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If you’re low on cash or just unsure how to style yourself, these six basic clothing essentials will help you on your way. All six items are very versatile and can be suited for any occasion –business, casual, or cocktail wear (for social events). Jeans. They have been around for many years and won’t be going out of fashion any time soon. Black would be the basic go to clothing essential in this case, as the colour black can be transitioned into business or cocktail wear easier than a pair of denim jeans. But depending on whether you need business wear or not, denim jeans can also be dressed up for social occasions. All you need is the blazer and your outfit can be adapted from casual to something more sophisticated. For a social event, I would suggest the dressy singlet without the blazer, but if it’s cold of course opt for the blazer as well. For body shape, I would suggest a boot leg for those who are curvier than a skinny leg, as the wider leg allows your silhouette to appear more even. This doesn’t mean your curves will disappear, the top half will still be fitted but the legs will look straighter. This is only a suggestion as a basic, but of course venture off into different styles if you wish. Black bag. I would say a black is mandatory, you can always go with a pop of colour for your bag to brighten up your outfit –it’s up to you. Black is just conservative and is suited to more individual styles than a colourful one. You could always choose a neutral brown or grey if you’re not fond of colour but prefer something other than black. I would suggest a medium sized bag in a style similar to the illustration –boxy and structured but elegant, as you don’t know what you’ll need to carry. A smaller bag wouldn’t cater for all occasions as a medium sized bag would, but again it is up to you. You know what occasions you’ll be encounter on a daily basis, so cater for that. The B lazer. The Blazer is the heart of what makes your outfit casual or formal, so it’s a must have for business and formal wear. I would suggest a navy or dark grey, as a black will blend in with the other items I’ve suggested. It’s best to go lighter on top as it draws the eyes towards your face and darker on the bottom to hide any unwanted curves. A short blazer that doesn’t pass your behind (bottom) would be the most adaptable piece for all body shapes and sizes. The shortness accentuates the legs whilst being buttoned at the waist accentuates the hips. If you wish to differ attention from your hips or breasts, simple unbutton the waist. I would only suggest a longer blazer if you are wearing an outfit that ends just before your knees or a long top over skinny jeans. You must also lengthen your legs with heels if you are short in order to successfully pull off the long blazer. LAYOUT EXAMPLE / 14