5 essentials for a recession-ready wardrobe

3. A trench coat Why it's essential "It's the perfect layering piece throughout spring and fall -- over a tank, suit jacket or blouse," says Nadler. What to look for: Single or double breasted, knee length, with a belt. It should be roomy enough to wear over a suit jacket but you still want that hourglass shape when you tie the belt. Ways to wear and pair a trench coat - Over a suit by day, or a black dress by night. - Topping a turtleneck or colourful scarf, with the collar flipped up. - With the collar of a PWB over top of the coat collar. - Swap the coat's belt for a thick one from your closet. - With blue jeans and a PWB. - With your black suit, or just the black pants combined with a turtleneck and a pop of drama from a chunky necklace. STYLE TIP: To get what Nadler calls "a chic Audrey Hepburn look," tie the belt in a knot on one side (don't use the buckle holes). Image courtesy of: Better Styled

4. A black dress
Black dresses: Jones New York, $99 and $129; The Gap, $58. Nadler also spotted great styles at Zara ($39.95) and Jacob ($69.99)

Why it's essential
From day to evening, you can mix a black dress with blouses, jackets and cardigans you already have in your closet; and it's a cinch to reinvent with accessories.What to look for: "The shift style fits best," says Nadler. "Choose a classic cut -- to the knee or slightly below -- in a fabric that's soft to the touch but has stretch. Think fitted, not tight; you want to be able to layer underneath it."

Ways to wear and pair a black dress
- With pearls and topped with your trench for evenings out.
- With a PWB layered underneath it -- jumper style -- for work.
- With a belt over top and knee-high boots.
- Under a neutral or bright-coloured, textured jacket.
- Topped by a print or solid-colour cardigan with three-quarter-length sleeves.

FOOTWEAR TIP: For the perfect black shoe for the dress and other outfits, Nadler suggests a mid-height stiletto. "The best bet is a slightly pointed toe -- it will never go out of style."

Click here for the final necessary piece for your basic recession wardrobe...

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