Kelly Beaudin Stapleton, 39

Malvern, Pennsylvania

Jackie Kennedy’s pared-down elegance inspired Kelly to build her own wardrobe out of a few simple elements — sheath dresses, polished pumps, a strand of pearls. “With that combination, I’m never at a loss for the right outfit,” says Kelly, a lawyer for the U.S. Department of Justice. And given the demands of her job (filled with last-minute meetings and functions) and caring for her six-year-old daughter, that’s important. “I can get dressed in a moment’s notice,” she says, “and transition from day to night with ease.”

To achieve Kelly’s classic style (shown, left):

Tommy Hilfiger black cotton-blend dress, $159 (available in September), Macy’s, 800-289-6229 for locations.

Maxx New York bag in suede and patent leather, $185, Lord & Taylor, 800-223-7440 for locations.

Echo silk scarf, $34, www.echodesign.com.

Iridesse 18-inch pearl necklace, $500, www.iridesse.com.

Mikimoto 30-inch cultured-pearl necklace, $4,340, 888-701-2323.

(Shown, center:)

Raymond Weil watch in stainless steel and diamonds, $995, Bloomingdale’s, 866-593-2540 for locations.

Stewart Weitzman patent-leather heels, $245, Saks Fifth Avenue, 800-347-9177 for locations.

Delman flats in patent leather and flannel, $275, www.delmanshoes.com.

(Shown, right:)

Ellen Tracy triacetate-blend dress, $298, 800-925-7979.

Martin+Osa cashmere cardigan, $168, 415-974-1893.