Your closet must always have classic fashions. No matter what your personal fashion taste is, you can never go wrong with those basic items of clothing that that can be dressed up for an evening event, or dressed down for a casual look. Also, classic clothing can be accessorized for an updated look by adding current jewelry, a bold scarf, or a chic belt.



It is better to know the difference between styles that are classics and styles that are simply trends. Classic styles are those items of clothing that are traditional and have a long lasting look, like the little black dress, the tailored suit, or the slim pant suit.

When you have classic fashions, you can go anywhere at any time. Especially when you select well-made pieces in good fabrics, they tend to last longer with each wear. In addition, they tend to feel and look better when you wear them.

Look for lightweight fabrics in natural fibers like silk, wool, and wool gabardine, cotton, linen, and cashmere. Many of the quality man-made synthetic fibers are suitable for long lasting wear. Make sure everything fits, especially your tailored pieces. Though, when alterations are necessary, for a better fit, it may be worth the time and money to visit a tailor or an expert seamstress.

For those of you who are hooked on the everyday casual look, you can still dress in your own way. Try adding a tailored jacket with your jeans, or a jean jacket with a good T-shirt and tailored skirt.

Classics don't have to be boring. Showing your creative side, why not wear an ethnic or artful scarf to give the classics your own unique style. Think about an African print tunic, a wide bracelet, or a Jade pendant.

Classics are also good for the budget conscious. Since classic clothing lasts longer, you will make fewer trips and spend less at the malls. With just that little black dress or a solid color suit, you can add a bold colored scarf, several chain necklaces, a three-quarter tunic, or different belts to create many new looks.

Here is a test...

With the wardrobe you now have in your closet, how many can be counted as classics? Do you have . . .

O At least one, three-piece suit consisting of a jacket, skirt and pants in a solid color.

O A navy blazer -- it makes an impression.

O At least one white shirt -- nothing beats a long sleeve, crisp cotton shirt.

O At least one pair of solid color slacks - can be paired with any top or jacket.

O Jeans -- Keep them clean and pressed.

O One little black dress -- All hail to this one item that can go day to evening.

O Formal wear -- Can be elegant separates that can be mixed and matched to make different outfits.

O An all-weather coat. The trench coat will always be a true classic.

O A smile - pulls your whole outfit together.

O A positive self image. Confidence and pride works wonders.

As long as you know the difference between the styles for daytime casual and evening elegance, your choice of fashion will be in agreement with the appropriate occasion. Fashion style, fashion etiquette and good taste then, are the answers to the fashion question.