Every woman should have those few outfits in her closet that are complete, that she feels totally confident in, and that suit a specific occasion. These are perfectly tailored outfits she doesn’t have to tug at or adjust, and they’re completely appropriate to a specific task or occasion. Fit is especially important for these outfits.
These are no-brainer complete investment outfits. They allow you to stop thinking about what to wear and to focus on what you’re doing in the moment, especially if you know you’re going to be distracted or emotional. Today we break down the power outfits you should have in your *capsule* wardrobe.
Job Interview
Whether it’s a job interview or an important presentation of your career, having at least one business professional outfit that will make you feel confident, is classic, and will stand the test of time is absolutely essential. We recommend a perfectly fit blazer in a neutral color, a pair of trousers or a knee-length skirt, a beautiful blouse that makes you feel like a boss, and a pair of classic black or nude pumps.
Club Monaco Borrem Blazer
$298 – SHOP
Theory Approach Thaniel Pants
$275 – SHOP
Halogen Ponte Pencil Skirt
$59 – SHOP
Banana Republic Petite Tie-Neck Blouse
$79.50 – SHOP
Sam Edelman Jaina d’Orsay Pump
$59.95 – SHOP
Funeral
Funerals are normally very emotional events and the last thing you want is to be fussing about is your outfit. Make sure you have a classic black outfit that is modest, neat, and comfortable. How stylish you want to make it is really up to you and your comfort level but be sure it’s not going to be distracting to yourself or others. You’ll want to wear black or subdued colors, and avoid bright colors and patterns. If you’re unsure, it’s better to opt for a more conservative look. Some examples are a black pantsuit and/or sheath dress. If you accessorize, stick to studs, pendant necklaces, or brooches. We also recommend close toed shoes that aren’t more than 3.5 inches high as you may be standing for some time.
Black Halo Derek Sheath Dress
$345 – SHOP
Vince Camuto Angled Ruffle Sheath Dress
$138 – SHOP
MSGM Embellished Neck Fluted Cuff Sheath Dress
$178.50 – SHOP
Christian Louboutin Actina 85 Suede Slingback Pump
$795 – SHOP
First Date
You’ll probably want to play up this outfit depending on your mood, but when you’re feeling nervous about a first date, having a no-brainer outfit that makes you feel confident is really going to take some stress off of you. Whether you are meeting with a big client for the first time, or going on a fancy date with a love interest, this outfit should be dressy, stylish, and fit you like a glove. You can never go wrong with an LBD or a red dress.
Zimmermann – Gathered-cuff Silk-satin Midi Wrap Dress
$630 – SHOP
Saloni – Rina Ruffled Silk-blend Jacquard Mini Dress
$195 – SHOP
Roland Mouret – Haye Chevron-bodice Crepe Jumpsuit
$891 – SHOP
Cami NYC – The Lillian Silk-charmeuse Maxi Dress
$375 – SHOP
Spring/Summer Event
Emotional events can include baby showers, gender reveals, or someone special graduating, just to name a few. These events tend to be fun and bright so you’ll need an outfit that’s going to match the occasion and look great in photos. If you’re a big part of the events, you’ll want to wear something comfortable as you’ll be moving around a lot. Avoid 6-inch heels and restricting pieces. We recommend a lace midi dress, a patterned two-piece set, and heeled sandals. Don’t be afraid to go trendy with this.
Needle & Thread – Jasmine Hemsley Earth Garden Lace-trimmed Embroidered Tulle Midi Dress
$475 – SHOP
Reformation – Rainey One-sleeve Floral-print Georgette Midi Dress
$248 – SHOP
Porte & Paire – Knotted Leather Sandals
$290 – SHOP
Schutz Nita Patent Leather Sandals
$118 – SHOP
Jet-Setter
This might sound silly, but you absolutely need an airport outfit! Traveling can be stressful, especially if it’s an early flight and you have to deal with traffic and all the stress that comes with checking in and boarding your flight on time. Airports and airplanes can also be cold, and since you might find yourself sitting on flights for more than 10 hours, wearing something warm and comfy but not too thick will be important. Not to mention you also want to wear something that won’t hold up the TSA line. Opt for slip-on shoes or sneakers, pants with elastic waistbands (no belts and complicated buckles), and a sweater, hoodie, or a top paired with a cute cardigan. If you’re traveling during colder months, wearing a lightweight coat and scarf is also a great idea.
Veja – Net Sustain V-10 Leather Sneakers
$150 – SHOP
Sam Edelman Evelan Chain Loafer Mule
$69.40 – SHOP
Vince Oversized French Terry Cardigan
$98 – SHOP
FRAME Crop Easy Hoodie
$178 – SHOP
AMIE New York Long Trench Duster Coat
$98 – SHOP
Formal Outerwear
Having the proper outerwear for formal events is essential. Most of us don’t like to outfit repeat for formal events, but different rules apply for outerwear. You’ll definitely need a great dress for weddings, galas, etc., but outerwear can make or break an outfit. You’ll need a piece that will match the length of your dress. Some suggestions include a faux fur shawl, pea coat, or a tailored full-length coat.
Julia & Stella For The Fur Salon Fox Fur Wrap
$626.25 – SHOP
Unreal Fur Faux-Fur Jacket
$333 – SHOP
Michael Kors Faux Fur Trim Wool Wrap Coat
$395 – SHOP
Maje Long Double Face Coat
$675 – SHOP
Stand Maria Long Coat
$529 – SHOP
Do you have these power outfits and pieces in your closet? What looks make you feel the most confident? We’d love to hear from you!
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