To help you get to know me and my style more I thought I would kick off the blog with my top 10 closet essentials. To avoid having far too long a post I have the first 5 Closet Essentials today and the last 5 will be posted soon! You will see that some of the numbers call for more than one of the items because they are such important essentials that one of those items simply would not be enough! Versatility plays a huge role in my selection of my top 10 closet essentials. I can’t live without these items because I use them all the time! Below each item you’ll find links to three different items; the first a bargain (great item, low price), the second a treat (great item, higher price), and a third item (fabulous item, price wayout of my range!).

Feel free to comment below and let me know what you think!

10. Perfect Fit Dark Wash Jeans

Jeans are timeless. I have yet to meet a woman who does not own at least one pair. Most own several. I myself have quite a collection built up! However, if there is one style of jeans I could not live without are my dark wash jeans. Dark wash jeans are extremely versatile. I love to wear mine for a night out. They also work great for casual Friday at the office. Dark wash jeans act as a neutral. You can pair them with any color. Those tricky light blue tops (you know, practically the same color as your average jeans?) match dark wash jeans without trouble. Sweaters, button up tops, tank tops, blouses, blazers, you name it! They all go perfectly with dark wash jeans, making them an excellent closet foundation.

J Brand Denim dark wash jeans from net-a-porter.

Bargain: White House Black Market

Treat: net-a-porter

Only in my Dreams: Nordstrom

9. Black Pumps

Black pumps. Dress them up. Dress them down. Wear them with jeans, dresses, skirts, dress pants, even shorts! Black pumps are a classic look and they pair with so many things. My pumps are always front and center in my closet. Whenever I’m in a rush to get out the door and don’t have the time to mull over coordinating colorful shoes with my outfit, I throw on my pumps.

Christian Louboutin pumps from net-a-porter.

Bargain: Vince Camuto

Treat: Macy’s

Only in my Dreams: net-a-porter

8. Comfortable but Cute Ballet Flats

As much as I love my heels, there are always those occasions when heels just simply won’t do… a busy day at work, a long afternoon shopping, a family gathering. Sensible footwear can still be cute! A pair of black flats with a simple but cute pattern or a tiny bit of “bling” makes for a versatile and comfortable pair of footwear. Having a comfortable but cute pair of ballet flats ensures you will always look adorable even when you are comfortable!

River Island Ballet Flats from Asos.

Bargain: asos

Treat: Toms

Only in my Dreams: Saks Fifth Avenue

7. Many Colorful Lace Trim Camisoles

I wear a camisole under almost everything I wear (spare most dresses, although sometimes, they are a wonderful makeshift slip). So why am I specifying “lace trim”? Well, a lot of times, camisoles peak out from underneath a top. I like to have a coordinating (not matching) color of lace peaking out when that happens. When a regular camisole shows from underneath a top, it looks like a wardrobe malfunction; like the clothes don’t fit. With a lace trim, it adds a little more visual interest. It makes it look like you planned for the lace to peak out. Ultimately, it adds a simple touch of class to an outfit while sparing the embarrassment of a wardrobe malfunction.

Eileen Lace Trim Tank from Calypso St. Barth.

Bargain: Buckle

Treat: Calypso St. Barth

Only in my Dreams: Style Bop

6. Knee High Boots

By the end of August in New England I am itching for fall. Don’t get me wrong, I adore summer, however, once I see the boot displays in stores I cannot wait to throw mine on! My fall uniform always includes an awesome pair of knee high boots. I have both brown and black pairs. They are neutrals so having at least one of either black or brown boots would be great. I just cannot resist buying a new pair. I love pairing my boots with a pair of skinny jeans tucked into the boots and a cozy sweater. The streamlined look of a boot makes them look dressy while still being extremely comfortable. I even wear my black boots to work with a pair of straight leg black pants. Knee high boots are definitely an item I cannot live without!

Annie Shoes Rancho Boot from Endless.

Bargain: Endless

Treat: Endless

Only in my Dreams: Far Fetch

I hope you’ve enjoyed the list so far! What do you think will be in my top 5? What would be in your top 10 closet essentials? Let me know what you think! Stay tuned for the second half of the list!