The essentials, style edition. It’s great fun reading other writers’ lists (e.g. here and here) of their ten or five essential wardrobe items. I am list-compulsive myself: it keeps that analytical part of my brain quiet so my creative side can wander 😊 . Like most women, my essentials change as my style is re-defined, my body changes, and time marches on. For the last couple of years (not counting all those stay-at-home pajama days) my essentials have included:
- A denim skirt. I can wear one every day, and they’re more comfortable than most jeans. Every top I own can be worn with a denim skirt, from a funky Keith Haring tee to a silky button-down blouse. I have two denim skirts now, a midi by MANGO that I love love love, and a slightly edgy one, with asymmetric waist, by Boyish.
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- Black, gray, and Breton-striped knit tops. I wear one almost every day, with that denim skirt or with straight-leg, cropped jeans. I like them soft and fitted, or with a bit of texture and oversized. The neutrals are great for my muted coloring, and every season I add one colorful tee. To make any tee more memorable, add some accessories – like a delicate pendant.
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- Pendant necklaces, like the ones I find here. My tastes have changed over the last decade and I now prefer more delicate necklaces and charms. I wear one almost every day, in silver or gold tones, to elevate the tee-shirt look to a more feminine polished one. Etsy is a great place to score a vintage piece.
![](https://i0.wp.com/notdeadyetstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/il_794xN.2896970878_9mj8.jpg?resize=455%2C417)
- Shoes or boots with attitude. I don’t wear proper running sneakers or Crocs (no offense to those who love them!). I am, however, crazy for “athleisure” shoes, like these high tops, and low-cut baby pink tie-ups. I just bought some fab Fly London peep-toe sandals for Spring, via the resale site Poshmark. Love the vintage vibe.
![](https://i0.wp.com/notdeadyetstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Screen-Shot-2021-03-14-at-11.42.54-AM.png?resize=455%2C287)
- Essence lipstick in “On The Catwalk“. It’s my signature shade, a deep mauve that brightens my face without screaming “LIPS!”, or fading away to nude. So sad that it’s now discontinued, but I found a decent duplicate: Bobbi Brown Soft Berry. It’s a touch lighter but still hits my color zone.
“Living with only the bare essentials has not only provided superficial benefits such as the pleasure of a tidy room . . . it has also led to a more fundamental shift. It’s given me a chance to think about what it really means to be happy.
-Fumio Sasaki
I’d love to hear about your Essentials, and how they may have evolved over the years.
Stay safe, wash and wash and wash (your hands), xo
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Wear what you love, always. Here are some goodies to browse:
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Beautiful selection! Love your essentials, must have items. Thanks for sharing.
Great suggestions! Denim skirts are stylish and versatile!
xoxo
Lovely
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I am quite a few years older than you so my basics are a little different . I find three quarter boat neck tees more flattering to the arms and neck and fabric midi skirts great with low heel boots or pumps with interesting belts for spice.. I have liked items you have showcased as I always enjoy seeing your chic joie de vie fashion finds as adding a new young piece is very rejuvenating to the wardrobe and spirit..
Good morning Joan and I hope you’re feeling well! Thank you for your kind comments. I love a midi skirt with low heeled boots, I think it’s always graceful. Stay safe, xx.