Here’s a selection of quality items that for the most part are simple in design. That makes them versatile and gives them the potential to become wardrobe workhorses.
1. Naturalizer Simonette Mule
I like the look of trendy mules, but they fell off my feet and would make a loud “clucking” sound no matter how many styles I tried. Then I tried these in a narrow size in white and at last I have mules that stay on my feet. The style of the mule encloses more of the foot which makes them feel more secure. They don’t “cluck,” and are soft and cushioning. You can see them on my feet in this forum thread.
Naturalizer makes the mules across three widths. If you have low volume feet, order a narrow size. If not, get regular or wide for higher volume feet.
2. Taos Crave Boot
If you need a robust casual and comfortable Winter boot that goes the distance in grotty weather, but isn’t black, try this style. The Taos Crave is orthotic-friendly, and fits a range of foot shapes. You can adjust the laces to fit a range of ankle and calf widths. Wear it over skinnies, with crops, with dresses, or under pants and jeans. Well worth the rave reviews. Fabber Suz models the boot in style on the forum.
3. Boden Elizabeth Ponte Blazer
An extremely well-made modern classic tailored blazer that looks sharp and chic. The quality of the workmanship is gorgeous. The substantial fabric drapes elegantly over the body. The tailored fit is very streamlining. The stretch in the fabric is comfortable, and great for travel. Crease-resistant and flattering. It fits a large bust and wider midsection extremely well, yet it works as well on a smaller bust and narrower frame. Comes in petite and regular and is available up to US18.
4. Naturalizer Emiline Loafer
You can almost always count on Naturalizer to cover narrow, regular and wide shoe widths, and I’m thankful for that. These loafers are heavenly comfortable on the feet in the solids and metallics, and are well worth the rave reviews. The navy and blush metallic options are unique. If loafers usually fall off your feet, try these.
5. Talbots Trench Coats
Both these trench coats are WOW quality. Magnificent workmanship and very luxurious fabric. The red has a belt at the waist which can be tied at the back. The single-breasted style detailing is rare and works exceptionally well on a larger bust and/or apple and inverted triangle-shaped body type. That said, the fit is equally magical on a curvy hourglass and pear shape because of impeccable cut and substantial fabric. My size US12/14 client tried them both on and blew me away. Stunning fit.
6. Dagne Dover Classic Tote
There is more than meets the eye to these simple totes. They’re structured, yet streamlined. The interior is purposefully designed for items like an iPad, phone, water bottle, wallet, notebook, pen, keys and sunglasses. The totes zip closed, and are made of wipeable canvas. They come in many fab colours. A quality piece.
7. Fun Sheer Socks
Sheer patterned socks can be a fun addition to loafers, oxfords, pumps and sandals. They add maximal and textural interest to an outfit. The point is to showcase them with cropped pants and jeans, or wear them with skirts and dresses. The last two styles with “ballet laces” look particularly good with pumps and dresses.
