WIW: The Power of Basics - YouLookFab Forum

I am finally realizing the power of basics in my wardrobe and today's outfit really demonstrates that IMHO.

I'm wearing a pair of simple fluid black trousers paired with a heavier knit tank. I've added fairly simple black insulated shooties and a black leather belt. These items fit how I want them to and provide a classic background with an updated silhouette. I'm then free to top it all with one of my fun jackets - and today I chose my cobalt with black leather trim cropped moto.

I will also always be a blazer girl - I have many and am always on the lookout for another fab fitting option. I wear one almost every day at work and on weekends, even pop them on with a tee and jeans. They are the backbone of my style.

When I head out the door today, I'll be wearing my knee length red Lands End puffer coat 'cause it is -40 Celcius with the windchill…brrrrr…….

So what do you think of today's outfit? Are you also realizing the beauty of basics? As always, all comments/suggestions welcome.

Moto jacket: Vince Camuto
Tank: Sears
Trousers: Attitude by Jay Manuel
Shooties: Clarks
Puffer: Lands End
Handbag: Danier Leather

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10 years ago

Neel

Veteran

I am loving the pop of color over a column of another of late. And this is no exception. That jacket is seriously stunning! You look beautiful and put together.

Anonymous

Really nice, Shannon!

El Cee

You look stunning in your cobalt jacket over simple column of black. Lovely outfit! I agree with you about the beauty and importance of basics. I think having good basics is even more important this time of year when it is all about staying warm and being weather-appropriate. Who has got the time to fuss over outfits when snow needs shoveling? Great basics + killer jacket is such a great looking and fuss-free combo.

Sveta

(website)

Hear, hear! I also realized the power of simply cut and beautifully fitting classic pieces not that long ago. This outfit is a perfection and the cobalt jacket really shines with the support of the classics.

Windchime

This looks classy and polished and was easy for you to pull together because you have the needed basics. As others said, the neutral black background lets the gorgeous cobalt stand out.

Another Lands End puffer! Angie wrote about them yesterday AND they come in tall lengths; I may have to put one on my ever-expanding shopping list.

donnat

The blue looks sensational! I also am liking the red puffer, its shape is much like my black columbia puffer. I am thinking i may need a red puffer.

Jaime

Love this - you really do have the best jackets and your basics form the perfect backdrop to let them shine.

Mochi

What a fantastic minimalist jacket, Shannon. Yes, there's something about the purity of a basic, streamlined look. Unfussy and allows your vibrant self to shine through. You look great.

Ornella

Nodding happily. Great outfit Shannon. I love the strong colours of the blazer and OMG - red puffer. *plonk*
You look so great AND happy. I'm always smiling back when I see your smile.

Sam

Active Member

Shannon, this outfit is wonderful! I love the look of a bold jacket on a column of black and you're pulling it off so well.

Suz

You look terrific. Strong, simple, and happy.

shedev

The basics really let the jacket shine.

Beth Ann

You had me at cobalt! You look sleek and fabulous. Thanks for illustrating Angie's puffer post, too!

We're with you in the deep freeze today!

DizzyLizzy

Nodding head in agreement...this is much the same as I dress in winter - basics as the base layer and swap out the topper for whatever my mood - or the weather - dictates. I LOVE the cobalt jacket on you. YLF

Alexandra

I hear you on the power of basics. I think basics form the majority of my wardrobe at this point. I add a touch of color with scarves.

You look wonderful!

Elizabeth P

Love, love, love love.

Did you hear anything about the job?

carambola

That cobalt jacket is amazing on you! You look great.

Sara L.

Fun jacket in a great color! I agree that great basics are the building blocks of a wardrobe. I'm having some problems with that right now since a lot of my basic tops don't fit and it can be very frustrating when trying to put an outfit together.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

I love you in a Chanel-esque style jacket. Suits you to a tee and so does cobalt. Who would think you could look so insanely put together for -40 degrees. You are inspirational in many ways. Do you wear snow boots and swap back into regular boots indoors?

Divine puffer too. xo

MuseumGal

This is gorgeous! You are so right about the power of basics.

unfrumped

I agree! They help us "get out the door". I focused on some basics (or "essentials"--still not sure what to call them--will review Angie's posts) this fall.

Jenava

Basics look exceptional when they are good quality and fit well like this. You look fab!!

sarah

You look gorgeous. I really like the silhouette of that jacket on you!

AviaMariah

You just looks beautiful and this demonstrates so well why good quality, well fitted basics are a must!

Transcona Shannon

El Cee - "great basics and killer jacket" - EXACTLY!

Sveta - you look gorgeous in your new cobalt jacket. You're going to love the color for brightening up darker outfits in the dead of winter.

Windchime - this puffer was one of my best purchases in winter 2012. It's warm, bright colored to bring some cheeriness and not too puffy. You wouldn't regret purchasing one, trust me.

Mochi - it's funny how I'm reaching more and more for "unfussy". And to think I used to love ruffles and more layers!

Elizabeth - yes, I got offered the position and have very happily accepted it. That's probably why I look so happy in my pictures - 'cause I am!!!

Angie - yes, I do wear snow boots for my commute and then switch to shoes when I get indoors. A girl's gotta be practical when it's that cold out. I'm really glad you posted about the Lands' End puffers - it has been just a fantastic coat for me.

Thank you all

I am all for the practical commute and swapping out pieces when you're at your destination. It's a brilliant idea, and allows us to continue having fun with fashion. xo

kkards

love this--this is how i dress most days.

Exactly. I would hate to have to put away my pretty shoes and booties and just live in winter boots for four months. How boring would that be? I have a lovely bag that I pop my lunch and shoes into each morning when I leave the house and then they come back home with me at the end of the work day. No hassle at all.

minimalist

Congrats on the job, Shannon, and hurray for fabulous wardrobe essentials. Leaving the house when it's -40°F sounds heroic in itself, and you do it while looking terrific!

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