3 Pieces in Your Wardrobe Worth Spending Money On

As a stylist, I've been asked the same question over the years - what are the pieces in your wardrobe worth spending on? With all of us being on a budget nowadays, it makes sense to understand where you should invest, and where to hold back. In my opinion, I spend on versatile pieces that you can mix-and-match into multiple outfits.

This whole philosophy of re-use is something very close to my heart (as it is the basis of my book The Terrific Thirty: 30 Pieces, 1000 Outfits). For those that haven't had a chance to grab the book yet, I thought I'd share 3 of the 30 pieces in the book that you can wear in multiple ways - making them worth every dollar!

(Note: all illustrations are directly from my book The Terrific Thirty)

A pair of nude wedge heels

3 Pieces in Your Wardrobe Worth Spending Money On

3 Pieces in Your Wardrobe Worth Spending Money On

The neutral shoe, like a nude heel, is always a great place to start.

First, they go with everything.  Plus, it gives you an instant lift by lengthening your legs thus making you look instantly slimmer!

16 01 30 Nude wedges 3 ways

16 01 30 Nude wedges 3 ways

I've chosen a patent nude wedge with minimal details, so it won't date and will see you through season after season. The patent adds a polished look for dressier occasions, yet the wedge keeps it casual and comfortable enough for weekend wear.

A black blazer/jacket

3 Pieces in Your Wardrobe Worth Spending Money On

3 Pieces in Your Wardrobe Worth Spending Money On

A black blazer is everyone's best friend (or look for navy / charcoal if you can't wear black).

The key is to find a blazer that fits you like a glove and flatters. The keys are to:

  • Look for it to fit and shape you nicely down the back (instead of looking boxy & baggy)

  • Avoid sleeves that are too loose or long (a more fitted, 3/4 sleeve tends to look younger and is less "office" like)

  • Stay away from anything that looks like it should only be worn as part of a business suit

16 01 30 blazer 3 ways

16 01 30 blazer 3 ways

I love a blazer to dress up jeans, or over a dress or skirt to keep the look professional, or try it with casual chinos or tailored trousers.

Leather Tote Bag

3 Pieces in Your Wardrobe Worth Spending Money On

3 Pieces in Your Wardrobe Worth Spending Money On

If you have to choose just one bag to invest in, start with the black leather tote.

It is both functional and attractive, and never goes out of style. The tote is roomy enough to hold all your daily essentials, while the leather is a durable material that also makes your outfit look ultra-chic.

IMG_9782

IMG_9782

Keep the bag simple - overly trendy totes with prints all over them are not easy to pair with existing wardrobe pieces, and keep an eye out for a high quality material + finish so that it lasts you a long time.

All of these pieces have served me well over many, many years and even more outfits! When they are simple, classic pieces that don't date, you'll find that you are only limited by your imagination as to how to wear them!!!

Have you joined us in Not About Size yet? Click here to find out about my new online style program to learn how to become your own personal stylist!

What's on your list of "must-have essentials"?? Let me know in the comments area down below!

Until next time!

wendy-signature

wendy-signature