Tessa Faye O’Connell is a contributor known for her work at various fashion houses, specializing in media and public relations, currently working coach As its global PR director. She is the mother of two children, She is also working on expanding her influence in the fashion sphere through styling as well as stepping out on time.
When I was tasked with creating a basic capsule wardrobe so to speak, I was overwhelmed by the thought, How can I possibly fit everything needed into one neat article? That was until I realized that wasn’t the point – the point was to have a base of pieces as a basis for wearing clothes that can be mixed and matched with everything in your wardrobe. Sometimes you just need one anchor item to bring something together, no matter the season. There are certain pieces I have invested in and now rely on that have always served me well.
And the bonus is that they almost all mix and match with each other or can be layered with other pieces in my wardrobe or new pieces I bring in. As I’ve grown up, I’ve realized that this is the important question I ask myself when shopping: Does it fit with the foundation of what you already have so that you can actually wear it? I’m not saying I don’t love a fun thing, but I like to make sure I’ll actually wear it within the foundation of my wardrobe.
these pieces make Dressing’s formula is simple so that if I’m in a hurry (four days out of five I am) I can always come back to them and rely on them.
leather outerwear
(Image credit: Tessa Faye O’Connell)
This works when you want to dress up, dress up, or layer something. I’m wearing black but keeping an eye on chocolate leather styles to soften things up.
Improvement
Veda Sutton Jacket
almina concept
oversized faux leather jacket
Noor Hammer
Doran Paneled Textured Leather Jacket
st agni
Suede Utility Cocoon Bomber
black and blue jeans
My denim must haves: black denim (real black) and the perfect vintage blue pair. You can’t go wrong.
Levi’s
501 90s straight jeans
rainy season
(Image credit: Tessa Faye O’Connell)
This Rue Sophie trench that I’ve always had my eye on has become the best layer for everything. I’ve worn it with jeans and kitten heels for a little dressier look, but also over track pants for a more fitted feel. Size down for best fit.
Anyin Bing
Ricky Maxi Trench
Difference
oversized mac trench coat
totem
Organic Cotton-Drill Trench Coat
gray sweater
(Image credit: Tessa Faye O’Connell)
The gray sweater is anything but casual. You can wear it under a blazer or as a layering piece with jeans Sneakers for a rainy day. It is on rotation.
jamie haller
The Daily Sweatshirt
Great
college sweatshirt
perfectwhiteness
Alexey French Terry Sweatshirt
Mother
biggie concert
j crew
Heritage Terry Crewneck Sweatshirt
denim shirt or jacket
(Image credit: Tessa Faye O’Connell)
A denim shirt or jacket always comes in handy.
citizens of humanity
solan shirt
frame
classic denim shirt
pistol
BB Blouson Trucker Jacket
black sweater and trousers
(Image credit: Tessa Faye O’Connell)
Mom’s basic work uniform is a black sweater and trousers. Always chic.
j crew
Perfect Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Different
turn trousers
Shoes: Loafers, low heels, sneakers, chunky boots
(Image credit: Tessa Faye O’Connell)
Who’s Constantly Walking Around: Mini Black Loeffler Randall Heels, Sneakers, Jamie Haller Loafers, and the Perfect Chunky Black boots.
Loeffler Randall
odessa sandals
AEYDE
Daphne Heeled Flip Flop Sandals
margaux
marlo loafers
jamie haller
Penny Loafer in Black
Adidas Originals
samba og
Layering Pieces (Tees)
People don’t like to hear me say this, but I believe in investing in good layering pieces: baby tees that sit perfectly at the waist of your jeans or a slim-fit long sleeve that’s the perfect layer all winter long. It’s all about washability, durability and fit. You can find me wearing one of these all week long.
leset
Kelly Slim Fit Long Sleeve
midi to long skirt
(Image credit: Tessa Faye O’Connell)
Wear a midi skirt with a jacket or wear it with a t-shirt.
Improvement
Laila Silk Skirt
Anine Bing
bar silk skirt
everyday bag
I like something that slips easily over your shoulder but can also be worn as a work tote on the go. It lifts but doesn’t overdo it.
Mansour Gabriel
Mini Candy Hobo
Khaite
Lori Leather Shoulder Bag
Quarrel
Park Small Leather Tote Bag
button up shirt
Don’t forget the perfect button-down shirt!
j crew
Etienne Oversized Shirt in Lightweight Oxford
Wilfred
Reminiscent of the cozy poplin shirt
