Which Wardrobe Essentials Should I Own?

What are the 10 basics you should have in your closet?
—Guile, Downey, Calif.

What a terrific question! Some pieces never really go out of style or wear out their usefulness. With me on this is stylist Felix Mercado, who suggests:

1. A fitted blazer. Everybody can use one at one point or another, but smart dressers know that it can be used about a jillion different ways—over a fitted summer dress, khaki capris, jeans, the works. Invest in a nice piece if possible; Martin + Osa has a couple on sale for more than 65 percent off.

2. A pencil or straight skirt. "It's a definite must-have for business or a fun night out with the gal-pals on the prowl, so as long as you ditch the blazer and pair it with a sexy top and nosebleed stilettos," Mercado says.

3. A nice pair of jeans in standard blue or...

4. white. "A dark wash gives the impression of a trouser with the comfort of denim," Mercado advises.

5. A crisp white shirt. "A tailored collared white shirt never goes out of style," Mercado says. "It's always been understood to be part of a woman's classic wardrobe."

6. A wrap sweater. Make it fleece and double the cozy. Mercado and I are both totally in love with the equally fierce and friendly version over at Lucky Brand.

7. A serious evening dress. You only need one, but make it good. And please, no black. How about a warm orange sweeping orchid of a creation by Joanna Mastroianni?

8. An eco-friendly tote. Take it to the farmers' market. Take it to the beach. Take it to work. How can anyone not love this turquoise satchel from Big Buddha? It's only 70 bucks!

9. An LBD. So many women fall back on them, but Mercado suggests shaking things up just a bit by embracing a luxurious fabric like cashmere. Longuet even has such a dress that is one size fits all.

10. A leather jacket. Doesn't matter what kind, as long as you'll wear it often and it makes you feel sexy.

That's it. Now get your fashion on!

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