Building Wardrobe Essentials: Separates Edit

What's in This Article

Dresses will always be quintessential for an elegant and effortless look. However, if your wardrobe mainly consists of dresses, you can easily run out of outfit ideas. To fix this dilemma, let’s learn how building wardrobe essentials can give you a versatile and timeless wardrobe.

This might sound like a daunting task, but it will be easy to digest once you follow the below guide. Furthermore, these steps will help you select the best separates for your wardrobe which will provide endless outfit possibilities. Effective wardrobe essentials will evolve with your style, so you never have to worry about wardrobe boredom!

So with this in mind, let’s breakdown how to select the right separates for you!

How to Build Wardrobe Essentials

Separates could easily be classified as the fundamental wardrobe essential. When I think of style, I think of someone that can build a full outfit (top, bottoms, shoes, accessories, etc.)— not just with one item like a dress. No matter what your style is, you can use these helpful tips to start building wardrobe essentials today!

The two main separates that we will focus on is tops and bottoms! With these two building blocks, you will be able to put your own style and creative spin on it!

1. Is The Separate Timeless?

This question really applies to all pieces, but it is especially critical for tops and bottoms. A top or bottom that can be worn in various ways (and through seasons) will give you versatility and a better budget. However, if you are like me, this can be challenging if you like to consistently wear new items. But, speaking from experience, it is beneficial in the long run to invest in timeless pieces.

So what does timeless mean? This means that it has classic style that does not depend on trends.

Tops

For tops, this could include: a button-up, silk blouse, nautical stripes, an elegant tank, etc. At first glance, this might sound basic, but this is where your style taste comes in. Spice up a basic button-up with a ruffle or scallop edge– it remains a classic but adds a little fun! The same is applicable for the other top silhouettes, but keep in mind that the garment color should also remain timeless.

Bottoms

For bottoms, this could include: classic denim wash, navy or black dress pants, white denim, etc. You can add your own spin by the type of denim silhouette or getting a pair of dress pants with sailor buttons. As long as you are sticking with classic silhouettes you can have a little fun with the details!

2. Is the Separate Flattering?

The best way to pick a flattering piece is one that suits your body type! If you are not familiar with your body type or style, check out these videos here and here. If you find a piece that fits like a glove, you will see how it quickly it becomes a closet staple. In addition, it will be that one piece that you won’t want to give up!

So with that said, this leads back to point #1 that well-fitted and timeless should go hand in hand. It won’t matter much if the item is flattering, if you can’t wear through the seasons. Stick with tops and bottoms that accentuate your natural waist and draw focus away from unwanted areas.

3. Can The Separate be Worn in various Ways?

Another key element to consider is if the separate can be worn in different ways. You may have heard of this being referred to as a ‘capsule wardrobe’. A capsule wardrobe is a small group of pieces that can be mixed and matched and worn in different ways. As mentioned above, the capsule pieces should be flattering and timeless since the pieces are limited.

Building wardrobe essentials through a capsule wardrobe will ensure that you have endless outfit possibilities. Even though the pieces might not be ‘new’, they will look new through the refresh of outfits. A general rule of thumb is if the item can’t be worn in 3 ways then it’s best to pass.

4. Is The Separate Worth the Money?

And the last point is if the separate is worth the money? Just to caveat, building wardrobe essentials does not have to break the bank! There are many effective and affordable pieces that hit all the above requirements that are considered affordable. However, if you are able to limit spending on unnecessary items, then you might have a more for investment pieces. As I have gotten older, this has become a new focus point. I would love to have pieces that I can pass on or be considered ‘vintage’ one day.

Some of the pieces I would consider investments are a designer handbag, leather jacket, wool coat, luxury footwear, and timeless jewelry. (to hear more about investment pieces, check out here!)

Conclusion

By keeping these 4 questions in mind, you will be well on your way to building wardrobe essentials! Furthermore, I have linked a few items below to help get those creative juices flowing! If you have any style questions or not sure where to begin, feel free to send me a message on Instagram– absolutely love hearing from all of you!