This article is definitely inspired by how I spent my day: working through my closet, trying things on, putting together outfits, and then deciding that something didn't fit or looked how I wanted it to. For the pieces that didn't fit quite right, I immediately put those in a "donation" pile. Whether that meant becoming a hand-me-down for my sister or actually being donated would be a problem I dealt with once I was done. But, for the items that didn't look quite right on me, I was left wondering whether or not it just wasn't meant for me or I simply wasn't being trendy enough to pull it off. But, there are a few pieces that I own several of that I think I could share my opinion on. The basics, you know?
Graphic tees
Graphic tees are a staple for anyone and everyone, and whoever says they aren't is a complete liar. Whether you go for a shirt with a loud neon photo right smack in the middle or some simple words in a nice font is completely up to you. But, a good graphic tee shirt could be dressed up with a nice skirt or down with a pair of jeans. They are practically made for every occasion you could think of.
Tanks
Tank tops come in a variety of patterns and literally every color of the rainbow and then some. They are great to throw on by themselves, layered over a shirt, and/or even under a cardigan. Tanks are simple pieces of clothing that are literally the most versatile piece ever. I've never met a person who doesn't love a good tank. Whether you choose to wear spaghetti straps, something wider, or even a muscle tee, there is a style just for you.
Solid colored long sleeves
Living in New Jersey, we can't exactly live in t-shirts and tanks. Which means that long sleeves are a must. For me, the term "long sleeves" covers a variety of clothing items ranging from the simple Rutgers shirts I've accumulated to the more (sort of) mature turtlenecks. When you consider the fact that I get cold way easier than the average person, you could say that I wear these pieces religiously. Long sleeves, no matter what style, are good for just throwing on when you're in a hurry, feel like being lazy, or even when you're trying to impress a future employer.
Fun fact: I absolutely love a good turtleneck *cheesy smile*
A pair or two of good jeans
Jeans are absolutely a must for a good everyday look. Whether this be something more dressed up or paired with something as basic and simple as a plain, white tee, jeans are made to be durable. Of course, a thick denim material may seem uncomfortable, but once you find the right pair, they definitely feel as though they were made for you. I personally think that American Eagle makes some of the best jeans, but lately, I've found that Primark makes some pretty good pairs at a decent price as well (you know, since we're ballin' on a budget *awkward laugh*).
Sweats for lounging
Being in college, there are very much going to be days where you feel like making no effort whatsoever. On these days sweatshirts AND sweatpants are a must. These can and should be your most comfortable pieces of clothing, especially if you get them a size or two too big. They're great for suffering through the cold winds of Rutgers in or even just to lay in your bed to watch Netflix.
So, I am by no means a fashionista of any sorts. I struggle to put together outfits on a daily basis and more often than not I end up leaving my house/dorm in jeans and a t-shirt with whatever shoes I can put on in thirty seconds. But, that doesn't mean that I don't think there are basic pieces that I believe every person (or at least girls? since I'm not too sure what guys wear) should have in their closet. And if we're being honest here, which I am, then I have to admit that these basics make up a majority of my closet. Because, like I said, I don't know how to put together clothes in any sort of trendy fashion (get it?). *giggles*
But, obviously, you can go beyond these and add a few more pieces that can jazz up any outfit. For instance, I've got two pairs of plaid pants, one much nicer than the other, that I can dress up or down for whatever the occasion may be. There are definitely clothing items that will put you that much closer to a closet similar to Hannah Montana's and I applaud you for the boldness and confidence you have in those choices. Overall, you shouldn't be afraid to try new styles or mix and match anything and everything until you find what you are most comfortable in!
With love, Arielle :) (and my sister, thanks to her ~tiny~ bits of input)