How to Build a Female Wardrobe

Sift through closet to eliminate dated or ill-fitting clothing.

Building a woman's wardrobe requires editing the existing wardrobe and acquiring investment pieces. From a colorful blazer to the perfect little black dress, a well-balanced closet can provide a lady with an outfit for any occasion. Quality clothing might be a little more expensive, but can look better for longer. Also, show off personality with fashionable pieces, statement jewelry and a bold pair of stilettos -- items that can add a colorful punch to a collection.

Things You'll Need

• Button-down shirts
• Turtlenecks
• Blazers
• Trousers
• Pencil skirts
• Jeans
• Fashion-forward garments
• Cocktail Dress
• Shoes (riding boots, ballet flats, pumps (2 to 2 ½ inch heel)
• Stilettos (optional)
• Handbags (clutches, hobos and a carry-all)
• Statement jewelry

Instructions

1. Analyze everyday activities to ascertain the types of clothing that are necessary for the wardrobe. Shape the wardrobe based on regular activities like work, seasonal events, regular social functions and outings can help. Go through the closet, discarding any articles that do not fit the body or lifestyle, to make room for better-suited garments.

2. Load up on the basics, timeless pieces that can be worn constantly. Buy higher quality staple items such as button-down shirts, turtlenecks, a well-constructed blazer, trousers, pencil skirt and dark washed jeans to ensure that they last longer. Stick with natural fabrics such as cottons, wools and cashmeres, as they tend retain their shape with proper garment care.

3. Dot the wardrobe with a few high-fashion statement garments to inject creativity and personality. Choose a unique top, creatively tailored jacket or a skirt with a distinct kick feature to spruce up the classic basic wardrobe. These signature garments can also be purchased in brighter colors or trim to really stand out.

4. Select a cocktail dress that is flattering to the figure. Have at least one little black dress, a sophisticated essential to a woman's wardrobe since Coco Chanel invented it in the early 1920s. For a bolder evening ensemble, choose a brighter dress that works well against the skin's completion. Try on various silhouettes, from slinky to a full flounce cocktail dress, choosing one that accentuates the body's natural attributes.

5. Accessorize the wardrobe. Choose a classic pair of riding boots, ballet flats and everyday pumps (2 to 2 ½ inch heel) that work with most outfits. For more flair, invest in a pair of high gloss or brightly-colored stilettos. Purchase handbags, including clutches, hobos and a carry-all, in classic neutrals or glitzy hues. Punch up an outfit with a piece of statement jewelry, such as a beaded necklace or chunky bracelet.

References

• "The Lucky Shopping Manual: Building and Improving Your Wardrobe"; Kim France, Andrea Linett; 2003
• "Style on a Shoestring: Develop Your Cents of Style"; Andy Paige; 2009
• "I Don't Have a Thing to Wear: The Psychology of Your Closet"; Judie Taggart, Jackie Walker; 2003
• Daily Telegraph; "Bright Colours the New Black''; Miranda Kerr; August 06, 2011