In October 2007, leading fashion magazine Elle published a feature in its U.S. edition entitled "Fashionina". In it, Nina Garcia, author of The Little Black Book of Style, takes fashionistas through 10 key pieces for any wardrobe, that are, according to Elle, “enduringly chic and never go out of style.”
Project Runway judge and Elle Fashion Director Nina Garcia recommends that readers explore their own fashion voice and guard against fashion faux-pas. Her book includes tips on where, when and how to wear an outfit and on combining textures and colors.
As with many "fashion lists" from the style gurus, their recommendations include the staple little black dress, white shirt and trench coat. Whilst these fashion rules never really change, Nina's book does give additional insights into designer tips and tricks that allows women to explore their own sense of individual style on a budget.
The reader is guided through 10 staple pieces of a woman’s wardrobe that transcend time and can be worn for day or evening wear, whether it be in New York, London, Paris or Rome.
The Little Black Dress (LBD)
Fashion trends come and go and hemlines move up and down, but the little black dress will always be stylish. In the words of the great designer Karl Lagerfield, “One is never over or underdressed with a little black dress.”
Sexy, glamorous and timeless, the little black dress is one of the most essential items in any woman’s wardrobe. Due to its versatility and slimming effect, it will flatter a woman’s figure and still allow her to demonstrate her personality through accessories which are updated every season. Teem it with shoes in the colors of the season or silver and gold, rather than just plain black.
The world’s most famous little black dress, as worn by Audrey Hepburn's in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany's, recently sold for a record £410,000, according to the Daily Mail’s article "Did Posh Buy Hepburn’s £410,000 Dress", 6 December 2006.
A Crisp White Shirt
Practical and versatile, with so many styles and cuts to choose from, a classic white shirt can be paired with jeans, well-cut black trousers or this season’s Silver Gray pants. Use it for covering up a bad outfit or unsightly bulges. Go for a men’s style for true chic.
A Cashmere Cardigan
With spring season’s floaty, feminine dresses, a cashmere cardigan is both practical and smart. Avoid hemline clashes with flowing maxi dresses by wearing a cropped cardigan. Cashmere is expensive but worth it! In the words of Fran Lebowtz, in "Fashionina", “I do not believe in God. I believe in cashmere.”
Denim Jeans
Few pieces feature more prevalently in a woman’s wardrobe than a pair of blue jeans. Relaxed, simple and sexy – denims can be casual or elegant, depending on how pieces are mixed together. Combined with a well-fitted white shirt, denim jeans can inspire classic elegance and style. A low-waisted pair is kinder to more mature women if they are podgy around the middle. Any expanse of overhanging fat can be minimized by buying a size up.
A Trench Coat
Very Audrey Hepburn. The trench is a timeless piece full of mystery and intrigue. Wear it with oversized shades for a look ultra-mysterious. Sexy over jeans or well-cut pants, the classic trench coat will take you from season to season.
A Classic Men’s Watch
This enduring piece is stylish and trendy. Whilst women’s watch fashions come and go, a classic men’s timepiece breaks the rules and makes an individual fashion statement.
Diamonds
More of the diamonds and less of the pearls. Designer fake or original, no problem. Wear them day or night, to spice up a casual outfit.
Ballet Pumps
For the times when common-sense must prevail over high-heeled chic. In the name of practicality, a pair of stylish flats are an essential element of any woman’s wardrobe.
High-Heel Shoes
A pair of classic black high-heel shoes are timeless, but don’t forget to be adventurous with seasonal colors. Impractical but sexy, a pair of ultra-high heels is a must-have to make any woman feel feminine and poised.
A Stylish Bag
In her book, Nina Garcia recommends that every woman should have a tote or shoulder bag, a clutch and a medium sized handbag. At least one timeless, classic bag in a woman’s wardrobe is a must. A great bag can really make an outfit, so choose one that flatters your body shape.
None of these keynote items need to be over-the-top expensive. Whilst the price tag on some of these items can be phenomenally high, with careful research, perseverance, patience and an eye for a bargain, there is no reason why such classic (or vintage) pieces can’t be found at affordable prices.
In the interview with Elle’s online magazine entitled "According to Nina", Garcia is asked what she hopes women will take away from her book. Her reply typically reflects the wishes of many women,“I hope they learn to be comfortable and confident.”
