Q:
With all the trends to choose from every season, what are the timeless, classic pieces I can invest in that will always be in style?
A:
Some influential women in recent history made their mark on fashion by creating wardrobe classics. The following pieces are essential for anyone's closet and will also always remain synonymous with the images of the women who defined them.
The sheath dress
Made popular by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Flatters any body type
Best color choices: black, navy or gray
How to wear it: Throw a little cardigan over your shoulders
Can be worn from day into evening by simply changing accessories
Add a strand of pearls, step into a Sabrina-heeled shoe and grab a bag to match
Wide-leg trousers
Katharine Hepburn enabled women to finally wear men's styled pants
Perfect disguise for women with thicker thighs or wider hips
Best color choices: black, navy or gray
How to wear it masculine-style: With a crisp white shirt under a looser cardigan, an elegant belt with minimal silver buckle and a pair of monk strap loafers
How to wear it feminine-style: With a sexy wool tank top and its matching cardigan tied around the shoulders, a high-heeled sandal worn so only the heel and toe show and a thin metal belt
The black turtleneck sweater
Audrey Hepburn turned a simple black turtleneck into a chic staple in the movie Sabrina
Whether you have a big or small chest, a turtleneck is flattering
Try to find one that stretches to fit your body but will not lose its shape. Hint: The better the fabric, the easier this is.
It's the perfect layering piece since it can be worn alone and will go great with just about anything
The blazer
Candice Bergen introduced the stylish corporate woman while playing Murphy Brown on TV
If you have wide shoulders, stay away from shoulder pads, but otherwise everyone can wear a blazer
The more basic the fabric and color, the more use you will get out of it
Single-breasted is more versatile and will work with most of your wardrobe
How to wear it casual-style: Over a white T-shirt and jeans, with sandals or sneakers and a sporty little bag
How to wear it business-style: Over a blouse and pencil skirt or pants and with pumps.
