Please can we talk about "key" clothing (I don't mean "vital"..)

[SeymourButz]

by that term. For me a "key " piece of clothing is one where it opens up loads of new outfits.

I think that completely depends on your body shape and on what you already own, surely?

yes, sure, just wondering what people have found these to be in the past.

Has one item of clothing ever transformed your wardrobe in that way?? Dunno, certainly hasn't mine.

Bumping thread cos I'd like examples!

For me it is short tie front cardigans
in different colours like the ones in Kew and also jewellery.

Oh yes and good knee boots

new shoes or boots can do that, I can't think of anything else tho

AH well i was thinking of my new knee boots.

Knee length boots changed my life.

This winter I have found that a pair of well-cut wool trousers in a dark neutral colour have been very versatile as they go well with all my jumpers and cardigans and blouses.

I also like long cardigans and pashmina-type shawls/stoles as they can liven up an outfit.

Dark blue jeans are always useful and go with so many things.

OH yes to well cut wool trousers. Do that smart cas thing well.

When I saw "I don't mean vital" I thought you meant tops and things with keyholes cut out!

Agree with the knee boots thing.

Patterned and coloured tights
Denim skirts (go with everything)
Vest tops - to wear under things that are low cut,as nearly everything is

yes, was going to say finding a denim skirt that flattered my size 18 frame. and nice knee length boots. In fact I often base an outfit around shoes or boots.

adn the layering items yes well done

denim skirt too

Long-sleeved T-shirts in a variety of different colours, I've bought a few pretty cheaply over the last year or so and find I wear them under nearly everything at the moment.