black Knit Dress, Updated career jacket, Flame teardrop earrings
Dillard’s: Liz Claiborne New York Beaded Stretch Bracelet, Jessica Simpson “Josette” Peep Toe Pump, Fossil “Hathaway” Glazed Leather Tote

  
For all you tall ladies, we understand your issues finding pants and shirts that are the right length. So that’s where we started with your outfit. We pulled black pants and a white dress shirt to lay the foundation. Then we added on a pink cotton scarf from Silk Road Spirit, skinny belt, and copper bracelet. To finish the look we pulled back in your basic black flats.

Styles shown from:
Banana Republic: Banana Republic Womens Silky Coal Martin Skinny Pant, Banana Republic Tall french cuff shirt, Banana Republic Skinny stone-belt, Banana Republic Sandie knotted peep toe flat
Dillard’s: Fossil Stretch Bracelet
 
 
As you can see having these core pieces in your wardrobe make building outfits easier and more fun. After all, accessories always look best glinting off a simple palette.  We want you to feel comfortable and confident in your clothing. It should be an afterthought once you walk out the door. Take one last look in the mirror then get down to business. Stay tuned while we turn some or our focus to your successful career.