Keeping it classic

One of the most innate aspects of clothing is that it should serve a purpose, or some kind of function. It should primarily act as a shield and protectant from the elements. But beyond the basic fundamentals which clothing represents, it has become a means to represent a person as a whole. A quick glance at what someone is donning can probably give you a glimpse of what they like to do in their free time. But being able to determine if someone prefers playing World of Warcraft for seven hours or not isn't really the point. What people forget or simply don't understand is that clothing and style doesn't have to be sloppy to be comfortable. Looking tailored and put together does not require loads of money, nor does it have to be difficult to maintain. And so, here is a short list of a few simple and classic items that work all day, everyday, and on anyone, male or female.

1) The tailored shirt



Ralph Lauren button down shirt


It's a perfect staple in every wardrobe, and can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Ralph Lauren button downs are in fact a good investment at full price. But of course, my theory is that just about everything can be found at a discount, and I'm positive eBay is a good source for Ralph Lauren shirts (where I usually find mine, though a favorite gingham button down I bought at Macy's during Christmas season for $18, found in the boys section!)

2) The fitted jean



J Brand skinny cropped jeans



A pair of fitted, cropped dark denim is a staple and necessity in my wardrobe, as I wear them at least four days in the week. Make sure they aren't too cropped (because then they become capris that cut legs into stumpy stubs), but just enough to graze your ankles. This further achieves the classic, tailored look that isn't fussy. The perfect jean for me also comes at the perfect price at Uniqlo, for just $40 a pair. The washes range from inky black to light gray, and I'm pretty sure I have doubles or even triples of each (because I'm crazy). Furthermore, Uniqlo offers free hemming in-store, which means you can specify the length as you please, which really doesn't get any more perfect than this. J Brand is another favorite for the super simple stitching plus fabulous washes and fits. These tend to be expensive, but websites like Shopbop at times feature them for sale. Another reliable bet is the popular site peddling droves of discounted designer labels, Gilt Groupe, which often features J Brand jeans for at least 40 percent off retail prices, if not more.

3) The sleek shoe



Church's brogues



Shoes are crucial in tying together a stylized look. They can be the ultimate punctuation mark to an outfit, either providing an exclamation mark (!) or the elusive and questionable three dot ellipses (...). A pair of leather brogues is an easy way to incorporate classic style without looking too basic and boring. These plaid Church's brogues especially provide an extra pop of bright color which can update and modernize your look. And while Church's shoes are recognized as being some of the highest in quality and consequently price, it might seem impossible to own a pair. But thanks to my hawk eyes, I was able to find a pair for myself through British discounted designer site the Outnet for $150 (incredible steal).

4) The structured bag





Celine (swoon)

Having a structured bag is a nice everyday option that can seamlessly go from work to play. This beautiful example comes from Celine, but of course at a pretty penny. There are tons of similar types and in real leather that pull off the same look. Check out ASOS for much more affordable options. (We're talking $100 versus $3,000 here.)