27 Wardrobe Fashion Pieces You Should Have By The Time You’re 27!
Never have that "I-have-nothing-to-wear-I-hate-everything" moment again.
Even if you don’t agree with needing these basics by 27, we doubt most women would say no to owning a classic black blazer or ankle-grazing pants that fit just right. After all, these essentials will be the foundation of your wardrobe, anchoring whatever crazy, amazing fashion pieces you find along the way.
So you’re in your twenties…battling the responsibilities of being an adult and not wanting to leave the comfort of your childhood bedroom. Gone are the days when you could lounge around in your dungarees and pinafore dresses, now you have to dress and think your age (you’ll get used to it, don’t worry). If you are the kind who just “can’t adult”, then here’s some help to get you by. In other words, once you tailor this list to your own needs, getting dressed in the morning should be all the easier.
1. Classic white button-down shirt
There is nothing a crisp white button-down shirt can’t do for you. From helping you look sharp at that interview you have lined up or when you want to throw it on top of your denim shorts for a cool, casual look…the list is endless.
There’s a reason trench coats have been en vogue since the late 1800s. Functional, flattering, and super-classic, it’s a jacket that looks great on virtually every body type, thanks to its waist-defining properties. Easy to wear with a dress or pants, it’s perfect for drizzly days in the fall and spring, and always helps present a professional image.
Trench coats should invariably be neutral, especially if you’re going for a foundation piece. Opt for classic detailing, such as medium lapels, a double-breasted bodice, and a tie at the waist. The best-quality trenches are typically made with lined cotton gabardine, but leather and poplin are common as well.
Blue jeans, a timeless classic. Need we say more? Also something we just cannot live without. If you have survived 27 years on Planet Earth and still don’t own a pair of blue jeans, then chances are you come from a different planet.
5. Pencil Skirt
If you only purchase one skirt for the rest of your life, make it a pencil shape. Why? Because it’s the most universally flattering and classic. The higher rise and knee-skimming length make pencil skirts look great on just about everyone, and they’re appropriate for a number of events and situations. From work to church, a pencil skirt is a wardrobe powerhouse, playing nicely with blouses, sweaters, and jackets.
Ankle booties, heeled boots, rugged boots – the seasons go by, and so do the styles. While it’s totally fine to buy a cheap, trendy pair, some of your budget should be allocated to a good-quality pair of sleek leather riding boots. These classic knee-length, no-heel boots originated with the equestrian crowd, and they can see you through season after season. They look amazing with dresses, skirts, and pants, and because they lack a heel, they’re actually very sensible. Quality depends on price, only because the higher the price, the better the leather and materials.
Manolo Blahnik’s classic BB pump will forever be the gold standard of black pumps, but if you’re looking for a fresh new style, try Dior’s recently launched Dioressence pump. Its ever-so-slight curved heel makes it a new classic.
If you want to invest in a pair of heels that isn’t just limited to a certain place or an occasion, then go for nude pumps. The safest and the most versatile choice that will save you during dire times.
Yup, it’s time! No, we’re not talking about the funky printed ones you carried every day to college. We’re talking about the classic leather tote bag. Too boring? You’ll need it more than you know. Go ahead, surprise yourself!
10. Nautical stripes
Another classic – we’re all guilty for owning too many striped clothes. If you don’t already, now would be a good time to invest in one. You can pair them with plain skirt or pants and you’re bound to look effortlessly cool.
Ask me what item of clothing I’d keep if I had to give everything else away, and I’d definitely say my blazer. Its versatility is unrivaled. I wear it with jeans and heels while out with friends, and I also use it to tone down a cocktail dress. Plus, thanks to a classic cut, blazers are super flattering for any figure. A basic, black blazer is simply a must-have for any closet, whether you work in an office or you’re home with the kids. It’s the fastest way to look put-together and polished – something every woman needs.
Pay attention to length when buying a blazer: It should hit you just at the hip. A longer blazer might be trendier, but it can also shorten your legs. And, while shorter blazers are fun, they aren’t as universally flattering as a hip-length style. Make sure the tailoring is right for you as well – you should notice a clear shape at your waist.
Every woman should have a little black dress – they can be worn to work, dressed up for a date, and dressed down for casual wear.
Go for knee-length or shorter, which can be worn with a pair of party heels for a wedding, or with a cardigan and flats for work. A classic shape also helps, since LBDs are usually sheaths, which means they fit closely all the way down the body. A little black dress also offers minimal embellishment. Instead, you add the personality with shoes and accessories.
You know how a kurti can be the solution to almost ALL of your wardrobe queries sometimes. Even if you are not the one who has warmed up to ethnic wear, a nice cotton kurti is a wardrobe must-have.
14. A Perfect White T-Shirt
The neckline. A V-neck is the most flattering to all body types, by far. I find that the best-fitting T-shirts have a fine knit (a looser-knit ribbed T-shirt loses its shape over time). I also like a little spandex in mine, since it helps create the best shape throughout the day.
15. A thin waist belt
A thin waist belt can give your outfit a brand new avatar. Increase your wardrobe multifold by simply adding a waist belt on top of an oversized tee or sweater. Perfect to create that sleek structured look.
16. Black sunglasses
A pair of black sunglasses that frame your face well automatically makes you look more attractive…and also does a pretty good job of hiding those bags under your eyes if you’ve a had a long night out. 😛
17. Delicate fine jewelry
You’ve owned your share of statement jewelry, but a gold necklace with a pave pendant is the kind of thing you can wear every day for the rest of your life.
Denim cut-offs are perfect for the summer days. These shorts look great when paired with flats and plimsolls.
19. A printed scarf
A pretty scarf can dress you up with little or no effort. Whether you’re tying it around your neck or using it as a head-scarf or tying it on the sling of your bag, it can do wrong!
20. Diamond studs
Diamond studs, even faux ones, are a class act at any age. Nothing over the top, but a delicate piece that you can wear daily. It will help you look more polished and can even serve as a future heirloom.
21. Silk blouse
A slinky blouse is perfect for days when you’re feeling bloated but still want to look put-together.
22. The perfect saree
By the time you are 27, you will be attending a lot of engagements, weddings and other functions. It is always safe to keep that perfect sari in reserve for such occasions.
23. A neat watch
Being on time is also a responsibility and a sign of good manners as you grow older. Invest in a decent watch that you can wear to work or outside; it will serve you well for the years to come!
24. Evening clutch
If you haven’t already started attending the slew of weddings and events that comes with turning 30, a chic clutch will become a go-to. No need to buy a new bag for every party like you did in your twenties– you’ll want to have a reason to wear this everywhere.
25. Nude strappy sandal
Do these sandals look familiar? They should be, because they’re worn by just about every celebrity on the red carpet. They go with denim just as well as they do with an Oscar-worthy gown.
26. Ankle length black pant
You have to admit that the woman knew the power of an ankle-grazing trouser. It’s a chic alternative to jeans when you need to look a bit more dressed up.
Red lipstick is not an item of clothing or an accessory, but it is necessary that to have your shade of red by now. Whether you’re a warm scarlet or prefer an electric crimson with blue undertones, find a red that complements your skin tone.