Does this scene sound familiar? You're standing in front of your closet, surveying your clothes and can't for the life of you find anything to wear. Or do you struggle to find the right top to accompany a new colorful skirt or a bright statement necklace? It can be easy to throw on a trendy new top and go, but sometimes you just need a classic piece for those days when you're running short on time or can't seem to pair two things together. With these wardrobe essentials on hand, your day-to-day dressing will be infinitely easier. Click on each picture/caption for our shopping recommendations. 

 

1. A Plain White Tee

                         
KatyLoo's Boyfriend Shirt by Umgee                    Madewell Cotton V-neck

Is there anything more versatile? Layer the perfect white t-shirt under a sweater, tuck it into a skirt or pants, or let it hang loose for a casual day. Nothing is more essential to your closet than this trusty staple.  

2. A Long Pendant Necklace

      
       Leather Tassel Necklace                                 Oval Pendant                                               Tribal Song Necklace

The navel grazing necklace can accessorize virtually any outfit. Loose tops, fitted shirts, dresses, blouses and even outerwear such as blazers or trench coats. Keep it neutral for consistent wear or bright and shiny for a needed pop of color. 

3. A Long Cardigan

       
         KatyLoo's Knit Cardigan                              Forever 21 Cardigan

Layer a slightly oversized and neutral colored cardigan on top of your spring dresses, rompers or tank tops to get you through those cooler mornings and breezy evenings.

4. Chambray

         
                KatyLoo's Denim Tunic                                    Old Navy Chambray Shirt

Denim on denim is one trend that is not going away anytime soon. Consider chambray a neutral topper to pair with jeans, work pants and embellished skirts. Add a statement necklace or big earrings to increase the wow factor.
 

5. The Striped Shirt

             
            Free People Striped Tee                            KatyLoo's Piko Top                          LL Bean French Sailor Shirt

How many tops look sophisticated with a pencil skirt, chic over distressed denim and effortless with slouchy jeans? The striped shirt can be mixed with solids, florals, plaids or other striped pieces. 

6. A Nude Sandal

 
                   Steve Madden Laceup Sandal                                Sam Edelman Wedge

Make your legs look like they go on for days with a nude shoe. With bare legs or ankle skimming pants, a skin-toned sandal is a classic way to accessorize your freshly manicured toes. 

7. Dark Denim 

               
                   Articles of Society                                              Loft Bootcut Jeans

If you own only one pair of denim (or own several, but prefer one special pair, like myself), make it a dark wash. Not only are they super slimming, they also work for a wide range of occasions. Wear with boots, sandals, heels or wedges. Cuff the hem to show a little ankle on skinnies or hem them to graze the floor with wide-legs.

8. Ankle Booties

                   Steve Madden Beverly                                                        Dolce Vita Kara

The beauty of ankle boots is that they are seasonless. Wear with bare legs in the spring and summer or with leggings and skinny jeans in the fall or winter. Any color or style works for these versatile shoes. 

9. Statement Jewels

 
       KatyLoo's Disco Days Earrings         KatyLoo's Turquoise Beaded Choker          KatyLoo's Layered Bracelet Set

Add any of these oversized accessories to your closet basics for a bold and fresh look. Dress up a classic top with a bright necklace or shiny earrings and add a wrist full of textured stones for a modern accent.

10. Little Black Dress

             
         Nordstrom Crepe Dress                 KatyLoo's V-Neck Shift Dress                    Calvin Klein Sheath Dress

No item is more of a blank slate for accessorizing and styling than the little black dress. Find one with simple design elements like a v-neckline, fitted waist or floaty skirt to keep pulling this staple out time and time again. With the right accessory, you can make the LBD appropriate for black-tie or less formal gatherings. 

Visit www.katyloo.com for some of these classic pieces. Thanks for stopping by!

~ KatyLoo