The Essentials of a Well-Balanced Wardrobe
Own basics from the five "clothing groups," and you'll never ask "What should I wear?"
More Basics
Shown, left to right:
Black turtleneck: Cashmere is worth splurging on―you get more warmth with less bulk.
White button-down: A fitted one will get the most use, because it's easier to tuck in and looks neater when left out.
Long-sleeve black T-shirt: A surprisingly sophisticated layering piece, this works well under a dress shirt―or even a dress.
Cardigan: A neutral shade offers the most versatility; a longer style that hits at the hip is the most attractive cut.
Short-sleeve white T-shirt: White tees become unwearable quickly―so skip the designer versions and buy a bunch of cheap ones, then replace as needed.
Black pants: Get the most out of these pants by selecting a style made of an all-season fabric, like tropical wool or viscose.
Denim jacket: A darker wash and a slimmer fit look more polished.
Short-sleeve black T-shirt: The best short-sleeve length is about 1/2 to 1 inch longer than a typical cap sleeve―it shows just the right amount of arm.
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