Style Tips // 15 Wardrobe Essentials that Never Fail

Recently, I've shared my thoughts on how to develop a personal style. Whether you're building a foundation to achieve the sense of style you can call your own or simply in need of tips on how to maximize your closet, I recommend 15 wardrobe essentials that will never do you wrong.

1. The White Button-Up

For a polished corporate look or a fresh casual outfit, the white button-up is the first item you should reach for. Pair it with a pencil skirt for work, a full skirt for an event, or denim for weekend errands, and you're good to go.

2. The Perfect Tee

You'd be surprised just how versatile the perfect tee can be. Known for it's casual simplicity, with the right accessories, it can become a part of your dressier looks as well adding the much needed element of comfort. It's worth it to add a few to your wardrobe in basic colors such as white, black and grey.

3. The Black Blazer

An item so essential that I'd almost recommend keeping it in your car for emergencies is the black blazer. Throw it over almost any outfit to add a level of sophistication that will instantly make you ready for classier occasions.

4. The Full Skirt

My personal favorite is the full skirt, especially if it's a midi. It screams elegance and compliments every body type. Spice things up by purchasing a few in prints or vibrant colors.

5. The Pencil Skirt

Similar to the white button-up, the pencil skirt is one of the most important foundation wardrobe pieces you can own. Depending on how you choose to style it, it can be worn for literally any occasion making you the most well-put-together person on the scene. Purchase in black, dark grey, or both for maximum results.

6. Distressed Denim

For off days and weekends, distressed denim is a must. It's the perfect mix of comfort and style that is always on trend.

7. The Fitted Dress

For days when you don't have the time to put together separates to build a complete look, the fitted dress will never fail. I recommend owning a few in neutral or dark solid colors, and then feel free to dabble in brighter colors and prints that suit you.

8. Black Pumps

The pair of shoes that are in need of no explanation regarding why you should own them are black pumps. If you in fact do require further information, see also "the white button-up" and "the pencil skirt."

9. Minimal Heels

In any neutral – black, nude, or grey – minimal heels are always a good idea. For an evening event, night out, or even to dress up a casual look slightly, these shoes are a must-have.

10. Lace-Up Heels

Every wardrobe is in need of statement pieces. However, when it comes to shoes, try to find a pair that stand out but are still versatile. Lace-ups in a vibrant color such as cobalt blue or red certainly do the trick.

11. Black Flats

I'm a lover of high heels, but if I were to admit which shoes get the most mileage, I'd definitely say my black flats. These shoes have saved my life so many times. Keep a pair of black flats with you ALWAYS.

12. The "Everything" Bag

A girl's best friend is her everyday handbag (or as I like to call it "the everything bag"). It's the closest to her, it keeps all of her personal information, and she never leaves home without it. Even when she swaps it for a statement clutch or another bag, the everything bag still keeps everything else she didn't need that particular day because she know's she'll go right back to it. Best friends forever.

13. The Statement Clutch

For evenings out or for special occasions, the statement clutch is necessary. Since it's not something you would accessorize with every day, it might be a good idea find affordable options at online boutiques or your local trend stores.

14. Large-Faced Watch

A watch that can turn heads but can also be worn with nearly any outfit is the large-faced watch. I prefer stainless steel, but any large-faced watch with a neutral band or metal of your choice will do.

15. Sunglasses

For the cool girl appeal, or at least to keep the sun out of your eyes, sunglasses are a no-brainer. Stick to the basics or have fun with shapes and colors - just be sure to always have a pair handy to complete your daytime look.