Back to the Basics
It's true with fashion, as with most things in life, that you should go with what you know. As long as you know 'the basics' you're fine. And we all (hopefully) know the fashion basics. It's easy, really easy, to get seduced by all of the new looks each season. We've all been there. A couple of magazine spreads into fall and you're convinced you don't have one single item that would be worthy of being worn in public. Obviously that's not the case, but you wouldn't know it from the way I act after doing my seasonal research. To calm your fears and mine (and prevent a 'wardrobe malfunction'), I'm here to bring you back to the basics. Think of it as a recap of Fashion 101.

I'm not much for minimalism, but you really can have a pretty complete closet with just a few items. Get your checklist ready.

• Two great pairs of pants. I'm usually a denim girl (regardless of what the fashion elite say), but I have to tell you there is nothing quite like a pair of tailored trousers. The fit is flattering (read: elongating), and they can take you from day to evening with a quick change in tops. Think tab waist, not pleated front. I'm a longtime fan of Theory's Amax Pant and have them in several colors. Another seasoned favorite is J. Crew's Wool Gabardine Trousers.
• Your go-to-three-days-a -week Black Blouse. Give your white button-down a rest this season. Black doesn't have to mean boring. Update this basic with contrasting cuffs, or trim detail. A tunic style take on this classic is another chic option. Whichever style ends up in your closet, be sure to pin a couple of brooches to give it some runway appeal.
• Your 'this old thing?' pencil skirt. I'm sure fashion mavens everywhere have heeded the advice of every September book (and Style Scoop!) from 2002 on regarding how important the pencil skirt is to the completion of your wardrobe. The silhouette hasn't changed much over the seasons, and tweed, wool and leather are still acceptable fabrics. Bring it out from that back corner of your closet, update it with some nude fishnets (every girl should have a pair of Spanx) and put it into heavy rotation.
• You and your autumn sweater. Sift through your drawers for a V-neck, turtleneck and especially a cardigan (fall's biggest sweater must-have). Any of these styles look great with anything from slim skirts, to tailored pants to of course, jeans. Personally, I would steer clear of bulky styles such as Fair Isle sweaters until the first snow or a visit to Norway. This season's styles are lighter and more contoured.

I would fall from favor with shop owners and lose my job for that matter, if I did not address the finishing touches you will need to buy to round out your wardrobe.

• Invest in some colorful pumps. While monochromatic is chic, a shot of color does a lot for outfits. Bright pumps are a great way to soften all-black attire and add some whimsy to your work basics.
• You'll need something underneath that cardigan. And for the second fall running, the jewel-toned camisole or tank has it. I, like so many others, held out on the whole lingerie inspired look, but it's back. The key to mastering this boudoir-look is to choose a chic and tasteful (i.e. NOT actual lingerie) tank and then keep your cardigan or blazer on the whole time. The body of the camisole should be visible, never the straps.
• Chic carryall. If you haven't made the purchase yet, what are you waiting for? You need it, enough said.
• A feminine top. At she she me HQ, we call it the sexy librarian top and love it. It's silky, fluid and demure. Pair this new take on the classic silk blouse with your pencil skirt and a blazer for work; jeans and a smattering of jewelry for play.

Ahh, I don't feel so clothing-deprived anymore. Once you remember that you have the building blocks of a great wardrobe (give or take a piece), the extras are much more fun and less overwhelming to add. Kind of takes the stress out of seasonal shopping, no?

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This is our newest way to bring you the best of the best from stores, designers and events around the country and the web. This column will run the first day of every month and will feature a smattering of promotions and products that will hopefully soothe the angst of our fave shopoholics. Take time to peruse September's and get ready for October's because it's just around the corner. Happy shopping!