Six Pieces To Effortlessly Elevate Your Wardrobe

In Part 1, which you can read here, we rounded up the clothing essentials you’ll need to pave the way for a wardrobe that is adaptable and versatile. On the back of Part 1, we’ve drilled down and come up with a few additional (and often overlooked) pieces that should be finding their way into your wardrobe as well. These key pieces will really see your choices amplify, trust us on this one!

The Layering Piece

Textured sweaters add interest to classic shapes, and are a huge trend for 2014.

Investing in a quality natural fibre sweater (cashmere is the ultimate favourite) is always a great idea. Not only does cashmere look and feel incredible, having a classic cashmere sweater on-hand means that you can instantly cope in a cold snap without compromising on style.

A refreshing alternative to basic natural fibre jumper is a colour-block pullover (muted grey and tan work well). This is a refreshing and inventive twist on the classic and it will provide you with an excellent layering piece.

Floppy Hats are back

The 70’s style floppy hat is one of the easiest ways to add cool to your outfit.

A cursory look around fashion websites and glossies will tell you that 70’s style floppy hats are back in a big way (that’s if they ever left!) Spotted constantly on trend-setters from the Olsen twins to the Kardashian clan, big floppy hats are instant cool, and it definitely pays to have one.

Surprisingly, finding a 70’s hat that suits you isn’t as difficult as you may think, however DO shop around for one in pure wool felt. You’ll find these to hold up better than most, and do not “over-flop” like some of the cheaper versions. Black is of course a winner, however a classic cream or beige with a black grosgrain band will instantly give you some Brigitte Bardot style insouciance. (And that’s not bad!)

Want to catch up on Part 1? Check it out here: WARDROBE 101: SIX CLASSIC PIECES REALLY WORTH OWNING

Leopard Print

Ridiculously chic…. Turning an otherwise plain outfit into something that purrs!

The mere mention of leopard print might have some women holding their hands up in horror but it needn’t be so! One of the biggest points about making fashion work for you is to be prepared to think outside of the box and break a few of your own rules.

The key to wearing leopard print – or any heavy print for that matter, is not to overdo it. If nervous, wear your leopard print with subtlety (think a belt, or a pair of leopard print shoes, or clutch) and contrast it against a solid one or two colour backdrop. You’ll be surprised how well it works and how pulled together you feel.

Black Maxi Jumpsuit

The black maxi jumpsuit can be as glam or daytime relaxed as you want. Exhibit A – Rosie H-W.

Black maxi jumpsuits, whether they’re modern slim leg or palazzo-style, are another worthwhile wardrobe staple. A maxi jumpsuit not only has a quintessential “fashion look” but wearing one makes you feel like a whole different person! The maxi is the perfect blank canvas to show off glam accessories and great shoes.

In order to wear this look well, definition and balance on the silhouette is a must. Team the jumpsuit with a belt that is wide or thin, or ties at the waist. The belt is another flexible way to layer personality to the overall look.

Crisp White Shirt

An Olsen Twin working the white shirt well. Sausage dog an additional bonus.

For a sharper look that means business, call upon the crisp white shirt. This clean and effortless-looking item has been a style staple for decades, yet it will make you look like you are in control of your sense of style – in an instant.

There are countless ways you can incorporate the crisp white shirt in your wardrobe, from tucked into slim leg jeans, teamed with a pencil skirt, or worn boyfriend-style with any bottoms (sleeves rolled up.) Pull long hair back into a chic ponytail or chignon for the ultimate in laid-back classic dressing.