written by Emily Hsieh for Shop It To Me
Emily Hsieh is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in publications including InStyle, People Style Watch, Allure, and and Lucky, where she is also a contributing editor.
Naturally, with Daylight Savings Time about to kick in (don’t forget: clocks spring forward by an hour as of this Sunday at 2AM!), we’ve had time saving on our minds. At Shop It To Me HQ, there’s been a lot of chatter about how this translates sartorially—or really, how we can all streamline our routines by getting dressed faster without slacking on style. The verdict? With a little strategic shopping, anything is possible.
There are certain key building blocks that work for any wardrobe—classic, versatile items that take the guesswork out of deciding what to wear. Imagine the perfect black dress, for starters: in an ideal world, everyone would have one fantastic, well-made, well-cut LBD that could be worn for any occasion from work to weekend. Something simple and classic that could be accessorized every which way, so if you woke up feeling rock and roll, say, you could add an eyeliner and leather cuff, or for more of a demure, Breakfast at Tiffany’s vibe, just throw on kitten heel pumps and black shades. And now imagine if said dress was 70% off—genius, right?
After thinking long and hard about the other fundamental pieces every woman should have, we combed the market to track down the best, most ingeniously versatile, need-to-have-them staples to make anyone look instantly pulled together—and all at super-discounted prices to boot. Herewith, our guide to looking effortlessly, flawlessly chic.
1.) Calvin Klein Jersey Dress, $538.50 (orig, $1795, 70% off)
For day, add a blazer and flats to this sleek, wrinkle-proof (and hence, perfect for travel) shift to make it office-ready; for evening, simply swap in a killer pair of heels.
2.) Cole Haan Air Elly Patent Leather Wedge, $54.97 (orig $54.97, 70% off)
The moderate wedge offers a boost in height without sacrificing your feet, and in durable, easy-to-dress up patent leather, these peeptoes are especially versatile.
3.) Cosabella “Forever” Bikinis, $35 for set of two (originally $50, 30% off)
Stock up on these mesh-and-lace skivvies: they can be worn under virtually any garment, and hit the mark between comfy and pretty.
4.) Antik Batik Embroidered Cotton Shirt, $250 (originally $625, 60% off)
Pair this breezy, lightweight tunic with jeans and Chucks for weekends, or with a blazer and pencil skirt at work. Plus, it could also double as the most glamorous bikini cover-up ever.
5.) A.B.S. Double Breasted Trenchcoat, $179 (originally $298, 40% off)
A timelessly chic trench is a universally flattering, seasonless staple, and works equally well over a suit or evening gown.
6.) Bottega Veneta Intreciato Blue Leather Handbag, $2019.99 (originally $4680, 45% off)
The deep cerulean hue and buttery soft basket-woven leather put a luxurious spin on this practical, generously proportioned satchel.
7.) Tom Ford ‘Kelly’ Sunglasses, $210 (originally $350, 40% off)
These oversize black sunglasses deliver a jolt of downtown cool to any look.
8.) Ann Taylor Wool Long Cardigan with Turnback Sleeves, $49.99 (originally $88, 43% off)
Subtle pleating and plackets offer just a hint of embellishment to this soft, lightweight merino wool layering piece.
9.) Gryphon Sequin Tank Dress, $345 (originally $575, 40% off)
Every closet needs one knockout party dress: we’re big fans of the eye-catching shimmer, clean lines, and wear-it-year-round factor of this Gryphon piece.
10.) Carlos Falchi Large Trapezoid Bag, $212.50 (originally $425, 50% off)
Grab this gorgeous, snakeskin clutch to make a seamless transition from corporate to cocktails.
