When building a wardrobe there are some basic points you’ve got to hit first. This is what I like to think makes a wardrobe more than just some random stuff you collect from stores or as I like to call it: hobo-chic. Avoid hobo-chic with the following shopping guide.

Pencil skirt | Work trousers | Blazer | White button-down shirt | Jeans | Cashmere sweater | Suit | Little black dress

Oh and here! For pure giggles and shoots, I’ll throw in my brand of basics I find indispensable in my wardrobe:

Long sleeve, v-neck top | Cardigan | The tank (or three) | Opaque tights | Smoothing undergarments

From here you can build on top of it how ever funky or traditional you choose to make your wardrobe statement. Beware! You don’t exactly want to skimp on the basics because you need these pieces to last through years of wear. Ensure your basics are made mostly of real (non-man-made) material and if you can and afford it. If you can’t, it’s okay. Just be sure to try things on to see if they are too itchy or too uncomfortable to pull off a full day’s wear in them.

Once you get the hang of this, it’s very addictive. It begins to be clear how women have become notorious clothes shoppers. It’s not worth going into major debt over, but a good wardrobe is an investment. Make wise purchases and always keep the receipt, because if it comes down to a new cashmere sweater or your dinner always opt for the full stomach!