As an Image Consultant, I work with many women who want a polished and refined look. If looking effortlessly sophisticated is your goal, there are some golden rules you need to know. This stylish look has stood the test of time for a reason. Here is the pro guide to having chic style and always looking classy.
7 Items For an Elegant Wardrobe
If you want to create a bulletproof elegant wardrobe, here are the 7 items you must have to pull off this timeless fashion aesthetic. These items can be mixed and matched to create a foundation for your elegant capsule wardrobe. These elegant clothes will have you looking polished in no time!
1. A Boatneck Sheath Dress
This Ann Klein fitted boatneck sheath dress is a staple in my closet. Its high quality and tailored look is versatile, elegant, and classy.
2. A Cashmere Turtleneck
This Banana Republic cashmere sweater is a must-have for an elegant classic style. Wear it with a skirt, pants and a blazer.
3. A Pencil Skirt
Another elegant must elegant must-have is this Express pencil skirt. Wear it the a cashmere sweater and blazer or with a silk blouse. It’s a staple in the elegant style work capsule.
4. A Silk Blouse
A silk blouse is another must-have in an elegant wardrobe. This stunning silk blouse from Lilysilk is a worthwhile investment that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
5. A Wool Trouser
A perfect-fitting wool trousers is an elegant style statement that is worth a spot in your elegant capsule wardrobe. This WHBM plaid trouser is a must-have if you want to be classy and elegant.
6. A Tailored Blazer
This elegantly sculpted Banana Republic blazer will send a message of sophistication and class.
7. A Wrap Dress
Every elegant woman needs a high-quality wrap dress. This elegant Banana Republic wrap dress is refined elegance.
What is Elegant Style?
First of all, let’s discuss the hallmarks of elegant style. Here’s the list of what you’ll need to pay attention to when buying clothing and planning your chic wardrobe:
Quality
Elegant style is luxurious and high-end. Fabrics are luxurious and usually made of natural fibers such as silk, satin, linen, and cashmere. Synthetic fabrics are on the higher end such as heavy-weight Ponte, Garments are well constructed, and finishes are polished. Even if you don’t have a large budget. With the right information, you’ll be able to spot high-quality clothing at any price point. I’ll discuss this in more detail below.
Fit
A hallmark of elegant style is fit. Elegant clothes are perfectly tailored. Comfort may be sacrificed for a fitted silhouette. Think pencil shirts, fitted blazers, and sheath dresses. Waistlines, hemlines, and shoulder lines are impeccably defined.
Color Scheme
Peek into the closet of an elegant wardrobe and you’ll discover primary colors such as white, black, navy, and grays. There will also be soft hues of pink, beiges, and light pastels. Monochrome is also a staple in the elegant wardrobe. Plaid, houndstooth, and tasteful textures elevate this look as well.
Understated Beauty
Since fabrics are luxurious and clothing is impeccably tailored, it goes without saying that elegant style shines on its own. This refined look is minimalistic. There are no bells and whistles here. This is a timeless, refined look.
Graceful Accessories
To complement this understated refined look, the devil is in the details. Accessories are used to “quietly” elevate the look further. These accessories are usually investment pieces that can be mixed and matched to enhance almost everything in your elegant wardrobe. Think of lux accessories, such as suede nude designer shoes, a large designer sunshade, and a quilted tote handbag. If jewelry is worn, it should be dainty and minimal.
A Groomed Look
Elegant style is about being polished. Hair should always be clean, fresh, and styled. Nails should always be manicured and skin should always be glowing. The no make-up makeup look is perfect for elegant fashionistas.
Next Level Elegant Style
As I shared above, lux accessories create sophisticated charm. Here are the must-have accessories for your elegant wardrobe:
1. Large black or brown sunshades
2. Medium heel suede pump or wedge shoe
3. Quilted handbag
4. Timeless dainty pearls
What Elegant Style is NOT
Elegant style is quiet, refined, and luxurious. With that said, let’s review what it’s not:
- Loud- no load prints, patterns, and colors
- Messy-no messy buns, oversized clothing and wrinkles
- Too Casual-no sweats, running shoes with socks etc
- Too Revealing- No plunging necklines, overflowing cleavage or micro-minis
Timeless Elegant Style On Any Budget-Pro Tips
While elegant style is known to be luxurious and high quality, anyone can pull it off. There is no reason to be intimidated when trying to achieve this sophisticated look. Here are some pro tips for achieving this timeless style:
Inspect Fabrics For Quality
- When buying synthetic fabrics from fast fashion stores, always do a quality check. Ensure seams, stitching, and buttons are intact. Check zippers to ensure they lay flat and work well. Inspect to make sure finishes look high-end and not cheap-looking. Buttons, for example, should look like horn or mother of pearls. Dyes, should not run and fabrics should feel soft and drape well.
- When buying clothing made of less expensive fabrics such as polyester and synthetic material, always buy these items in dark colors. Dark colors absorb light and minimize imperfections in fabrics, making them look more expensive.
Discount Department Store Deals
- You can find some incredible investment pieces if you know how to shop at discount department stores such as Off Saks, Bloomingdale’s Outlet, and TJ Maxx, just to name a few.
Know Your Retailer
Some retailers are well known for elegant fashion so you might as well go straight to the source. Shopping at these retailers will prevent decision fatigue and help you build a sustainable wardrobe. Some brands and retailers include:
Here are some fast fashion retailers where I have found some high-end dupes for my elegant capsule wardrobe
Glow With Chic Elegant Style
Elegant style is iconic and timeless. It’s no wonder many women admire this aesthetic and dream of having a closet full of elegant clothes. Add your personality by elevating the look with accessories that show your personal style.
While there are golden rules to follow, it’s important to add your personal touch to make the look your own. Again, while this is a refined lux look, anyone can pull it off by knowing how to shop for quality clothing. Now start with these 7 items to create the effortless elegant wardrobe of your dreams.
Resources to Help Clarify Your Style
I love a good quiz! Here is a great style quiz to help you figure out your own elegant style type:
