Building A Work Wardrobe With Quality Basics

When it comes to work pieces, it's important to have quality staple pieces that you can rely on. I have quite a few and I wear them for both work and play. It's important to know that just because I'm using the word quality it doesn't mean that you have to break the bank.

When it comes to finding quality basics, material is key.

I'm not saying that when you see crepe you must buy it. I'm just encouraging you to feel the material and see how it looks on. For example I usually opt for a crepe or a silk-like material because it has a luxurious look to it. Materials like that make dressing for work that much easier, because you have the star player for the look. All you need to do it pick a neutral to go with it, and you're all set.

Quality Basics Can Come From Anywhere

You can find a good basic from all over, and not necessarily the stores that you would think of. I have found some great long trousers from Zara and Kendall and Kylie by just browsing. Most people think that you have to shop at just one store, but a lot of my favorite pieces were found by looking around.

Always Try The Piece On

Repeat after me, I should try this on. If you only shop online like a lot of professionals, you are doing yourself a disservice. Just because it says it's your size doesn't mean it always fits that way. Even with stores that I know my size, I still try on because guess what everything fits differently.

Trust Your Gut

Don't trust anyone...just kidding. What I'm saying is that you should trust yourself when trying on clothing. If it doesn't feel right don't buy it. Something better will come along. I have done my fair share of buying clothing that I thought was cute, but didn't fit. Like the white ruffle sleeve top. It was too tight when I bought it, and still is today. And no matter how many obnoxious movements I do, it still wont give.

I also cannot tell you the amount of times I've been mislead by a sales clerk. Mind you, I am skeptical about people recommending clothing in general. So many times I've been assured that "these pants are so long, they will definitely fit you". And guess what, they weren't and they didn't. I am not saying don't trust sales clerks because they are amazing and know the brand better than anyone. I am just reinforcing that you should trust yourself and your thoughts the way that clothing fits. You know your body best. After years of shopping for my overly long proportions, I can eyeball something and know if it will fit or not.

Look At The Inseam

This goes for whether you are tall, regular or petite, look how long the pant is. The word inseam is foreign to so many people, but it's one that should be part of your shopping vocabulary. Inseam is the number (in inches) of how long the pant leg is. Is it only 30", then wear it with flats, 34" opt for a heel. This will help you better gage how to wear it.

My Go To's

When it comes to work basics, I shop at brands that dress longer women. I need clothing that caters to tall women because not all blouses or pants are made for a 6 foot frame.

PIECES YOU NEED, WHERE TO GET THEM

J.Crew Tall

The Perfect Shirt (my size: 4 Tall)

my favorite go to white blouse (comes in tall, regular and petite)

The J.Crew Perfect Shirt paired with their Lookout High Rise Denim.

The Regent Blazer (my size: 4 Tall)

I am a blazer fiend and this one is my favorites. Also can we talk about the STRUCTURE. I love a good structured fit. (comes in tall, regular and petite)

Pencil Skirt (my size: 0)

So, I'm kind of over pencil skirts, but when I was into them these were the ones I wore. (comes in regular and petite)

Ponte Skinny Pant

My all time favorite skinny work pant is the Pixie pant, but sadly they discontinued it. This is the most similar to it. (comes in tall, regular and petite)