The best way to stretch your wardrobe is to invest in basics pieces.
I believe every woman should have a good pair of black pants and a solid black pump in her wardrobe. It goes with everything, and will last longer (style-wise) than any other item you buy each season.
I’m not sure what the tall girls do, but if you’re short like me (I’m 5’2″) I recommend going to New York & Co., Banana Republic, Express, and even H&M for a decent pair of pants in petite lengths.
I kid you not, I have a pair of black pants from New York & Co. that I bought when I was 18, and they’re still a good pant (over 10 years later). They were pricey to me at the time, but they’re totally worth it if I can still wear them today.
Black pumps can be purchased anywhere. What I will put emphasis on is NOT to go out and invest in a hooker pump. Hooker pumps are pumps with a chunky platform on them. Nothing wrong with hooker pumps, but we’re not building our nightclub/turn up wardrobes. If you must get a pump with a platform, make sure it’s covered. If I’m calling them hooker pumps, what do you think your colleagues and/or clients are calling them?
#JustSayin
The following are looks that you can achieve with a black pant and pump. You can wear these looks in a casual office setting, or if you’re a graduate student that can no longer get away with oversize collegiate hoodies to class.
My pants are from New York & Co. and the pumps are from Nine West. I do have taller pumps, these are just the ones I grabbed when I decided to do an impromptu shoot. I’m in no way saying you have to wear baby heels.
Blouse: New York & Co. Black Cardigan: Old Navy Belt: H&M Necklace: New York & Co. Scarf: H&M
Cardigan: Banana Republic Necklace: New York & Co. Belt, Scarf and Blouse: H&M
Cardigan: Banana Republic Necklace: Charming Charlie (I’m not 100% sure)
Faux Leather Jacket: Forever 21 (yes, it’s from Forever) Studded Belt also from Forever.
Striped shirt: H&M (I bought this a WHILE back when the modified mutton sleeve was in).
Jacket: Forever 21 Necklace: New York & Co. Chambray shirt: Old Navy
Style & Regalia 