The Popular “Wardrobe Essentials” Lists

These lists have become so popular nowadays, and it is no wonder—everyone wants to look nice and stylish without much hassle.  If you haven’t heard of them and are into style and fashion, I’m a little surprised, but let me tell you about them.  They are lists with the “must haves” in your closet.  For example, the white button up shirt, the wrap dress, the dark washed jeans, the jean jacket, one black shirt, one white shirt, etc.

Even though my own personal opinion might be unpopular, here it goes.  I think these lists might be a good choice for people who don’t like many choices or making decisions regarding their wardrobe.  This is a one-size-fits-all wardrobe that satisfies a demand for a quick solution. 

However, even if your goal is to have a simple and effortless style, I feel like these lists do not help you cultivate your own sense of personal style and most likely do not represent you and your personality, but that of the one making the list.  It is a very cookie-cutter approach to building a wardrobe.    

While educating myself to become a stylist, I noticed many stylists creating their version of “wardrobe essentials,” and they all were extremely similar.  At first I thought it was a great idea, so I gave it a try to see if it was something I wanted to offer to my clients.  I soon wondered, what if everyone went based on these lists?  Then everyone would look the same!  We all have different lifestyles.  How can this list fit the lifestyle of a full-time corporate woman to that of a stay-at-home mom? 

Building a wardrobe does not only depend on your lifestyle; it also depends on a few other influences like your style personality, your body, your budget, your favorite colors or patterns, etc.  Due to these influences being unique to you, you will not find a ready-made list of “wardrobe essentials” customized to your individual aspects.   Therefore, I encourage my clients to build THEIR own essentials lists and not be limited to the rules of others.  If you must, use it merely as guidance, and always make sure to add your personal touch.  One of the worst feelings is not feeling like yourself.

xo