Column: Back to the basics

I’ll be the first to say I rarely think about “basic” clothing. Though I usually opt for easy ensembles when I’m rushing to class (i.e., jeans and a loose sweater or tee), I’m not one to simply wear a “classic” white v-neck or button-down.

In fact, I’m not sure if I own either of those things.

When magazines feature “the five basics you need in your wardrobe” or “the versatility of the white button-down,” I usually flip to the next page.

It’s nothing I haven’t seen before, nor do I really want to wear a boring white shirt with anything. Maybe it’s because I wore one for nine years as part of my grade-school uniform, but I digress.

Something has changed, though. A combination of the season’s minimalist trend, my sudden desire for a streamlined wardrobe and my upcoming summer internship has made me realize the true necessity of basics.

But I’m not just talking any old basics — only the perfect basics will do. For me, it isn’t really your typical list; I won’t be dressing in suits every day this summer, but I still need to look polished and professional on the job.

For example, instead of the perfect white button-down, I’m more interested in the perfect white blazer. Ditto for black trousers — I’m partial to black cigarette pants — and a black tulip skirt instead of your average pencil.

Putting these little twists on the basics not only adds a trendy touch but also injects an oh-so-basic ensemble with personal style. There are thousands of women wearing plain blouses, black trousers and black pencil skirts every single day, but putting your own spin on those simple pieces will help you stand out as an individual in a sea of business casual clones.

The same applies to your casual weekend uniform of jeans, tees and sweaters. Contrary to popular belief, this is the time to invest in your wardrobe. You wear these favorites every week, and extra-soft T-shirts, perfect-fit jeans and stylish outerwear are worth the splurge.

Slim denim is the foundation of any wardrobe, and if jeggings just aren’t your thing, a chic, straight-leg style will do. Then add solid tanks and T-shirts in white, grey, black and your favorite colors (mine include mint green, pale pink and coral). Choose only the best high-quality fabrics. All-cotton shirts get holes after just a few wears, and synthetics such as polyester and rayon just don’t lay as nicely.

Accessories are also key to nailing the unique-but-still-pulled-together look, both on and off the job. Instead of buying a simple silver watch, try a slightly oversized gold-tone piece by Nixon or Michael Kors. After adding a few bracelets, you’re suddenly the most colorful girl in the room.

Instead of your standard black tote, try a colorful clutch or something a little more structured. Statement-making accessories enable you to get dressed in fewer than five minutes — that is, if you have a constant supply of perfect basics. You can just throw them on, grab a colorful bag or scarf and look effortlessly chic all day long.

­— emfarra@indiana.edu