Anything but Basic

Maece Seirafi

February 10, 2012 By Ms. Brown
Little black dress? Check. Great pair of jeans? Of course. Crisp white button-down? Yep. Sleek pencil skirt? You bet.
Cashmere sweater, camel coat, classic trench and a fitted blazer? YES!
By nearly all standards, these are the essentials of any woman's wardrobe, the most direct path to style nirvana. And while we certainly agree, we also believe that a woman's wardrobe is never truly "done." (There's always another must-have coat or pair of jeans.)
The trick is to find pieces that are a bit less expected, but still just as timeless. To help us discover some off-the–beaten path classics, we talked to Ms. Brown, the style-savvy M&M who's a pro at standing out in subtle ways. Keep reading to steal her tips and tricks.
Up the elegance in wide-leg trousers.
Worn with heels and a more fitted top, a pair of palazzo pants is a refreshing alternative to your typical dress. "The more swing they have in them, the better," says Ms. Brown of the style that Hollywood's leading ladies made popular in the late '30s and '40s. Look for a pair that's tailored, but still lightweight enough to have movement.
Get a new attitude with a moto jacket. (Vroom, vroom.)
While a head-to-toe biker look is a bit too costume-y, a fitted motorcycle jacket in lightweight leather is the perfect way to add a little edge to otherwise feminine pieces, Ms. Brown tells us. She suggests looking for a cropped version with minimal detailing, which will make it easier to dress up or dress down. You'll be a rebel—with a cause.
Slip into something more comfortable.
"A flowy slip dress is simply heavenly," says Ms. Brown of this versatile essential. Opt for a maxi length and a silhouette that's drapey, but not too clingy. ("It shouldn't look like a nightgown," notes Ms. Brown.) In warmer months, the breezy piece helps you stay cool, and during colder climes, you can pair it with a chunky cardigan and boots for an instantly effortless look.
Sign off on a signature color.
You've got all your neutrals—black, white and camel—covered, so to brighten up your wardrobe, Ms. Brown recommends splurging on a luxe silk blouse in your signature color. "Every woman should have a signature shade that she's known for," she says. Whether it's a rich jewel tone or a soft pastel, your hue should be one that both flatters and reflects your personality.
Related in StyleToday's trends from real women Gotta have it: Glo's latest obsession Where celeb and street style trends face-off