10 items every woman should have in her wardrobe

Trench coat
The trench coat is a wardrobe staple for stylish women – fans include Kate Moss, Katie Holmes and Alexa Chung. Why? Because it’s the ideal piece of outerwear for tricky between-seasons weather. The beauty of a coat like this is that there are various cuts and styles, so it’s possible to find the perfect one for every figure.

Burberry's creative director Christopher Bailey always includes at least one version of the classic trench in every collection and perks it up with a new look. It's the coat that will never die.

Blazer
Blazers work well as a great day-to-night item. They are a clever layering piece that you can dress up or down. Jessica Alba balanced smart/casual when she teamed her boyfriend-style blazer with a flirty chiffon dress for a lunch date.

Choosing a neutral colour like navy or black is ideal for everyday wear but don’t be afraid to try block colours and prints for fun.

Looking for a blazer? Find what you are searching for with Yahoo! Shopping

Waist-cinching belt
Whether it is chunky, skinny or studded, a belt is not just for keeping your trousers up.

The hourglass remains the most desired body shape and the best way to create or enhance your curves is with a waist belt.

Use a plain belt to break up bold prints, or in reverse an unusual style can breathe life into a plain outfit.

See Catherine Zeta Jones, who jazzed up a white shirt and black pencil skirt combo with a quirky belt.

A good bra
Wearing the right underwear is the foundation to a well-styled outfit. When your bra is giving you the right type of support it will make you feel more comfortable and more confident in all your clothes.

Statistics show 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra, so get measured (regularly) and enjoy stocking up on some flattering lingerie.

Oversized watch
It may break the rules but a boyfriend-style watch looks great on a woman’s wrist and it will work season after season.

Pair your oversized watch with painted nails, thin bracelets and cocktail rings to soften the look.

Looking for watches? Find what you are looking for with Yahoo! Shopping

Leather jacket
A leather jacket is a good investment piece. They have come all the way from being draped around the cool shoulders of James Dean in the 1950s to being a re-occurring part of street style today.

Whether you opt for a cropped or bomber style, wearing leather outerwear is the perfect way to channel an edgy look.

Statement scarf
This accessory is no longer worn just to keep you warm. From playful paisley prints to signature McQueen skulls, scarves can liven up or transform your look.

Scarves have grown so much in sartorial status that Liberty department store has devoted an entire room to them.

See also: Our essential high street shopping guide

Floral dress
Florals are associated with spring and summer but a cute floral tea dress can be worn all year round.

Team the dress with platform wedges if you’re out an about in the warmer months, but don’t pack your dresses away in the autumn because you can pair a fun, floaty dress with the muted colours, chunky knits and heavy accessories of winter too.

Stiletto heels
They’re elegant, smart and make you feel good. Finding high heels that are comfortable is important though. The elegant look you are going for is quickly ruined if your shoes are causing you to hobble around in pain.

Follow the Duchess of Cambridge’s example and try nude heels – they elongate the line of your leg, leaving no excuse but to show off your pins.

Searching for the perfect shoe? Find what you are looking for with Yahoo! Shopping

White canvas pumps
This is the ultimate comfortable shoe that every woman should own (and have more than one pair of).

Follow Sarah Jessica Parker’s lead and have some canvas pumps to slip into on your dress-down days. You’ll still look chic, and more importantly your feet won’t ache after your shopping spree.

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