When it comes to clothes shopping, we often get caught up in the latest trends. But to get the most out of your wardrobe, you need to start with the basics. For the office, this includes a grey or black suit, silk blouses, pencil skirts and neutral pumps. For evening, of course every woman should have a little black dress or two. And when it comes to your casual wardrobe, there are some key staple pieces as well.
Jeans
Start with a tried and true favorite - jeans. Though skinny jeans are trendy, most women look their best in a pair of bootcut jeans that is a bit relaxed through the hip/thigh and then slim through the leg. These Levi's bootcut jeans are on sale for just $19.99 at Kohl's. They even have a built-in tummy panel.
Chinos
Jeans aren't the only pants you should own for weekend wear. These Converse chinos are a terrific buy - marked down from $27.99 to just $13.98 at Target. These pants can be paired with a tee along with sneakers, sandals or flats.
Turtlenecks
& Cardigans
When the weather is a cool, a turtleneck is the perfect layering piece. You can wear this wool turtleneck sweater with jeans for casual wear or under a blazer at the office. It's just $17.48 at Target. Cardigans are also essential. Look for cardigan sweaters with unique details, such as this flower cardigan from New York & Company. This sweater features 3/4-length sleeves, antique buttons and a cluster of flowers at the neckline. This cardigan is half price ($19.95) and comes in five terrific colors.
Tank Tops
You can never have enough tank tops - wear them under jackets, blazers, sweaters or on their own when the weather cools down. This tank top from Target is just $8.98 and it comes with an attached necklace so you don't even need to accessorize.
Flats
When running errands and hanging out with friends on the weekend, put away your heels. Instead, pick a cute, colorful pair of flats. These canvas flats from ShoeSteal.com are just perfect. They slip-on easily and feature a fun striped print. These shoes are just $19.50 while supplies last. Also check out these leather moccasins for a preppy look. These shoes are marked down from $79.99 to just $40.00 at Heels.com.
-- Kori
Image: istockphoto