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Fashion classics

Friday, March 20, 2009

Question:

What are the fashion classics? I'd like to add them to my wardrobe. Karen, by email.

Answer:

By investing in a good set of fashion "classics" you will find your wardrobe much more versatile and user-friendly. It’s worth your while to spend a bit of time and money finding quality, classic pieces that fit you properly. These items can be worn season after season, worn together for a timeless look or mixed up with the season's more directional trends.

White Shirt

An item that can take you from corporate to casual. Try Herringbone (02 9212 2911) or Baubridge and Kay (1800 818 629) for high quality shirts.

Tailored 3 Piece Suit

The 3 piece suit consists of a pencil skirt, trousers and a jacket. Finding a suit that fits properly can often seem daunting, however starting at Myer (1800 811 611) or David Jones (13 33 57) could be a good idea. They carry a large number of styles and sizes. Cue (1800 060 706), Ojay (03 9827 4244), and Sportscraft (1800 002 477) also offer suits at affordable prices. Don’t forget, you can always have a suit altered professionally by a tailor or dress maker for the perfect fit or hem length!

Jeans

A good pair of denims is one of today's most worn items and can be dressed up or down to suit almost any occasion! In our February issue we tested out some of the best jeans styles around. Our favourites included: Classic cut Levis from Just Jeans (03 9420 0200); Young innovative EDC jeans by Esprit (02 8586 0444); Comfortable stretchy jeans from RM Williams (08 8259-1000); Plus Size jeans from My Size (03 8420 1000); and cute and cropped from Blazer (03 9427 1466). If you shop around to find a pair that is comfortable and fits well, you’re guaranteed hundreds of wears from them.

Little Black Dress

It is always good to start with a basic wardrobe colour such as black, brown, grey or navy and accessorise to suit the occasion. Add a splash of colour with shoes and a scarf, add a touch of glamour with sparkly jewellery and an evening bag, or simply add sophistication with pearls. Some stores to try for the perfect LBD: Feathers (1800 800 670), Simona (1800 654 116), Witchery (1800 640 249), Howard Showers (02 8344 0999), George (02 9698 7233), or Leona Edmiston (02 9331 7177).

Trench Coat

A must have for the cooler months. A trench can be worn over almost anything and will instantly add a touch of Audrey to your wardrobe. Wear it with jeans, suits, skirts, or even by itself! Try David Lawerence (1800 100 366), Jigsaw (1800 621 757). For an evening look try a satin trench for and instantly sleek modern look: we love Carla Zampatti (02 9264-8244).

Accessories

Classic must have accessories include - black court shoe or ballet - try Midas (03 9670-7111), or sambag www.sambag.com.au. For a tote bag - try Longchamp (02 9232 5173), and a sparkly evening bag - try Olga Berg (03 9419 6711).

YOUR SAY: Do you have any fashion classics you can't live without? Share with us below...


User comments
I've had a classic Burberry trench coat that I purchased in London in my '20s more than 30 years ago. It looks as if I bought it yesterday and still gets ohhs and ahhs from peope who see it for the first time as it did way back in the 1970s! That's investment dressing!!
A well made leather bag of the best quality, in a decent size to carry my wallet, cosmetics etc, is my piece of essential choice. Along with a great pair of leather ballet flats, this sees me through daytime most of the year.I spend as much as I can afford on the bag as it will serve me well and look fantastic.
One item that I find is an essential piece to my waredrobe is a fine knit, long black cardigan. It goes with everything!

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