Stylish Petite | Fashion, Reviews and Petite Style: Part 2: 5 Wardrobe Staples You Must Have

Back in October of 2010, I did a post- see here- about 5 petite staples that I think every woman, petite or not, must have in their wardrobe. I wanted to do a part 2 to this because there are 5 more items I want to add to this list!

1. A nude pair of pumps

Ann Taylor Perfect Exotic Pump (pumice stone)

In my first post, I mentioned that you must have a nice pair of classic black pumps which is still the case but black doesn't always go with everything. And a pair of nude pumps really can make a difference. My favorite pair is Ann Taylor Perfect Patent Pump. You can get away with a nude peep-toe for Spring and Summer which is what I like to do. I like the lizard peep-toe in pumice stone, perfect exotic pump, or Christian Louboutin Simple 100 in bone.

A 3-3 1/4" heel is ideal. The highest I would go for a business environment is 3.5" max. Any higher is borderline inappropriate for the work place. And the style of heel is important as well. You want to stick to classic heel, no stilettos!

2. Simple black pencil skirt

Part 1, I talked about a nice, tailored skirt suit and if it happens to be a black skirt suit, then you can re-use it for this category. No mini skirts, no A-line, or anything past the knee, just a simple, well tailored black pencil skirt. This is great for the work place and extremely versatile. You can almost pair it with everything and anything. Some of my favorites include Theory "Joanie"skirt (avail in 00), Petite Ponte pencil skirt (avail in 00) and this Darla Pencil Skirt.

3. A taupe/nude/beige colored purse/handbag

I have 2 black Chanels (one Grand Shopper Tote and a medium double flap) and one Louis Vuitton Alma handbag so it's nice to change back and forth depending on my outfit. Ideally, I would like a taupe colored medium lambskin flap Chanel purse with silver hardware (one of my goals this year). This purse doesn't have to be high end or LV or even Chanel but something that is a classic, preferably a beige/tan leather handbag or purse. Not every one of your outfits will match with black and one thing I cannot stand is the wrong purse w/a great outfit. Here are my suggestions: Louis Vuitton classic Alma handbag, Beige Chanel medium flap purse, or this quilted purse (Chanel-like for a fraction of the price)

4. A belt that fits (skinny is preferred)

Before getting my Ann Taylor perfect skinny belt in XS, I could never find a nice, well made skinny belt that fit my waist (23"). It was nearly impossible. A belt can add so much life to an outfit and totally transform it! A must have! Here are my suggestions: Perfect Patent skinny belt in XS, Harness buckle belt in XXS, or H & M belts in XS.

5. Flower Pin (or) Brooch

Everyone knows I am obsessed with my LOFT flower felt pins, pins/brooches in general. I think it's such a feminine and classy way to add some pizazz to your outfit. You can take a simple outfit, put on a nice pin/brooch and make it look totally chic. I couldn't find any online that I like as much as I like my LOFT flower felt pins but these corsage brooch pins are super cheap and come in 3 colors. H & M has really affordable and cute pins as well. Or check ebay for vintage brooches:)