As a Denver personal stylist, I know you probably don’t like shopping. You’re a busy professional, and when you have some free time, you’d rather spend it outdoors or with family and friends.

But you know how crucial your image is to your professional success...Wouldn’t it be great to know the great pieces other women have already tested? Clothes and shoes that’ll go the distance…they’re not weird, tricky or hard to fit?

Well you’re in luck! Even I love finding out what styles other women love. So today I’m sharing pieces that I’ve worn or my clients love, and I can bet you’ll love them to.

I’m sharing why each item is great and what to wear it with. Feel free to ask me any questions you have about the fit. 

While this post isn’t really about the power of basics, as I’m seeing it come together…most of my picks are great basics…total work horses for your wardrobe.

A Denver Personal Stylist’s Picks

(Psst…I may make a small commission from your purchase at no additional cost to you. Let me know if I can assist you with a purchase. Thanks for your support!)

Personal Stylist Pick: Denim Jacket

🏆 Winner: AG Robyn Jacket

Why: It’s got a great fit! It’s not boxy. Premium denim-it’ll last ya for years!

Wear it with: Well just about everything. Denim jackets are a great way to add some edge an otherwise too dressy piece. For summer, they’re cute over a sundress–far more stylish than the ubiquitous cardigan. Pop this jacket over any business casual pant or casual pant or even a skirt. It’s warm, but never overly warm. (Um, not sure how that works, but I’m a fan.)

🥈 Runner Up: Kut from the Kloth Helena Jacket

Why: Same as above. The denim and finishing aren’t as luxe, but it’s still a client favorit

 

Personal Stylist Pick: Black Blazer

🏆 Winner: Vince Camuto Black Blazer

Why: I’ve had this blazer for 10 years, and it’s still going strong. A great fit and classic length for versatility. And if you’re short waisted, like me, the length is perfect!

Wear it with: Well, ok again, just about anything. It’s perfect for business and can even sub for a suit jacket in a pinch. (If you need a serious/interview suit, I suggest going for a higher quality, matched suit.) I wear mine most often with jeans and a t or a camisole. My favorite look was belted with a flared skirt, a la Dior!

Denver Personal Stylist Pick: Shoes

🏆 Winner: Paul Green Cayenne

Why: I know what you’re thinking, “Dana, I don’t wear heels!” The reason these are a top pick is every client who has ever tried these on, buys them. That’s how comfortable they are, so if you love heels but don’t think you can wear them, give these a try.

Wear it with: So, despite these being so comfy, they’re not at the height of fashion right now, but then again, they’re not OUT. I love the idea of wearing these with shorts for an unexpected look! They’re also cute with a cute knit midi dress or a a sub for boots with wide leg jeans.

 

 

🏆 Winner: AGL Cap Toe Ballet Flat

Why: Another winner with clients. Ballet flats are a classic and are beginning a resurgence. A rigid sole like these are not only extremely supportive, but they also have that Audrey Hepburn look. An extremely good investment, I’ve had mine for over 10 years!

Wear it with: These flats are a natural with slim/skinny pants and jeans, but of course they’re great with trousers. I especially like this style with a flared skirt.

🏆 Winner: Vionic Classic Minimal Sandal

Why: Arch support, yay!!! I suddenly developed plantar fasciitis (which I’m SO over!) last summer. Believe it or not, I’d bought these sandals the prior year, and they’ve been one of the only shoes I can wear. The toe loop took a little time to get used to, but now they’re super comfy and supportive. I especially like retro feel of these sandals!

Wear it with: Like a lot of things in this post, these sandals can be worn with just about anything, minus a cocktail dress, LOL. I especially like to wear mine with a swingy sundress.

 

Denver Personal Stylist Pick: Tops

🏆 Winner: Michael Stars Maya V-neck Tank

Why: This tank is a nice, substantial weight fabric and is especially flattering for a large bust. The arm holes are cut in far enough to look chic but keep the “over 40 overhang” at bay. It also comes in lots of great colors!

Wear it with: It’s great on its own, casually but it’s also nice enough to wear as a layer underneath a jacket for a cool, casul, chic look. I don’t own it, but a client/reader actually turned me on to these and I’ve gotten them for a few clients. If you want to buy this in a real store, check out Evereve.

🏆 Winner: Ivory Pleated V Neck Shell

Why it’s great: My wardrobe wouldn’t work without this blouse! You’ve heard about “must haves”…I don’t necessarily believe everyone has the exact same needs, but this is truly my must have. It’s comfortable, fits well, and is super easy to wash.

Wear it with: At the risk of sounding like a broken record…this blouse literally goes with everything! Of course it’s perfect under any jacket, but I wear mine by itself with distressed jeans. Um, I might have it in black, too, LOL! BTW, White House Black Market usually runs a size big. I’m typically a M in tops and I wear this in a S.

After styling Denver women for almost 20 years, this definitely isn’t a complete list of client favorites, but it’s definitely a good start. The other great thing about MOST of these pieces is they can be worn for business casual OR casual, making it easy to get dressed no matter where you’re going!