STYLE

Fashion

100 style essentials

From tees to totes, belts to blush, we've got all the fashion and beauty must-haves to keep you looking head-to-toe gorge, 24/7.
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  • top.jpg
    On top...

     

    1. A button-down shirt

    Always a sharp layering piece—dress it up or down. Opt for a white or floral one.

     

    2. Tees

    Printed, plain, v-neck or striped, a girl can never have enough tees.

     

    >> 3. A ruffled shirt

    A sweet, ruffly top adds texture and flirtiness to any outfit. 
    Nickleby bib top, $80, jcrew.com

     

    4. Tanks

    You can wear ribbed ones or camis under just about everything.

  • bottom.jpg
    On the bottom...

     

    >> 5. Skinny jeans

    Your go-tos: works with everything you own.
    Forever skinny jeans, $50, gap.com

     

    6. Trousers

    The wider leg and higher waist is super flattering. Love them in denim or pinstripes.

     

    7. Super dark jeans

    Officially dress jeans, but you can sooo wear them with sneaks, too. 

     

    8. White skinnies

    Super chic, and you can rock them way past Labor Day.

     

    9. Black pants

    Channel Audrey in a slim, tapered cut. Chic, clean and classic.

  • dresses-and-skirts.jpg
    Your best dresses and skirts...

     

    >> 10. A glittery number

    Every gal needs a super-fun sequined piece that makes you feel like a million bucks every time you put it on.
    Silence & Noise Lords Leaping Dress, $80, urbanoutfitters.com

     

    11. A little black dress

    An LBD can go anywhere, from you choral performance to a homecoming dance.

     

    12. A sweater dress

    Yep, you can look cute ‘n’ girly in the winter.

     

    13. An A-line skirt

    We swear: they flatter all body types.

     

    14. A pencil skirt

    Make it high-waisted and have it hit just below the knee. Fierce.

     

    15. A mini skirt

    Casually cute in denim for day or totally rockin’ in black for night.

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    On your tootsies: every day...

     

    16. Black flats

    Get two pairs—you can wear these chicsters all the time.

    >> 17. Red flats or pumps

    Way more versatile than you might think.
    Tommy Hilfiger Tacey Flat, $60 dsw.com

     

    18. Flip-flops

    Cute and comfy for strolling the boardwalk. Be warned: they’ll trash your feet if you wear them 24/7.

     

    19. Cute sneaks

    Hello, weekend staple. Non-sporty girls can opt for moccasins instead.

     

    >> 20. Flat sandals

    A strappy pair gives you a world-traveler vibe.
    Forest metal leaf detail chiffon tie sandals, $70, topshop.com

     

    21. Patterned flats

    Slip on floral flats and you’ll look like you put more thought into your jeans and a tee than ya really did.

  • shoes-boots-heels.jpg
    On your tootsies:
    boots 'n' heels...

     

    22. Knee-high boots

    Flat knee-highs look great with everything. Heeled ones are harder to pull off.

     

    23. Wellies

    Waterproof and a fashion statement—when else does that happen?

     

    >> 24. Ankle booties

    A mid-height heel is totally walkable and a wee bit rocker.
    Gloria Bootie, $175, dakotacollective.com

     

    25. A mid-height heel

    Shorter heels look just as polished and, um, you can walk in them without practicing.

     

    26. Major heels

    We could go on and on about our faves. If you have to just buy one pair, make them black patent. Next on the list is a pair of pink, nude and animal-print ones.

     

    >> 27. Wedges

    They’ll pair well with everything from jeans to skirts. A peep-toe pair is the perfect way to welcome in spring.
    Restricted Women's Bentley Peep-Toe Wedge, $90, endless.com
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    Bras to swear by...

     

    28. A shelf bra

    Just starting out? A light shelf is perfect.

     

    29. Slightly padded

    A lightly padded bra smoothes and adds a bit of oomph.

     

    30. A racerback

    Racerbacks hide bra straps from outside viewers. Tank goodness!

     

    31. A strapless

    Look for one with boning on the side and silicone strips along the top and bottom. They’ll help them stay put.

     

    >> 32. The girly bra

    Frilly details fun up an everyday fave and add a girly touch.
    Brooke Scattered Floral Plunging Push-Up Bra, $40, ae.com

     

    33. Sports bras

    They keep your breast tissue safe when you’re on the field. Absolutely mandatory the second you start to develop.

  • panties.jpg
    In your panty drawer...

     

    34. Everyday panties

    Cotton briefs are a comfy option, no matter what. Stock up when they’re on sale.

     

    35. Hipsters

    A low-slung pair hides away under low-rise jeans. Say no to panty peep shows!

     

    36. Boy shorts

    Fuller cuts work under everything from skirts to sweats.

