Use the right pieces and construct a classic wardrobe

Accessories can turn a suit into an ensemble that works for all occasions.
SCRIPPS HOWARD
The suit is a wardrobe staple. It is that singular fashion statement that works on many levels.
In the corporate world it can project power. For church the suit is at its Sunday best. At a wedding it is the marriage of traditional and tres chic.
While these situations show the importance of a suit, they only skim the surface of its potential. With the right pieces and a little imagination one suit can stretch into a work week's worth of winning looks.
Most women have a basic black suit -- the one thing to throw on when they hate everything in their closet.
Styles run the gamut. The best ones are single-breasted and done in classic cuts. Ones with color-match buttons are preferred over those that don gold fasteners. A jacket with gold buttons doesn't blend as easily with other pieces; it's too memorable. You don't want the women in the office saying, "She wears that jacket with the gold buttons with everything."
A suit with two bottoms -- a pant and a skirt -- is the most versatile. It gives the wearer three pieces to mix and match.
Building blocks
Here are other building blocks of a work wardrobe:
UClassic blouse: This is an essential, whether it's done in crisp cotton or smooth silk. Long-sleeved, collared varieties are best. They work great under the suit's jacket and look dressy by themselves. At the top of the list is the white blouse. Fashion pundits have been singing this piece's praises for more than a few seasons. Why? It goes with everything. Put it with something black and you have a most fashionable color combo.
UFlirty skirt: It's fun and it's pretty. The flirty skirt loosens up the formality of the suit. Choose one with a whimsical print -- trendy polka dots, feminine florals or a punchy paisley. A long chiffon skirt offers a touch of romance, while a shorter style exudes contemporary edge.
USheath dress: Sleeveless and simple, this enduring silhouette is an easy piece to add to the equation. On its own it has a relaxed feel. Put the jacket over it and the result is a softer version of a suit.
Also, the dress is comfortable, especially in warm weather. A sleeveless layer is a cool idea.
USweater set: Although people are starting to dress up for work again, casual Fridays are still on the job. Put a sweater set with the black pants to create a laidback yet tasteful look. The set can also be used as separates. Place the shell under a jacket and use the sweater as a topper for other ensembles.
UAfter-hours top: All work and no play make Jill a grumpy girl. When our lady exec leaves the office for a night out on the town or a dinner with her sweetheart, she can team the same black pants with a fun top. It could be a shimmering, embellished sweater, an eye-catching evening jacket or an event blouse.
UAccessories: You've heard it once, you've heard it a thousand times -- Accessories make the outfit. An interesting belt can add personality to basic pieces.
The same goes for jewelry. Change it with each outfit. Since this could get expensive, mix the real deals with fabulous fakes.