25park.com Quick Guide answers, "What do I wear to that?"

Summer has finally arrived and with it comes a host of warm weather occasions and wardrobe decisions we have to make - office attire, graduation parties, bridal showers, outdoor charity events, and long, lazy days at the beach. Where does a girl go for advice? The internet can create information overload. Not only are there so many looks and sites to choose from, but is it appropriate for the occasion?

Fret no more, my friends. I recently learned of the Quick Guide on 25park.com, a new luxury online shopping boutique that offers a one-click solution for finding out what to wear for various occasions, such as my cousin's upcoming baby shower. Once I entered the Quick Guide section of the site, I simply clicked on the Bridal/Baby Shower icon and they showed me all the looks that are appropriate for that type of event. Unsure what cocktail attire means? Click on the Cocktail Attire icon to find out. Other Quick Guide categories include The Working Woman, Beach Attire, Rehearsal Dinner, Great Gift Items, The Pregnant Girl, Formal Attire, and many more.

25Park has all the summer 2009 trends including the gladiator sandal, one shoulder tops, sheer fabrics, sequins, ruffles and scarfs. They carry a variety of ultra chic lines including, Antik Batik, Michael Kors, and Elizabeth and James. In addition to selling women's clothing and accessories, 25Park also offers fashionable kids clothing.

There were so many pieces on the site I loved, such as this yellow Armory Top by Malene Birger.



Unfortunately, the prices don't work with my budget, however, I'll still bookmark the Quick Guide to get outfit ideas I can then translate into something more affordable.

Wardrobe Essentials

I was recently asked by Mary Marino, creator of The FLASHionista Report what essential pieces I would buy if I were starting with an empty closet. Personally, for me, it would include a lot of Spanx to keep my bum looking round and high. Once that was taken care of, I'd add the following "must haves":

1. First and foremost...establish a good foundation. A bra that keeps the girls up where they should be is A MUST. Where should they sit? Between your elbow and armpits (closer to armpits) is best. If your breasts are down near your elbows, no top or jacket will lay right and you'll look heavier than you really are.


2. A chic black trouser in a three season fabric.


3. A charcoal gray pinstripe trouser.


4. A pair of tailored jeans to be dressed up and worn with heels.


5. A pair of casual jeans to wear with flats or European tennis shoes.


6. Two crisp white button down shirts.


7. A tote bag in a neutral color.


8. A clutch purse in a neutral color.


9. One pair each of black, brown and camel dress pumps (I prefer at least a 3 inch heel as it lifts the behind. Yes, I'm all about the behind.)


10. A trench coat.


11. Two great blazers that can be dressed up or down.


12. A skirt suit or pant suit in black.


13. A pair of black or dark brown knee high boots.


14. A nice watch with a neutral band (black leather or gold/silver metal mix).


15. A little black dress.


16. One turtleneck, one v-neck and one cardigan sweater in cashmere or merino wool.


17. Three blouses in sophisticated prints and colors that make your skin glow. The rule is to have three tops to wear with every bottom you own.


18. A 3/4 length wool coat in a neutral color.


19. A sturdy umbrella in a neutral color.


20. Black tights.


21. Nude fishnets.

Keep in mind, the above items are just the basics - the bare minimum. I would then add onto that with fun creative pieces that speak to my personality.

No matter what you have in your closet, my best advice is to simply LOVE it all. Don't waste your hard-earned money on "almost there's" or "good enough's" because you won't feel good in them and then you won't wear them.

Best of luck!