Chan Chan Checked Trench Coat, $140

Strapped for cash and looking for basics? There are plenty of ways to style yourself up big and save a ton: channel your inner fashionista and start your year off by splashing out on the basics, and nothing more. Basic black, trenches, and pumps rule the scene, and lucky for you– they’re all easy to come by.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Shawl, $380

1. Luxury Shawl

Soft and supple, a cashmere wrap dresses up everything you choose to wear and even makes your oldest standbys new again. Wrapping yourself up in one is totally Parisian and a standby for anyone who lives in a Northern climate with a little chill. Even if you’re just heading out on a jaunt to Montreal for the weekend, it’s worth stashing away a modern Louis Vuitton Monogram Shawl in a cool and enticing tone.

Velvet Torch Ponte Sheath Dress, $58

2. Classic Black Sheath Dress

Sheath dresses flatter all figures, tastes, and budgets. Spending $100 to $1,000 makes no difference if you respect the golden rule– play up your assets. LBDs are perfect in worsted wool and soft crepes, especially if you toss on the above mentioned accessory in a fun color and let your glossy locks down.

KZ JerZey Turtleneck Mini Dress, $88

3. Turtlenecks

Don’t let the word turtleneck fool you: it frames your face and gives your bust a boost. Grab silky fabrics and delicate knits to drape on your frame; these tops won’t let you down. Layer one underneath vests and puff-sleeved button-ups for a little feminine touch, and don’t be afraid to embrace lighter colors like gray and rosy pink.

Nanette Lepore “Tantalizing” Trousers, $215

4. Tailored Trouser Pants

Wide-legged trousers are the hourglass woman’s dream. You can pair a gorgeous pair of pumps with them to elongate the lines of your legs, and the menswear-inspired elements will actually turn things up a notch. Try pairing a thistight top with wide-legged trousers or a shirt that shows off just a touch of décolletage.

Sara Berman for ASOS Patent Mini Trench, $216.70
5. Mini Trenches

If you’re going to buy one new item for 2008, let it be a trenchcoat. The shape is perfectly classic, but if you branch out and wear a cropped version, it will last through every season. Find one that guarantees fabulous cost-per-wear and invest!

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