By Liesel Schmidt
Investments.
For most of us, the word refers to things like real estate or stock options. But, in the world of fashion, it refers to those pieces that become foundational to a wardrobe. The ones that might cost more, but will be in use for years, outlasting all the trends that come and go and giving you a cost-per-wear that will make you want to post about it on Instagram. Don’t you just love girl math?
Anyway. These investment pieces could seem a little boring, but we’d much rather refer to them as classics. Because that’s what they are—standard items that will never be out of vogue. Think of them as the backbone of your style: dependable, flattering and endlessly adaptable. At Blue Bay Lifestyle Co., we believe that the most valuable pieces in your closet are the ones you reach for again and again.
The Perfect White Shirt
Who doesn’t love the look of a crisp white button-down? As simple as it is, this is one of the hardest-working pieces a woman can own. Whether paired with tailored Liverpool trousers for the office, denim for a casual lunch or even layered over a swimsuit (who would have thought?) for a day at the beach or lounging by the pool, it will forever be effortlessly chic. Look for quality fabrics and a fit that feels both sophisticated and comfortable.
A Well-Tailored Blazer
A great blazer works magic in elevating an outfit. Wear it with your favorite jeans from Liverpool, throw it on over a Lovestitch maxi dress or add polish to everyday basics like fun graphic tees. Choose neutral shades such as ivory, navy, camel or black, which offer the greatest versatility in styling them with pretty much anything in your wardrobe.
Elevated Denim
Jeans have more colors, cuts, rises and washes than most of us can keep up with, but
a flattering pair of premium denim jeans (we love Liverpool’s many options) will always earn their keep. Choose a style that works with your body shape as well as the demands of your lifestyle rather than chasing every new trend. Remember: Great denim should be like a great supporting actress—it plays sidekick to your of-the-moment statement tops, bold accessories and seasonal layers.
The LBD
The little black dress has held its place as a fashion staple for decades because of the simple fact that it just works. Whether you’re dressing for a cocktail party, dinner, a special event or a last-minute invitation, a well-cut black dress provides endless possibilities for styling. Swap out your shoes, jewelry and handbag, and that very same LBD can feel entirely new each time you wear it. Who doesn’t love that?
Quality Handbags
While trendy bags may be all over the pages of the glossies for a season, a beautifully crafted handbag—read: leather—maintains its relevancy for years. The classic shapes and neutral colors of Hobo bags complement any change in your wardrobe and offer exceptional value over time (remember that whole cost-per-wear thing?). The right handbag doesn’t just put the finishing touch on an outfit—it becomes part of your signature style.
Multipurpose Footwear
Whether you’d classify yourself as someone with a shoe “problem” or not, having a collection of timeless footwear that can carry you through pretty much every occasion and every situation isn’t a frivolity—it’s crucial. Think comfortable-yet-elegant loafers and refined sandals from Aetrex, classic girl boss pumps, supportively versatile sandals and clogs from Birkenstock, and sleek ankle boots—all of which keep your wardrobe grounded and on-the-go.
Here’s the thing about wardrobe staples: They’re only half the story. A great white shirt, blazer or pair of jeans gives you a foundation, but the fun pieces are what give your closet personality. That’s where we come in.
At Blue Bay Lifestyle Co., we love helping pair those timeless basics that you might already in your closet with colorful prints, statement accessories, beautiful handbags, great footwear and trend-forward pieces that keep your look fresh. Because while classics may never go out of style, there’s no rule saying they can’t have a little fun.
Visit bluebaylifestyle.com.