     

    >> 37. Funsy

    Wear them every time ya need a pick-me-up.
    Smooth Stretchy Bikini in Stripes, $11, victoriassecret.com

     

    38. Seamless

    Got a fitted dress? Go seamless and avoid telltale panty lines. Phew.

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    In your sock drawer...

    39. Colorful tights

    Forget sheer. Dark tights add more life to summer dresses, and bright tights make black dresses and skirts way more fun.

     

    40. Black opaque tights

    Fab for when you’re dressing up in chilly weather.

     

    41. Wooly tights

    Adds a certain coziness to fall and winter skirts and dresses (though we wear them under jeans, too).

     

    >> 42. Knee-high socks

    Rock ’em with boots, not loafers, to avoid looking like an old Britney Spears video.
    Angora Lurex Over The Knee Sock, $18, urbanoutfitters.com

     

    43. Black leggings

    Possibly the most versatile piece in your closet. Rock them under dresses, skirts and tunics.

  • clutch.jpg
    All the bags you'll ever need...

     

    44. A weekender

    A cute bag you can sling from sleepovers to the slopes is a must. Look for something sturdy so you’re not replacing it all the time.

     

    45. A tote

    From books to beauty products, a carryall is a cinchy way to haul all for school days.

     

    >> 46. A clutch

    Makes a total statement for fancy nights out.  Just make sure you have a good mani before you show it off.
    Black Poppy Rocker Chick Clutch, $20, pacsun.com

    47. A mid-sized leather bag

    Definitely worth the investment—it’ll only get better with age. Hint: find one at a vintage or resale shop to save moolah.

     

    48. Black structured bag

    Dresses up jeans and goes with your frocks, too.

  • ring.jpg
    Things that sparkle...

     

    49. Dangly earrings

    Ups the flirt factor on your outfit—big time.

     

    50. Bangles and cuffs

    A single one looks posh, multiple ones look boho.

     

    >> 51. Statement ring

    All the bling you need when your dress has a lot going on.
    Kate Spade New York "All Wrapped Up" Large Bow Ring, $75, nordstrom.com

     

    52. Layered necklaces

    Pick one that’s loaded with texture, with ribbons and chains to quickly update any tee.

     

    53. Pearl necklace

    Whether it’s real or faux, every girl should own one (or two).

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    Belts, scarves 'n' more...

     

    >> 54. A skinny belt

    When worn around the waist, makes your middle look mini. 
    Scallops & Sparkles Belt, $32, anthropologie.com

     

    55. A wide belt

    Great for cinching over open cardis or a white shirt.

     

    56. A metallic belt

    Gives black tops and dresses a hint of shimmer and shine.

     

    57. A statement headband

    Adds a bit of whimsy to an everyday ensemble.

     

    58. Scarves aplenty

    Perks up outfits throughout every season. Thin cotton ones can be worn year ‘round.

     

    59. A summer hat

    We’re obsessed with wide-brimmed numbers and fedoras—keeps the sun off your face and looks a little bit exotic.

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    Cute toppers...

     

    60. A military jacket

    An olive green number adds instant toughness to whatever you’re wearing.

     

    >> 61. A menswear vest

    A borrowed-from-the-boys piece mixed with girly items will always look cool.
    byCORPUS Menswear Wool Vest, $20, urbanoutfitters.com

     

    62. A skinny cardigan

    When all else fails, a slim-fitting cardi saves the day.

     

    63. A hoodie that’s in good shape

    Nothing ripped, stained or stretched out. They exist!

     

    64. A chunky sweater

    In a neutral color like soft gray or off-white, it exudes coziness.

     

    65. A blazer

    Black, cropped, BF, pin-striped…snag one that suits your style.

  • jacket.jpg
    Awesome outerwear...

     

    66. A jean jacket

    Totally all-American. Great over summer dresses and skirts.

     

    67. A trench coat

    Classic khaki is fab, but don’t be afraid to try a bold hue.

     

    >> 68. A leather jacket

    Equally awesome atop jeans or a party frock. Faux is A-OK (and cheaper), too.
    Black Creased Crop Faux Leather Biker Jacket, $110, topshop.com

     

    69. A wool coat

    A black wool coat keeps you lookin’ sharp in the winter.

     

    70. Puffers

    Coats or vests—Karen the Editor’s number one pick, hands down.

  • peepers.jpg
    For your peepers...

     

    71. A shadow quad

    Morphs ya into a makeup artist in an instant. Purples flatter everyone, but grays are smoky-cool.

    Maybelline EyeStudio Eyeshadow Quad Purple Icon, $10, beauty.com 

     

    72. A pearly shadow

    Wakes up your eyes with zero effort. Doubles as a thick liner.

    Creaseless Cream Eyeshadow/

     

    73. Brown pencil liner

    Fills in brows, lines rims more subtly than black.

     

    74.  Black gel liner

    Tricky at first, but once ya get the hang of it? Pure retro genius.

    Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner, $21, bobbibrowncosmetics.com

     

    >> 75. Black mascara

    At the moment, we’re taken with Maybelline’s The Falsies. Crazy long lashes in a swipe.

    The Falsies Volum' Express Waterproof Mascara in Very Black, $5, walmart.com

  • lips.jpg
    For your pout...

     

    >> 76. Clear gloss

    Wear it alone or over a bold lipstick to make it less intense.

    BonneBell VitaGlossO2, bonnebell.com

     

    77. Yummy balm

    Rosebud Salve hydrates and keeps your pucker shiny.

    Smith’s Rosebud Salve, $8, urbanoutfitters.com

     

    78. Coral

    Every spring we’re thrilled to break out the coral after a winter of dark hues.

    Posietint, $18, benefitcosmetics.com

     

    79. Pink

    To keep it most wearable, snag a shade that’s within a couple colors of your natural lip color.

     

    80. Red

    Here’s the no-fail guide: Fair skin should go with pink undertones. Medium skin dazzles with terra cotta undertones. Girls with dark should nab gold ones. Done and done.

  • blush.jpg
    To keep that complexion glowing...

     

    81. Concealer

    Neutralize the dark area, but never go more than two shades lighter than your skin tone.

     

    82. Foundation

    Great for when you want flawless coverage. Remember: you’ll prob need diff formulas for summer and winter.

    CoverGirl Clean Oil Control Foundation Classic Ivory, $7, cvs.com

     

    >> 83. Blush

    Rosy tones are flattering on nearly everyone. Smile, apply to your apples and dash.

    e.l.f. cosmetics Essentials Natural Radiance Blusher, $1, eyeslipsface.com

     

    84. Bronzer

    Too dark or too sparkly are the kiss of death for this powder.

    Benefit Hoola, $28, benefitcosmetics.com

     

    85. Something shimmery

    Yes! A little highlighter on the outer corner of your eyes or upper cheekbones lights up your look for a night out.

    Make Up For Ever in Lift Concealer, $22, sephora.com

  • nails.jpg
    On your tips...

     

    86. A nude polish

    Match your skin tone for a crazy chic mani. This hue magically works on everyone.

    Butter London in Yummy Mummy, $14, Nordstrom.com

     

    87. A base coat

    Makes sure your polish stays in place and doesn’t chip away. Million-day manis.

    OPI Natural Base Coat, $8, drugstore.com

     

    >> 88. Candy hues

    Pastel polish adds a bit of girly fun to your mitts.

    Models Own Nail Polish in Pastel Pink, $8, urbanoutfitters.com

     

    89. Red lacquer

    Short cherry nails are always in style.

    Orly Haute Red, $8, beauty.com

     

    90. A navy polish

    Less intense than black, but still plenty of nighttime drama.

    Sally Hansen Nail Polish in Navy Baby, $7, cvs.com

  • hair.jpg
    Make your locks look amazing...after you shampoo and condition, natch!

    91. A dry shampoo

    Keeps locks lookin’ fresh on the run.

    Oscar Blandi Pronto Invisible Volumizing Dry Shampoo Spray, $11, folica.com

     

    92. A leave-in conditioner

    A total godsend: detangles and defines curls.

    Mixed Chicks Leave-in Conditioner, $18, drugstore.com


    93. Hairspray

    Pass by anything too stiff and pick up a can of Elnett.

    L'Oreal Elnett Extra StrongHold UV Hair Spray, $12, target.com

     

    >> 94. A beach spray

    Helps ya land summery waves in any season. Simply apply to damp hair, braid locks and sleep on it. Shake it out in the a.m.

    Sedu Beach Beauty Sea Salt Texturizing Spray, $10, amazon.com

     

    95. An anti-frizz serum

    John Freida’s life-saving product means you never have to battle frizzies again.

    John Frieda Collection Frizz-Ease Hair Serum Original Formula, $10, walgreens.com

  • skin.jpg
    Keep your skin gorge...

     

    96. An SPF lotion

    Get a moisturizer for your face and one for your entire bod. Use liberally—daily.

    Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock Lotion SPF 30, $10, walgreens.com

     

    97. A tinted moisturizer

    Makes skin look alive when you wake up a little pale (or tired).

    Physicians Formula Mineral Tinted Moisturizer Light to Natural 1123, $11, cvs.com

     

    >> 98. A moisturizing body wash

    The ones by Bath and Body Works make your shower smell amazing.

    Signature Collection Classics in Sheer Freesia, $11, bathandbodyworks.com

     

    99. A face wash

    Use a super mild formula to avoid irritating skin.

    Olay Gentle Foaming Face Wash Sensitive Skin, $5, cvs.com

     

    100. Spot treatments

    Pop this on as soon as you feel a zit coming. 

    Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatment, Vanishing Formula, $7, drugstore.com

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by GL | 2/1/2016
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