Tim Gunn's Style Must-Haves for Every Woman

By Grace Gavilanes
Updated Jul 29, 2014 @ 8:15 am
Credit: Courtesy of Vivre.com

Happy birthday, Tim Gunn! The fashion consultant, who is best known as a mentor on Project Runway, turns 61 today. Gunn has worked as a stylist for years, and even took a stab at dressing the ultimate icon, Barbie, in chic separates back in 2012. Need help revamping your wardrobe? Let this style guru walk you through the basics you need to spice up any outfit.

Click here to see Tim Gunn's style essentials.

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Little Black Dress

Credit: Courtesy of Netaporter.com

Tim says, "When I'm asked, 'What's the one wardrobe must-have?' this is it. It's unbeatable."

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Trench Coat

Credit: Courtesy of Burberry.com

Tim says, "This is the one item of outerwear that looks as appropriate at the grocery store as it does at the opera. Furthermore, it's crying out to be personalized. Yes, the khaki belted trench is, indeed, a classic. But if it suits you, then why not try a shrunken version in red patent?"

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Classic Dress Pants

Credit: Courtesy of JCrew.com

Tim says, "Whether in black, navy, charcoal or chocolate, a wool or silk pant that falls straight from the widest part of your hip is a wardrobe must. It can be worn with a chic blouse or a cashmere sweater, and by adding a blazer you can wear this look anywhere."

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Versatile Skirt

Credit: Courtesy of DKNY.com

Tim says, "This is a skirt that you can dress up with a blazer or dress down with a denim jacket. The hem should be no longer than the bottom of your kneecap and no shorter than just above the knee."

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Fitted Blazer

Credit: Courtesy of Netaporter.com

Tim says, "No single item of apparel dresses up a look better than a blazer. You're doing Saturday catch-up at the office in a pair of jeans and a T-shirt, when your boss calls to thank you with an invitation to lunch. Can you think of a better save?"

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Classic White Shirt

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Tim says, "Whether paired with dress pants, a skirt, or jeans, this item is always polished and sophisticated. Just be mindful of the proper clothing maintenance!"

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Day Dress

Credit: Courtesy of NeimanMarcus.com

Tim says, "This is by definition a sportswear look, not a cocktail alternative. My style favorites are the classic shift (thank you, Michelle Obama), the never-fail shirt-dress, and the wrap (thank you DVF!)."

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Cashmere Sweater

Credit: Courtesy of Barneys.com

Tim says, "This is the only clothing item to which I attribute a "luxury" textile, because cashmere has become very affordable and can last years in one's wardrobe if properly maintained. It can be a cardigan, v-neck, or turtleneck, but please be mindful of crews-very unflattering on many."

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Perfect-Fit Jeans

Credit: Courtesy of Lagarconne.com

Tim says, "Why is it so difficult to find the right fit in denim? I find that the most universally forgiving style is a dark wash (this offers more versatility, such as going out at night) with a lower rise (fit your hips, not your waist), and that falls straight from the widest part of the hip. But in any case, TRY IT ON!"

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Alternative to the Sweatsuit

Credit: Courtesy of Netaporter.com

Tim says, "This isn't gym-wear; it's a walking the dog outfit that's easy, feels comfortable, and looks great. It can be jeans and a crisp white tee and a cashmere cardigan or a cotton jersey day dress. It's whatever suits your lifestyle and says 'casual' with sophistication."

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Trend Item

Credit: Courtesy of Vivre.com

Tim says, "Indulge occasionally in a $20 something or other."

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By Grace Gavilanes