10 Fashion Essentials Every Businesswoman Should Own

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Do you wake up in the morning to survey your overflowing closet and declare, “I have nothing to wear”? Fashion is supposed to be fun. But dressing your self every morning like a responsible adult can be a burden.

The trick to overcoming this daily headache is to master the basics. We set ourselves up for failure when we go out and impulse buy whatever sparkles or looks pretty. Trends change. Smart businesswomen know to invest in pieces that will serve as building blocks for their wardrobe every year.

Here are a few pieces that will work in every woman’s closet, according to Tim Gunn, on-air mentor to fashion designers on the reality television competition Project Runway and chief creative officer for Liz Claiborne. Start with these basics in your closet and build your wardrobe up to match your personality and style.

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The wool Origami dress. via J. Crew

Basic Black Dress

The little black dress remains a fashion staple because of its versatility. Dress it up for cocktails or tone it down with a cardigan for work. This is a great item to transition from day to night.

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The leather detail gabardine trench coat from Burberry

Trench Coat

The classic trench coat works for a trip to the grocery store or a concert. If you want a more modern look consider a fun color that pops against your hair or skin tone.

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Brooks Brothers’ plain-front Caroline fit dress pants.

Classic Dress Pants

A business basic every working woman should own. Dark navy and black gives you an instant look of authority and power. Bright colors and patterns allow to you to bring a little fun to your office look.

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H&M’s knee-length pattern skirt with sequins (for a little sparkle).

Skirt

Give yourself freedom to be fun and girly at work with a cute skirt. You can pair it with a crisp white shirt or a blazer for a more conservative look.

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Banana Republic’s lightweight blazer.

Blazer

A blazer is a great way to bring preppy class to any outfit. Keep it conservative with slacks or a skirt. Or dress up a T-shirt and jeans on Casual Friday.

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Thomas Pink’s Stevie Shirt.

Classic White Shirt

This is a must have. The classic white shirt never goes out of style and adds polish to jeans, skirts, and dress pants.

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DKNY’s Runway stretch linen color block system dress.

Day Dress

Day dresses are more laid back than the little black dress. Choose a style that you would feel comfortable wearing to work rather than a cocktail party.

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J. Crew’s Collection Featherweight cashmere cardigan in windowpane check

Cashmere Sweater

Spend the money and invest in a cashmere sweater. Unlike cheaper alternatives, it won’t pill. Given the versatile nature of this garment, you want something that will not wear quickly from frequent use.

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Seven for All Mankind’s Savannah Welt Pocket Trouser pant

Good Pair of Jeans

With companies relaxing their dress codes, a good pair of jeans is becoming a requirement for businesswoman. Keep your looked polished by shying away from distressed denim and opting for darker washes.

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Forever 21’s neon leopard print tank

One Indulgent Trendy Item Under $20

Just because we’re talking basics, doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun. Buy an item that shows you’re aware of the trends of the moment, but don’t invest too much. In fashion, one day it’s in, and the next it’s out.

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C. Cleveland covers professional development topics and entrepreneurial rebels who blaze their own career paths. She explores these stories and more on The Red Read, Twitter (@CleveInTheCity) and Facebook (/MyReadIsRed).

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