Nothing spells basic better than a pair of blue jeans — skinny, bootcut, boyfriend or straight — and they complement all your top-wear, be it shirts, T-shirts or even kurtis. Jeans are so low maintenance that they can be paired with any kind of footwear as well, they even make flip flops look good. Go for dark colours for a slimming effect.
In black or nude, a good pair of pointed high-heeled pumps can add oomph to any outfit. Save up and invest in a good quality pair, preferably in leather. Try on several pairs till you find the one that's the most comfortable on various surfaces like wood, tile or carpet. These shoes sure are made for walking.
Jazz up your boring old, plain T-shirts and blouses with a scarf. Light, breezy summer scarfs can be brightly coloured and double up as a hair accessory during the hot months. A knit or wool scarf in winter can keep you warm and stylish (think Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock). Experiment with different wrapping styles as well for a unique twist!
Although we first turn to our mobile phones for the time, a watch is still an essential part of our wardrobe and can speak volumes. An over-sized one gives you a casual look, sport a bracelet watch for a feminine touch, and one with a brown strap is a classic.
Amal Clooney, Jennifer Aniston, Helen Mirren and Jennifer Lopez had one thing in common on the Golden Globes red carpet: they let their ears do the talking. The right pair of earrings is the only accessory you need to add sparkle and glamour and instantly transform a day outfit to one that's ready to party all night. Make sure they frame your face right and keep your hair sleek and pulled up to show them off.
Saris are not just for traditional events any more; a crisp cotton sari paired with ethnic jewellery is perfect for office, and a glam designer one works well for a cocktail evening. Silk is always in and there is a world of fabrics like linen, chiffon and tussar to choose from. It is said there are more than a 100 ways of draping a sari, so get practising (they also have a very slimming effect).
Bra shopping might be intimidating for some; don't hesitate to go and get yourself fitted for the right size and type. Stock up on the basics like T-shirt bras, sport bras and camisoles, but at the same time, pick up some lacy ones as well. Seamless underwear might seem unnecessarily expensive, but you will be glad for them when you're wearing those figure-hugging pants or bodycon dress. Corsets and body shapers will help give a smooth silhouette.
They're not just used for holding up your pants or jeans, when worn right, they can help create even a non-existent waistline. Wide or narrow, belts can be used to add character to a shift dress or a loose shirt. Have a basic one in black or brown, but don't think twice about picking up that studded belt for the days you feel like a punk rocker.
If you're the type who oversleeps, prefers to get dressed in a hurry and takes a very short amount of time to get ready, then the red lipstick is just the finishing touch you need to put your outfit together. There's a reason why all stylists suggest a crimson pout to up your look. Choose one that complements your skin tone.
Flats may sound drab but the right ones can not only make your outfit look classy but they can offer comfort unlike walking around all day in pumps. A pair in black or nude can be teamed with numerous outfits, but those that include a glint of gold or silver can easily be transitioned into evening wear.
A white shirt, like a pair of jeans, is a good investment and offers endless possibilities for styling — throw a blazer on for a semi-formal look, or drape a funky stole around your neck for effortless style. Slap a pair of pants or jeans or even a pencil skirt and you're set for years! (Upgrade to the striped Breton shirt if you find the basic white look rather boring.)
A not-too-fussy, simple bag can elevate your style, however non-existent it may be. If you're not a fan of bright colours and wild prints, get a simple crossbody bag in black that is the right size between a clutch and a tote.
While black leggings aren't pants, they are quite handy. You can team them up with a kurti for an Indian look or an over-sized top with ballet flats for a chic, breezy look. Make sure you buy one with a mix of lycra, as flexibility is quite important and they're so comfy they double up as PJs.
Timeless and undeniably stylish, blazers can even make distressed jeans look good. You can wear them with anything from pants, skirts, dresses, jumpsuits and even shorts. While a basic black one is best left for work, experiment with sequins, textures (leather or denim) and colours to upgrade your closet.
