I really don't know whether I could accurately decide what an essential is for every woman's wardrobe because the category can be so subjective depending on lifestyle and climate needs - per Angie's blog post today.
For my own needs right now, if I had to replace 100% of my wardrobe in one go and start from scratch, this would be my list.
*Two PERFECT bras
*Killer knee high boots
*Statement specs
*Moto jacket (leather or denim)
*"Statement" blazer
*Comfortable, colorful, low-heeled pumps (preferably 2 pair)
*Flat pair of shoes that I can walk in all day
*Gray or black pencil skirt
*Sheath dress in a neutral (or neutral-ish, such as burgundy) color - filling the "LBD" wardrobe category
*"Statement" dress in a bright color or bold, figure-flattering print
*Dark straight or gentle bootcut jeans (For someone else, this could be a non-denim pant in a casual fabrication)
*Skinny jeans for tucking into boots
*Denim bermuda shorts or clamdiggers
*Colorful crossbody handbag
*Solid colored "neutral" (to me, this was a soft mossy green) trench coat/rain coat
*White and black basic camisoles for layering
*Solid colored shell
*Boyfriend cardigan
*At least two colorful non-tee shirt knit tops
*One or two colorful woven tops (I'd prefer these to be "button down alternatives" that aren't truly button down style.)
*Voluminous, light-weight, patterned scarf
*Two chunky necklaces (preferably one in pearls)
*Two flannel pajama sets in a cheeky print
*Three pairs patterned hose
*Basic sets of underwear
*Umbrella in a cute print
Honestly, if I had to REALLY pare down my clothes for the same climate that I currently live in, this is probably what I'd end up with.