We’ve all been caught with nothing to wear at some point or another. It’s immensely frustrating to be rushing around at the last minute trying to piece together an outfit for a fabulous bash. The simple solution is to keep a few fairly classic dressy basics in your wardrobe. That way you’ll be spared from disappointing shopping sprees, and prepared for last-minute invitations. 

Dressy basics to keep on hand:

• Little cocktail dress which doesn’t need to be black.
• Beaded top that you can wear with slacks, a skirt or a suit.
• Dressy pants in either satin, crepe or velvet.
• Dressy skirt that’s preferably a-line and knee length for maximum versatility, in either taffeta or raw silk.
• Dressy shoes in mule, sandal or sling-back.
• Perfect clutch that’s small and says something about your personality.
• Dressy wrap that’s a similar fabric weight to the dress or top it will accompany.

The next time you shop and fall in love with dressy items that you think you won’t need – think again.  Build a capsule of dressy items over time and don’t get caught! This can be cost effective, organized and less stressful in the long run.

Grace Kelly-inspired little black dress and fancy satin sling-backs from Bloomingdales.

Gold clutch from Nordstrom.

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