It can be difficult managing a separate wardrobe for every season (and exhausting for your washing machine, too.) So why not keep around a few of those universal essentials that can work day or night, summer or fall? These clothing and accessory suggestions will get you on your way to crafting a year round wardrobe:
**Black elastic pants. Even if mention of the word elastic makes you squirm, consider for a moment, the benefit of having a simple pair of naturally slimming pants that match with virtually everything. Any long, stretchy black pants with a length at least to your ankles can fit into almost any outfit, and eliminate bumps and lumps that may show when wearing jeans instead. Wear anything from a tunic to a tank top with this versatile piece of clothing, even heavy winter jackets, and tucked into a pair of boots—if the bottom of the pant leg is slim enough. And because black goes with almost anything, you can dress it down with some funky jewelry and a baby doll top, or look professional and wear them with a nice pair of earrings and a collared white blouse.
**An in-between sweater. The “in-between sweater”, as I call it, is the one that somehow always ends up in the wash more often than any other thing I own, and makes it to the laundry room no matter what temperature it happens to be that week. It works in-between all seasons, times of day, and every outfit. It’s usually a simple color: white, black, maybe even navy. It’s cute. It has a charming appeal that compliments your figure by being the exact right size and fit. And, it has long, but relatively breathable sleeves that can guard against a chilly breeze, but also remain airy on those in-between autumn evenings.
**A house dress. May sound like something your grandmother would have owned, but can actually be anything you want it to be. It never hurts to have one piece of clothing around that doesn’t get dirty easily (in other words, can sustain a few days of use before washing), and is comfortable to wear around the house. I prefer sleeveless items, that I could easily slip a robe over if I get cold. Try a soft, cotton sundress or a cami set with a built-in bra. Think about what will keep you reasonably warm in the winter months, but light enough for warmer days.
**Chunky necklace. A big-beaded necklace, or one with a heavy decoration, is an all-year style. A good-sized ribbon necklace that laces in the back looks pretty over sweaters or on bare skin when you’re wearing a strapless dress. They always draw attention and can liven up any outfit—especially plain shirts that need a little eye-catching color contrast.
**Flats. Mary Jane-style shoes look nice with skinny leg jeans under a coat, as well as a skirt and halter top. They have that perfect innocence that looks great with jeweled studs and bows at the toes, which means they’re versatile, fun, and available in almost any color. Getting a couple of different pairs could be cheaper than buying just one pair of sneakers or boots, so think about how many different pieces already in your closet could benefit from a little style accent.