2016 is the Year of Casual Elegance — a mix of crisp, long blouses or soft tunics, signature jacket, thick leggings, and sexy flat shoes or booties. Go full on with the accessories — an arm full of wide metal bracelets, layers of long necklaces, statement glasses, a chic handbag. The aim is to look fresh and modern, while feeling honest and comfortable in your clothes, like you could step onto an international flight to the other side of the world.

Be a smart shopper only adding key pieces to your wardrobe after careful consideration. Your closet should be sparse, not cluttered. Every piece matters. Not a bunch of junk!

Advanced Style Fashionista

Source: AdvancedStyle.com

Here are some must-have wardrobe additions for 2016:

 

JCrew Cashmere

J. Crew Cashmere Chunky Turtleneck Sweater

Why do I love this look (above) so much? Because she looks so cool and comfortable. The sweater is modern because of the high turtleneck, loose fit and ribbed waistband. Paired with interesting, loose-fitting wool pants and stylish sunglasses you can go anywhere — from lunch with the ladies to a walk in the park.

Soft Sur Lace Tee

Soft Surroundings Madame Lace Tee

I’m always looking for comfortable tunics that bring a punch of color. Soft Surroundings has ingeniously added a wide band of lace to the bottom creating a long tunic. The color is divine! Accessorize with layers of long necklaces and you’re set to go.

Leggings Over 50

This Is How To Wear Leggings

For anyone who doubts whether she can wear leggings, here’s your answer. YES YOU CAN! Buy a thick, structured legging (Some popular brands: Lysse, Tart, Hue, Eileen Fisher) and wear them with a long blouse or tunic top and plenty of necklaces or gorgeous scarf. You can wear leggings with flats, heels, ankle boots, or tall boots. Just remember the rule: leggings are not pants, so you have to cover your crotch and bum completely!

Sweater Dress_SouthernHospitality

Wool Sweater Dress Source: Southern Hospitality Blog

A sweater dress in a beautiful color worn over leggings and boots is a comfortable, attractive way to step out and stay warm in winter. Wrap a colorful scarf around your neck and you are confidently dressed for anything! Blogger, Ronda (above), has great style, and she is a thrifty shopper, sharing all her bargain finds with her readers of Southern Hospitality Blog.
Michele Obama Marigold

Narciso Rodriguez Dress

Michelle Obama made headlines at the State of the Union Address this month wearing what some described as yellow, orange, mustard, etc. The designer, Narciso Rodriguez, described the color as “marigold.” In any case, the dress sold out that night on the Neiman Marcus website at a bargain price of $$628 (original price $2,095). Why? Not because of the simple sheath design. It was the amazing color! Everyone was mesmerized by this pop of color, and it made Michelle’s skin look radiant. That’s what I call Confident Dressing.

Conclusion:

So, here’s what could be on your list of must-have winter fashion purchases:

  • Leggings
  • Tunics and/or long blouses
  • Trendy turtleneck sweater
  • Sweater dress
  • A simple dress in a gorgeous pop of color
  • Lots of accessories

Please share what’s on your must-have shopping list this year!