A great wardrobe needs three things, according to local fashion expert Felisa Insignares: investment pieces, items that will make an impact and a few that are “on trend” for a season.
And no need to travel the globe for these elevated fashion pieces. You can find new, gently-used and vintage couture at Designer Items and More, Felisa's designer boutique in Olde West Chester. The boutique features designers like Akris, Armani, Christian Louboutin, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Valentino and more.
“Every woman is so unique, and depending on who she is and her lifestyle, there might be specific occasions where she wants to feel her most confident and look her best,” Felisa says. “And that is empowering…Fashion should be an opportunity to bring joy to women’s lives.”
What are investment pieces?
Felisa: An investment piece, like a great power suit, is something you’re going to wear year after year. They look terrific, have longevity, fit well and will give you that confidence to ask for that promotion or nail that presentation. You want the pieces you wear to empower you. A lot of my clients invest beyond their suit as well. You’re going to wear it year after year, and if you do the math, it basically pays for itself.
Invest in:
+ Power suit
+ Little black dress
+ White blouse
+ Great pair of pumps and boots
+ Designer handbag
+ Jeans
What are impact pieces?
Felisa: Now that we have social media, everyone is taking photos, and there are times that you’re going to be photographed and seen by hundreds and maybe thousands of friends. So, you ask yourself, “Do you want to make an impact? How many eyeballs will see this?” These types of standout pieces will not only make you feel great, but they also celebrate and embody that moment. The fabric and the fit should make you feel radiant.
Moments for impact:
+ Mother of the bride
+ Anniversary dinner
+ High school reunion
+ Awards night or annual gala
Q: What are trendy pieces?
Felisa: Trend pieces are the ones that I typically tell my clients they don’t need to spend too much money on. It’s fun, it might not be around next season, but you get a chance to be a part of that trend piece. They might be a fad like feathered earrings, or they may have lasting power like skinny jeans. If you’re not absolutely in love with it, but you want to be a little trendy, then go for it and add a few of these pieces to your wardrobe. And if you don’t love, skip it. There’s always going to be another trend around the corner.
Fall trends:
+ Luxury/exaggerated fringe
+ Animal prints
+ '80s resurgence: big shoulder pads and neon
+ Bows