Continuing with our series of tips from The Little Black Book of Style
, let’s take a look at the “bones” of your wardrobe. The bones are:
“Those essential staples that go with almost anything, never go out of style, and are enduringly chic. They are meant to be a black canvas that you can layer on to….These ten staples transcend time, trends and travel. They can go from day to night, season to season, and they can still be worn five years from now.”

The Little Black Dress

According to Nina Garcia this is the “ultimate black canvas. It is mysterious and chic, understated and provocative. In its simplicity, it makes you look endlessly elegant. The little black dress is the dress that’s going to let you shine - it’s going to flatter you…It lets your hair, your accessories, and your personality take center stage.”

She also mentions the slimming effect, but this is not something I’m worried about here, as you already know.

Francesca Dress in Black by Igigi

Marilyn Ruched Convertible Dress by Monif C

A Classic Men’s White Shirt

Why? Because it’s chic and simple, chic and unpretentious. It can be paired with jeans, black pants, skirts, among other possibilities.

Foxcroft Ruched Front Shirt by Nordstrom

Evans White Short Sleeve Blouse

Cashmere Cardigan or Turtleneck

Nina Garcia believes that cashmere adds the power of instant glamour to an outfit:

“And also a cashmere cardigan is perfect over anything - a dress, a t-shirt, a button down shirt, but it’s incredibly sexy when worn alone, à la Marilyn Monroe. A turtleneck is also perfect paired with most everything - jeans, trousers, skirts.”

Bloomingdales - Plus Size Cashmere Cable Grandfather Cardigan

Plus-Size Cashmere Turtleneck

Well it doesn’t have to be cashmere to look awesome; that will depend on your taste and budget, but you can look gorgeous anyway!

A Trench Coat

It’s chic and can be worn with almost anything under it. It can be from heavier or lighter materials. Here are some different examples:

A fancy Rainy Day Trench Coat in Navy by Igigi for not too cold weather.

This gorgeous Evans Navy Belted Coat is never out of style.

And although so far the pictures chosen for this post are all more conservative, a “bone” can come in a bright color, especially sweaters, cardigans and coats.

Next week we’ll come back with the second part of the “bones” of your closet. I’d love to know if you agree with these options placed here and what your own essentials are. Please share! :)

Patricia Morgado is a Brazilian teacher, jewelry designer and a self acceptance and fashion blogger. She has a degree in Pedagogy and a Master's degree in Human Rights Education. She believes that the key to a happy life is learning to love ourselves. She also believes that fashion is for everyBODY. You can find her jewlery work at Madame Papu's.