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Picking the Right Classic Pieces for Your Wardrobe

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at George Mason University chapter.
If I had a dream closet…I would like to think I could pin point exactly what I would fill it with.  Jackie O inspired gloves, an orange Birkin and a Missoni caftan are just a few of the pieces I would have on display. Although there are no limitations in my dream world, as a college student I am snapped back into reality shopping more mainstream than couture.

Throughout the decades trends have made consistent comebacks i.e. the harness boot, the cropped blazer and the fringe bag.  Not every person is going to latch onto said trends without some hesitation and few will resist them in whole. Classics with a twist are a sure way to look put together with your own personal touches. To instantly transform your wardrobe in order to make it both college and professionally appropriate, update it with investment pieces that will withstand the test of time.

It is not to say what you already own is not fashionable enough.  This is simply an updated list to what you may or may not already have.  Here are my nine pieces to add to your closet…

1. A boyfriend blazer > the jean jacket

A boyfriend blazer can be paired with everything from dresses to jeans.  Not only is it an alternative to your jackets, it makes anyone looked put together and can transition your outfit from day to night.  Pick a neutral such as grey, black or camel.  Cotton blazers can be worn year round and depending on whether you prefer cropped or longer cuts, or can invest in both; throw your blazer on with everything to instantly feel tailored.

2. A statement necklace > that Tiffany charm

In Middle school everyone and their mother owned either the oval or heart shaped iconic Tiffany charm. Now that we are in college it is time to branch out. Tiffany’s will always have a place in my heart but for day-to-day jewelry,but try a statement piece. Invest in a necklace, bangle or ring that can be worn daily but is significant to you whether it be the color or style. Turquoise, coral, layered chains, whatever it may be switch it out and don’t leave your dorm room without it.

3. A pencil skirt > the mini skirt
We all remember those denim Abercrombie skirts that helped define our wardrobe at one point.  Those days have passed and it is now time to start dressing more grown up like.  Boring black and grey are not your only options. Having a pencil skirt in either tweed or linen will come in handy sooner rather than later.  A single pencil skirt can be worn with sweaters, tees, shells, blouses, tights, loafers, heels, booties, basically anything aside, from flip flops and a tank top (which is never a good look to begin with).


4. A cross body  > the clutch
My biggest problem with clutches is that when I go out on the town with my friends and Britney comes on, I know I will be dancing and the last thing I want to be doing is holding all of my things.  I am not a small bag person, and if you are, I envy you.  So for those of us who want our hands free to hold a beverage of choice or to lock hands with the fratastic cutie across the room, the cross body is your new go to bag.


5. A nude slip >showing your goodies
I am all for confident women who dress in form fitting clothing but for the sake of your dignity florescent lights; buy a nude slip.  It can be worn under almost anything especially if it is strapless I promise it will not disappoint.


6.  A white cotton button up > a basic t shirt
There is nothing more classic than a white button up and blue jeans– a la Katherine Hepburn.  Investing in a well-made tailored shirt can be the ultimate way to look chic.  Pair with riding boots, a scarf in magenta or pewter and any bottom, You will be the epitome of class in your crisp white shirt.


7. A nude pump > black stiletto
Black is supposed to go with everything, but it can also be a bit drab.  Nude high heels make your legs look longer and what girl doesn’t want that?  A nude patent leather heel will be your ultimate go to shoe in any time of need.  They do not have to be super high or break the bank.


8.     A camel coat > down north face jacket
Oh the North Face. We all have them. But I can guarantee that if you show up to a party, a play, or dinner at your significant other’s house and you are wearing a zip up fleece, you will regret it.  Camel coats at any length are an investment piece that you will continue to rock throughout decades.  A classic wool blend with make you the bell of the ball as well as keep you warm on those frightful winter nights.

9.     A little navy dress > Black frock
Little Black Dress.  We have it nailed in our head from an early age and continue to fall back on it time after time.  As we progress in our wardrobes and life, we need to grasp onto the idea of mixing it up.  Navy is actually my favorite neutral.  Think one shoulder with a bib necklace.  And please do not be afraid to wear black and navy together.  Black sheer tights, navy mini, and black booties with A LOT of jewelry can instantly make you the knock out in a crowd of identical dresses.  

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Tess Mackey

George Mason University

Tess is a senior at George Mason University majoring in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations.  She has been addicted to fashion since she was a child frequenting the streets of New York City with her mom, and collecting copies of her favorite magazines Instyle andVanity Fair.  Along with HerCampus, she is a style guru for CollegeFashionista.com, and she is beginning an internship this summer in journalism.  When she is not writing, she spends her time working at a local high-end local boutique and consignment shopping with friends.  
Sabel is a senior at George Mason University majoring in History and Economics. Although she'd rather stay a student forever, she is excited to see what the future brings her in the fashion industry. Besides her endeavors at HerCampus, Sabel is a Style Guru for CollegeFashionista.com writing the Style Advice of the Week column for Mason. Adding to her busy schedule are her duties in her sorority, volunteering for Operation Smile, contributing to the social media world, feeding her soda addiction, shopping at J.Crew and coloring everything around her pink. And yes, the last three are major priorities in her book.