Let’s just skip the lame “deserted island” question and get to the point: While there is no such thing as an article of clothing you couldn’t live without, the act of mentally distilling your possessions to the things you would rather not live without has its merits. Style is highly subjective, and no two closets are alike, but there are certain high-functioning items that everyone needs to make the whole getting-dressed process work more smoothly. Therefore: The top five list. Think of it in terms of sets and sub-sets. For example, a wide belt would be a set, and a silk obi, a macramé sash, or a woven leather safari number would be contained within that set. That said, here are five things no well-stocked wardrobe should be without.
1. One stylish, knee-length lightweight jacket or sweater: My friend Stacey has a Chinese silk coat that’s a showstopper. It has three-quarter length sleeves and is covered with colorful embroidery. She wears it with heels over a cocktail dress to weddings. She wears it with jeans and a t-shirt for drinks with friends. It works in the winter over a turtleneck and in the summer over a slip dress. And, every time, it’s a knockout. My version of this is a lightweight ivory cashmere cable-knit sweater, long-sleeved and also to the knee. It’s great over the slightest dress on chilly summer nights, on the plane when I feel like snuggling up to something, or as a layering staple in the winter—belted or hanging loose. Splurge on one of your own and you’ll never regret it.
2. A statement-making necklace: While she was pregnant with twins, my friend Cindy wore the same outfit for what seemed like weeks on end. Here’s the thing: Her stretchy black skirt and wrap top never looked as tired as she felt because of these fabulous Indian necklaces she’d wear. They weren’t expensive, but they were bold and beautiful, made of intricate almost lacey links, and they provided a great distraction from her same-old shirt. Whether it’s a triple strand of moonstones, mod plastic beads, or an over-sized locket you inherited from Great Aunt Betty, a show-stopping necklace is a great way to turn a t-shirt and jeans into a viable “look,” or give extra shelf life to that black dress you’ve worn since 1989.
3. Stand-by dress shoes: Once, I owned the perfect shoes—snakeskin Gucci pumps with a mid-height heel in a grayish/tan color. I wore them with jeans, with cocktail dresses of any color, and with suits to work. Every single time I got dressed, I knew I could count on them when other shoes let me down. One morning, I was sprinting across Sixth Avenue to beat the light when the heel snapped. Faced with the decision to pick up the severed stiletto and face certain death from oncoming traffic or hobble to safety, I chose life. The heel was crushed by a bus, and the shoes were history. I can’t say I regret the choice entirely, but I’ve spent years looking for a suitable replacement. The closest thing I’ve found is a pair of classic black sandals that wrap around the ankle (worn bare-legged in summer and with tights in winter). Whether it’s an elegant black pump, a pointy red flat, or a swanky gold sandal, when you find the perfect go-with-everything shoes, buy them (plus a backup pair) and never let them go.
4. An evening dress that makes you feel like a movie star: Whether it is a $20 vintage number with a ‘50s wasp waist or spendy designer shift, own one timeless dress (or pantsuit, if that’s your thing) that fits you flawlessly and makes you feel good just looking at it. That way, in case of an emergency, cousin Brad’s wedding, or New Year’s Eve, you’ll always be equipped to knock someone’s socks off.
5. “Great ass” pants: They’re not cheap, and they’re as hard to find as Bigfoot, but they do exist. Mine are black Barbara Bui trousers that are beautifully lined and have leather detailing around the pockets. The fabric is heavy enough not to reveal bulges and light enough to be worn three seasons a year (don’t be jealous, summer, you get the sundress). I had them tailored just once nearly five years ago. And now, even when I’ve spent too much time with my old friend ice cream, they’re as loyal, and essential as ever.
