Back To Basics: Part 4

Today is my last Back to Basics post! In Part 1 I discussed what constitutes a basic wardrobe and gave you dolls a simple check list. Part 2 described very simple vintage silhouettes and how to look for them when shopping in a regular (as opposed to vintage) clothing store. My favorite post, Part 3, gave suggestions on how to put together foundation items with a little color to create vintage inspired looks on a budget. So today in Part 4 I will continue helping you build your wardrobe including summer clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

Ah summer, my favorite season. This is the perfect time to wear those vintage summer frocks you have been lusting over on Etsy. I would start with one or two vintage dresses in good condition that you absolutely love. Then I would get some summer sandals like espadrilles, a new purse- maybe something in straw or wicker, and be sure to get a sun hat! No need to get wrinkles. Everything else on your basic check list should also work for summer, so you don't need to spend a lot of money in order to fill out your wardrobe. For example, if you have a simple pencil skirt, it would coordinate nicely with a 1940s peasant blouse. Capris would work as well.

Now lets talk jewelry. I find jewelry to be the most personal thing a woman can purchase. But to get you started, here is a basic list of items. And to be clear, when I say 'pearl' or 'diamond', I don't necessarily mean the real thing. I happen to like Banana Republic's faux earrings, which are linked above. I didn't add a pearl necklace to the list because I never wear mine-too stuffy, but if you love them then I say go for it! In addition, for bracelets you can always buy vintage bakelite or some other plastic bangle.

And there you have it! So now you should have a much easier time finding vintage inspired basics without spending a lot of money. Just remember:

1) Pick one color: black, grey, navy, or khaki and buy all of your basics in that color.

2) Once you have most of your basics, then you can start to add color.

3) Study the shapes of the periods you like the best so you can easily spot something in a regular store.

4) Take pictures of your garments on your smart phone so you can refer to it when out shopping.
This will keep you from buying something that doesn't go with anything in your closet.

5) Once you have your foundation garments you can expand into fun vintage dresses and other items unless you find a great basic that is also vintage (like a vintage little black dress).

6) Start with basic jewelry and then expand.

I hope you all enjoyed this series. If you have any questions feel free to post them in the comments or on Facebook.