Happy Sunday, ladies. On Thursday, I relaunched an old blog series, Back To Wardrobe Basics. The idea behind the basic series is to spotlight timeless, essential wardrobe basics every woman should have in their wardrobe. We featured everything from trousers to classic denim to chambray shirts.
As I’ve mentioned all month, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is the perfect time of the year—the perfect sale—to stock up on those basics. And while I know that by mid-July, there’s a sense that there’s nothing left at the sale. Yes, a lot of things are sold out, but if you know what you’re looking for, there are still some great deals to be had.
So today, I’m continuing on with my basic series and focusing on 5 new items:
- denim jackets;
- the little black dress;
- blazers;
- white sneakers; and
- utility jackets.
My regular readers will know the name of the game by now: for each of these categories, I’ve found an item from the sale from a brand I know and trust. I’ve then built an inspirational outfit around that item to show you a way to wear it.
So, without further ado, let’s get back to the basics.
The Summary
Today I’m continuing to get back to essential wardrobe basics by picking my 5 more essential fall staples
For each category, I’ve put together an outfit for inspiration, sourcing all items from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
Each outfit is shoppable via a text and image-based widget
Essential Wardrobe Basics II with Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
1. Denim Jacket
Any time I put together a list of basics and/or essentials, a denim jacket makes that list. Absolutely and completely versatile, I have several jackets in my wardrobe. From dark to light washes; black and white; denim jackets work with just about everything and just about any time of the year.
Today, I’ve paired the jacket with an olive shirtdress. Set against a neutral base, my sandals bring a welcomed pop of color.
Similar outfit
Board: Seasons Knit Long Sleeve Shirtdress (Faherty) | Scrunched Canyon Denim Jacket (Cinq A Sept) | IWA Sandal (Born) | Run Around Pebbled Leather Crossbody (Kate Spade)
Shop the Board
2. Little Black Dress (LBD)
From cocktail parties to a night out on the town to a day in the office, a little black dress is absolutely essential. It’s stunning in a midi length, but an A-line shape is perfect for any body type.
The little black dress easily transitions from summer to fall. And when the temps dip down throw on a jean jacket for a casual chic look.
Similar Outfit
Board: Garment-Dyed Chore Jacket (J.Crew) | Heritage Explorer Pant (Banana Republic) | Ella Canvas Tote (Tory Burch) | Padded Slingback Sandals in Leather (J.Crew) Budget Alternatives: Utility Jacket (Walmart) | High-Rise Wide Leg Pants (Target) | Slingback Sandal (Amazon) | Canvas & Leather Tote (Target)
Shop the outfit
3. Blazer
If you woke me up from a dead sleep and asked me what’s my go-to, classic style uniform, I’d immediately tell you, “a blazer and jeans”.
Whether you prefer one or more buttons; oversized or fitted; every woman needs a blazer or two in their wardrobe. In my opinion, they work best with a pair of straight-leg or skinny jeans. Add a pair of heels and your favorite tote, and you’ll take on the world in style.
Similar Outfit
Board: Single Button Blazer (Vince) | Hoxton Ankle Skinny Jeans (PAIGE) | Crushed Sleeveless Double V-Neck Blouse (Vince) | Vandam Pointed Toe Slide Sandal (Cole Haan) | Large Le Pliage Tote (Longchamp)
Shop the board
4. White Sneakers
Every few months, I’ll devote an entire blog post to white sneakers. I still believe they’re the most underrated shoes out there; and they’ll never get the love they deserve.
I’m a classic keds girl at heart, but there are so many good options these days at all price points. Whether you choose slip-ons, runners, or platforms, pair them with a pair of ankle trousers for a casual but modern look.
Similar Outfit
Board: Swim Too Deep Turtleneck Sweater (Free People) | ‘Ab’Solution High Waist Trousers (Wit & Wisdom) | Chuck Taylor All Star Lift Platform Sneaker (Converse)
Shop the board
5. Utility Jacket
Last but not least, the utility jacket. Not quite versatile as the denim jacket, it’s still a timeless classic that transcends any and all fashion trends.
I love to pair my utility jackets with a colorful shirt or sweater. Style them with your favorite pair of denim or skirt for a familiar look. Or try wearing them with a maxi skirt for a slight boho chic look.
Board: Utility Jacket (Calson) | Jamie Mozart Cotton Sweater (French Connection) | Nina High Waist Raw Hem Ankle Flare Jeans (Rag & Bone) | Viola Skimmer Flat (Cole Haan) | Large Le Pilage Tote (Longchamp)
Shop the outfit
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About The Author
I love classic clothes and I think you always look fabulous in yours! I have everything on your basic lists and just update with maybe a new sweater or accessories.
Beth, I love the outfits you put together. I always am attracted to the bags you carry, but notice that the widget usually shows different ones. Are you able to share the specific bags in the pics?
Hi Beth
I love the essential classics that you post. Thank you.
I too am a classic dresser and love what you put together almost all of the time. With what you showed today, I can just add a pair of shoes or top and I have the look,, Have a good day.
Love all the looks Beth! Wow! Very nice. The only thing I wish you would do is when you use photos from archives, you post the date the photo was initially used.
Very nice post!
Hi Beth, I LOVE the Johnny Collar dress from Banana Republic. that you are wearing on your ‘Daily Looks’. Wondering how it fits? Does it run big? Looks wonderful on you!! Thanks!!
You wear your clothing very well and accessorize to enhance. I’ve tried the basics you wear so successfully. They are less kind to a short neck and apple figure. More comfortable without buttons and collars I’ve a bevy of lined silk and velvet kimono as well as structured knit jackets. Would you consider these to be an alternate approach to classics or less so?
Beth I love your daily newsletter and the outfits you are wearing. You really wear the well. But I am so sad that you don’t post links to the outfits you are “actually “ wearing. I know that you post “similar” outfits but they are not the same. I love your sleeveless black dress with the ruffle on the shoulder and the orange sandals you are wearing in another photo. Why do you not post links to the clothes, etc. in your photos. Do you think that you can start to do that? I wouldn’t buy the ‘similar’ outfit because I love your outfit. Thank you so much.