What do straight-leg jeans, a blazer, and a white button-down all have in common? They are the holy trinity of closet essentials! Being in our 50’s, both of us have definitely had our share of “what were we thinking” fashion moments. But through a lot of hit or miss over the years, experimenting with different styles and trends, we have learned one crucial tip that we now swear by. Basics are your best friend. A leather jacket is a no-brainer in our arsenal of basics. Keeping it simple and basic with my friend and blogging partner Melissa Meyers and Who What Wear.

A blazer is a non-negotiable essential and you can never have too many. Wear a black belted blazer with a denim skirt trend to add a level of chic off-duty style, or pair a boyfriend cut with other classic besties like a white t-shirt, and jeans or a silk midi.

Thankfully, as we’ve gotten older our fashion choices have gotten wiser! We’ve each developed our own signature styles by anchoring with the basics and then adding accessories and seasonal trends to bring out our fashion personalities. Just as a house needs a solid foundation to build upon, so do our wardrobes. In addition to a few other key pieces like a crew neck sweater, white t-shirt, leather jacket, trench coat, black boots, and a classic handbag, basics are the building blocks of an always put-together wardrobe.

Franne Golde - Always a dependable brand for basics we love. On Sale Now! $38.00 / JGxGG Collection

High, low, or over the knee, boots are always made for walking…in style. Oh, and let’s not forget our favorite animal print…leopard! This classic cat has definitely made its way to basics status in our fashion bibles.

Technically a blazer with matching pants, every boss babe, aspiring and established, sure doesn’t hurt to own one of these. Or just go solid and throw a coat or blazer over your “old-faithful” uniform.

Nothing says crisp, clean and fresh like the perfect fitting white button-down. Our motto- when you find one you like, buy a few! Melissa and I are big fans of Franne Golde and Grayson.

Straight-leg denim paired with the right shoe - classic pump or boots- can amp up your business casual look, taking you from a lunch meeting to an evening of cocktails and brainstorming…or in our case, traveling!

Acting as the perfect canvas to experiment with trends, these staples can take you from casual to chic in a New York fashion week minute! And best of all, they don’t have to be expensive!

Thankfully, as we’ve gotten older our fashion choices have gotten wiser! We’ve each developed our own signature styles by anchoring with the basics and then adding accessories and seasonal trends to bring out our fashion personalities. Just as a house needs a solid foundation to build upon, so do our wardrobes.

Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to sign up to receive fashion inspiration from Who What Wear / Franne Golde / Melissa Meyers

xo, Janet