20 Something Clothing College Pop Culture

Clothes Every 19 and 20-something Should Own

I recently finished the encumbering task of weeding through and re-organizing my closet. I got rid of 30+ things that I either never wear or have been wearing since high school that I’ll be taking to Goodwill. I found shirts that I’ve been wearing from five years ago…I think it’s safe to say it’s time to revamp my wardrobe.

Obviously, I turned to my fashion icon (aka my Mom) for style advice. That wasn’t a joke; my Mom is actually one of the best-dressed individuals I know. Her Pinterest board for clothes is filled with tons with outfits I can’t wait to copy.

I can’t wait to blow all my birthday money on buying new clothes, but I’m forcing myself to follow some guidelines. I’m only buying classic things/ staples that will last a long time and won’t immediately go out of style (besides accessories, which I just straight up don’t have).

After some extensive research (over 12 hours of online clothes browsing and conversations with my Mom), I’ve narrowed down the staple pieces I need that every other 19 and 20-something year old should also own.

1. A Basic Blazer

I recommend black, because it goes with everything. You can dress it up with nice slacks or a pencil skirt for an interview, or dress it down with jeans for a night out. You can find these everywhere right now. I got mine at Forever 21, but I’ve seen them at the Gap, Ann Taylor Loft, Department stores, etc. I’m planning on getting one in Navy or a fun color too if I can find one.

2. Basic Tees

This one is a given, and probably something you already have, but everyone should have a plain black, white, and grey t-shirt, plus some colors. Paired with a cardigan and a scarf or necklace, these are a staple that will help make every outfit. I recommend having the same basic colors in long sleeve t’s as well for versatility, and because they’re handy in the middle of winter.

3. Cardigans/ Sweaters

Most people own cardigans by now and I highly recommend them. You can make a ton of outfits with them by pairing it with a basic T-shirt and adding accessories to make a wide array of outfits. I am striving for a basic black, grey, and cream one, as well as a fun color. I really like this one from American Eagle that I received as a birthday gift; it’s really comfortable and will go with almost everything.

4. A Pencil Skirt

These are great if you have to dress business casual, and also handy for a job interview when paired with a nice blouse or blazer. Grey and black are both good staples. Make sure you buy one that’s long enough to look professional.

5. Pants that aren’t jeans

I’d go for a nice pair of fitted khaki’s and black and/or grey slacks. These are also good for job interviews or for dressing more business casual.

6. Ballet Flats

Great with jeans or a nice dress/ skirt, ballet flats can go with virtually any outfit, especially in the fall and spring. I recommend the basics, as well as a fun color or pattern.

7. Thin Belts

Not only are they great for holding up your pants, but they also spice up an outfit when worn around your waist with a cardigan or a dress.

8. Fashion Scarves

This one is more of a personal preference, but I think scarves are great because they make any outfit look interesting and they help keep you warm in the fall and winter. Round/ infinity scarves are really popular right now, but basic square ones are great too and there are tons of nifty ways you can tie them. (Check out this website for an index of different tying styles).

9. Jewelry

This is the accessory I currently lack. Definitely a personal preference item, but adding a necklace or bracelet to an outfit definitely adds to its overall appearance. Statement necklaces are really popular right now, as are wrap-around bracelets. Having some basic pieces that will go with different outfits add some versatility that will vamp up those basic tee’s and cardigans. As far as earrings go, statement/ fashion earrings can go a long way if you don’t like necklaces or bracelets, but I usually stick with stud styles. Again, personal preference will largely dictate these decisions, but earrings can add a lot to an outfit as well.

10. Basic Blue Jeans

When I say basic jeans, I don’t mean those studded True Religion ones (I have never been on that bandwagon, and I never will be). I’m talking basic, plain jeans that will go with everything and can be dressed up or down. Straight leg jeans are great, and give you the skinny jean look without the super skinny (which frankly feel restricting, and remind me of short shorts in the sense that I don’t know how that can be comfortable). Boot cut are also a good staple. I don’t think you have to shell out a lot of money on nice jeans (I still buy mine at Forever 21. They only last a year or two but they’re cheap and you honestly can’t tell the difference. Old Navy, Target, and the Gap also have a wide range of options for all sizes, styles, and body types.)

July 14, 2013