Don’t forget the classics – item two

It’s the little things that can make all the difference. We started with our core item of black trousers, see here, but now comes a tiny one, or two (actually maybe three!)

2  Core item – the cami

Ok, it’s not so exciting but it offers great possibilites and they are nearly always missing in clients wardrobes. They are important in so many ways – under chiffon for a coloured base, to add a strip of zing along the hem of a shorter top or just the classic use, under a v-neck or shirt, great for a colour boost and cleavage modesty! We should still buy quality but the high street stores do them well at pretty low prices.

Next’s version works, with a soft cottony feel,  95% Cotton, 5% Lycra. . Available in many colours in regular length or the classics (black, navy, white) for Tall and Petite, £4.50 each (or two for £8). In sizes 6-26 although some colours are very limited in sizes left.

Next layered vests

Next warm cream vest

Marks and Spencer have a similar offer, £5 each or two for £8. Their vests contain a higher percentage of Lycra, with 89% cotton, and 11% elastane so the feeling is finer overall, with a longer body length, they will sit lower under tops.

Marks and Spencer vest top

Another essential version is the double front vest top, which smooths the front silhouette and wider straps cover a bra. Jigsaw has a perfect one in a classic colour range, 95% cotton and 5% elastane, £29.

Jigsaw double front vest

For a lacey egde, to add a feminine touch to simple knitwear and under shirts, Jigsaw have this vest in the classics shades and gorgeous colours of rich teal, karki, plum or soft rose, £25 in a more slinky fabric in Modal (a type of rayon) and 8% elastane.

Jigsaw lace edge vest

Or for a gentler price, Marks and Spencer lace top vest, is also pretty, £12.50 (just remove the little bow which I think cheapens it)

Marks and Spencer lace top vest

Top Tip – as they are essential items and bound to be worn often, take care with washing and avoid using softeners (actually any garments with stretchy elastane fibres), like Lycra (which is just a brand name for elastane). They will eventually break down the fibres and the top will lose its fit. And always dry naturally away from heaters.

Kirstie x