10 Classic Pieces Every Woman Must
Have in Her Wardrobe
...and designer splurges you should invest in
By Stephanie Gray
It wasn't easy to come up with only 10 essential pieces for your wardrobe, but we've narrowed it down to the most classic, timeless and versatile items that will take you from day to night, season to season. Since these pieces will never go out of style, they will enhance whatever trends you're wearing right now. For inspiration, read about which designer's first created these pieces and what celebrities, both past and present, have embodied these essential items. The Pantsuit
1. The Pantsuit
Sixties designer André Courrèges was one of the first designers to put women into pants, although he is known for dressing up women in minis and go-go boots in his space-age designs. But it was Yves Saint Laurent who made dressing in trousers acceptable and popular. It's hard to believe before his version of the pantsuit in the late 60's that women were expected to wear only skirts. Today the pantsuit is a staple in a woman's wardrobe. Versatile enough to bring you from the office to cocktail hour, you can get maximum usage by breaking apart the pieces. Investing seriously into a well-tailored, quality suit is a wise decision. Today's pantsuits are anything but manly and can actually amp up the femininity of your look. Just look at some of the hot Hollywood women, past and present, donning this attire and we're sure you'll agree.
The Trench2. The Trench
Thomas Burberry designed the first trench coat in 1901, as a raincoat for army officers. Since then this raingear has become synonymous with class and style. Think Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's, Greta Garbo who famously owned this look and more recently stars like Angelina Jolie and Jessica Simpson. Beige and black are among the most popular colors but designers have come out with many more vibrant patterns and colors to choose from; a rainy day will never be dreary again.
3. A Perfect Pair of Jeans
Jeans are the ultimate clothing item because they can be dressed up or down, go from day to night and once they're worn in, become the easiest clothing item to throw on without a thought. With an endless selection of cuts, styles and colors, there is an array of choices to your perfect fit. This is often the major hurdle for most women: too many choices. But patience is a virtue my dear, because like finding the right man, the only way to find the best pair is to try and try again. Once you find the right cut, buy two pairs so you will always have one to wear. A dark wash boot cut is universally flattering and a rise that hits just below the belly button is best. On average designer jeans go for about $200. If you can afford it, don't think twice about buying that amazing pair that makes your butt (and body) look fabulous.
4. Black Pumps
Carrie Bradshaw - our favorite Sex and the City shoeaholic - will agree that black pumps are one of the essential shoes to have in your closet. They will likely be your staple shoes because they go with everything. A good pair of shoes is a smart investment because cheap shoes fall apart faster due to lesser-quality materials. A thick, not stiletto, heel will also last longer from the wear and tear of hitting the pavement and is easier to walk in. Whether you choose a lower heel or prefer a few more inches, just make sure your feet are actually comfortable in them.
5. White Shirt
A truly classic item that is always stylish whatever way you wear it. From your basic white-tee, to a tailored collared shirt, to ruffles and lace detailing, a great white shirt is necessary in your wardrobe. A crisp tailored shirt is your best option for versatility, as it layers well under sweaters and blazers, over t-shirts and tanks, but is also strong on its own. This clean look is easy to achieve, with minimal effort and a few great accessories, the only hard part is choosing which white shirt to wear.
The Big Bag 6. A Big Bag
Over are the days of carrying a tote, purse, and gym bag all at once. Instead it's stylish and convenient to haul around all of your goods in a single oversized bag. Designers are coming to the rescue with a vast amount of selection for every taste. Whether there are tassels, studs, or extra clasps, it should be easy to find a bag to suit your style. This look should be kept for daytime shopping, traveling or to the office, as it is too overpowering for most get-togethers and night outs. Current favorites of celebrities include Balenciaga, and Louis Vuitton. Other classic favorites include Hermés and Tod's.
7. Pencil Skirt
Introduced in the 50's by Christian Dior, the slim silhouette of this skirt enhances every woman's figure in all the right places. Lengths and shapes of skirts will continue to change over the seasons, but a pencil skirt will always remain classic and flattering. Marilyn Monroe's hourglass figure accentuated this look with her curvaceous body. When selecting a pencil skirt, the hem should hit about an inch above the knee. A neutral tone is a great basic, but don't be afraid to experiment with bright colours like yellow and purple to add that extra punch.
The Pencil Skirt 8. Chic Shades
The best way to make a statement is to wear a pair of great shades. Sunglasses have become synonymous with celebrities in our culture. They give off an air of mystery and glamour and are guaranteed to get you noticed. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was one of the first celebrity women to wear the current shades now seen on every trendsetter in Hollywood - oversized sunglasses. Aviators (dark lens with metal frames) which originated from the popularity of use among pilots, are a favourite classic. Aside from the practicality of protecting your eyes from the harsh sun rays a great pair of shades will finish whatever look you're going for. Tom Ford has recently come out with a line of must-have shades, and so has Juicy Couture with Shades of Couture.
9. A Clutch Purse
Accessorizing your evening outfit is easily topped off with a clutch purse, but don't limit this sweet item to night - clutches are also stylish when you're out and about in the daytime. For the evening, look for something with more glitz, like jewels, buckles, and metallic. Basic black, leather, and chains (think: Chanel) are completely classic and will work anytime. But the best clutches have something that makes them unique - whether it's a vivid colour, amazing material like crocodile or satin, or a stand-out feature like a huge clasp - choose something that suits your personal style because that is always trendy.
10. The Little Black Dress
No must-have wardrobe list would be complete without the little black dress. Every woman should have one that they can throw on at the last minute and look beautiful in. This dress can easily be a large investment since it has such longevity and versatility. Find one that suits your particular body type. The best little black dresses are independently distinctive. Whether this is in detailing - like lace, jewels, or ruffles, or how the dress is cut - such as a deep v-neck, or halter, it should accentuate and flatter every part of you. Coco Chanel knew best when she designed the first little black dress in 1926. Today when you step out in your LBD, remember CoCo's words: "Look for the woman in the dress. If there is no woman, there is no dress."
3. DONATELLA VERSACE, while a little flamboyant herself, is still one of fashions most loved divas. Born in Calabria Italy, she graciously took over her late brother Gianni Versace's already flawless design house. By following in his footsteps, and having just as much passion for the industry as her brother, Donatella has become know for her sexy yet elegant designs. 
8. DOMENICO DOLCE & STEFANO GABBANA. Here are two household names. I'm rather sure that almost every woman and man in the fashion world has some piece by these two geniuses. Every woman who wears D&G can be sure to feel sexy and confident. They both hail from Italy, and are known for making the "stars look like Stars". 