Trench CoatA coat is an investment piece so don’t shy away from a higher price tag. You want a well made, good quality trench that is tough enough for a downpour and stylish enough to wear with a dress for a dinner date or suit for an interview.

Look for a trench that has a hem that hits around your knee, you’ll be able to wear it with more in your wardrobe if the hem is longer. A trench with a removable liner is even better since you’ll be able to wear it during the colder months.

A coat is meant to protect what you wear underneath and a trench should specifically be simple in style yet still fit well. Avoid all the bells and whistles of a trench that may have too many zippers, buttons or a bright pattern. A belted style is far more flattering. A good trench in a neutral color should last you 3 years or more.

Burberry long trenchcoat, $1495 at saks.com >

White ShirtThe white button down shirt is a must have for every woman’s wardrobe. Look for a style that fits your body shape and is long enough to tuck into pants and skirts. When you find the right style, stock up by buying two at a time. White shirts need to be bought each year due to makeup mishaps and yellowing stains that eventually don’t wash out. You can buy styles that range from the classic man-tailored to those with feminine ruffles, pleating and various sleeve lengths. Wear yours with pants, skirts, jeans and layered under sweaters and dresses.

slim stretch shirt, $59.50 at jcrew.com >

Little (Black) DressThe little black dress has been synonymous with style since Coco Chanel made it famous 80 years ago. And Audrey Hepburn helped make it a classic with her choices in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. These days, your dress doesn’t have to be black to be versatile and ultra-chic. Neutral colors and subtle prints work just as well. Be sure to choose a flattering, elegant style that can be dressed up or down with different accessories including boots, sandals, belts, scarves and jewelry.

David Meister bubble sleeve dress,
$248 at nordstrom.com >

Fitted Knit CardiganThe ultimate layering piece, a cardigan can replace a jacket when worn with a dress, add a colorful accent when tied over your shoulders or create a slimmer figure when paired with a skirt. Wear the cardigan alone with a scarf or layer it with a t-shirt or button down. Add a wide or skinny belt at your waist over the cardigan for a step up in style, to define your waist and add a pop of personality.

Lux Santa Cruz cardigan, $48 at urbanoutfitters.com >

Short Sleeve TeesStock up on solid t-shirts in predominantly white, but also add in a few other colors that can be mixed into your wardrobe. Specifically shop for styles that are cut longer in length since so many of us own low rise jeans and pants and find it uncomfortable when we bare a bit of our backside. Buy various styles like crew neck, v-neck, boatneck and ballet neck.

James Perse casual tshirt tunic, $76 at shopbop.com >