Jackson Free Press

There are some pieces—no matter the fads of the day—that every wardrobe requires. Every fashion guru has his or her own list of essentials, but they all basically say the same thing: Every woman needs a classic white shirt; a pair of slacks and a skirt that suits your figure (black is most versatile); a pair of dark-washed jeans; an all-occasion top that can be dressed up or down; a dress for day, choose a timeless color and cut that suit you best; a little black dress; a slouchy sweat suit alternative for weekends; and a jacket or cardigan.

With these basic pieces you have at least 10 outfits, maybe more. Add the essential pieces here and there, and you have a wardrobe worthy of envy. When purchasing essential wardrobe pieces, you can spend a handsome amount, but you don't have to. Spend a little time checking out the racks of consignment shops and thrift stores to find quality pieces for less than you thought.

Trends come and go, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with keeping up with them. But classic wardrobe sensibility—CoCo Chanel said it best: "Fashion fades, only style remains the same."

"When a little black dress is right, there is nothing else to wear in its place." —Edith Piaf

Where2Shop:
Bargain Boutique, 5070 Parkway Drive, 601-99100500;
Half-Half Name Brand Clothing, 826 S. Wheatley St., Ridgeland, 601-206-1689;
Posh Boutique, 4312 N. State St., 601-364-2244;
Repeat Street, 626 Ridgewood Rd., 501-605-9393;
Shoe Bar at Pieces, 425 Mitchell Ave., 601-939-5203;
Tangle Hair Salon & Boutique, 3000 N. State St., 601-987-0123;
Treehouse Boutique, 3008 N. State St., 601-982-3433;
Wilai, 2906 N. State St., Suite 103. 601-366-9955.

For more tips and fashion, fly over to the new JFP Fly Twitter page to show off your sense of style!