Five timeless fashion essentials for every woman
Fashion trends come and go, but there are five essential pieces that every woman should own -- timeless pieces that just never go out of style that should be part of every wardrobe.
On "The Early Show" Tuesday, designer Carmen Marc Valvo spotlighted five such pieces and, best of all, he brought along affordable versions of each!
Carmen is the author of "Dressed to Perfection: The Art of Dressing Your Red Carpet Moments." Proceeds from the book, which was released in February, are going to colon cancer research, including the National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance (NCCRA), which Katie Couric co-founded. He's also teamed with the Colon Cancer Alliance and the makers of Dulcolax to raise awareness of the importance of colon cancer screening. Carmen credits a screening with saving his life in 2003 when he was diagnosed.
Essential Piece # 1 - Classic Button-Down Shirt
Carmen Marc Valvo look:
This look is timeless because a white shirt is the most versatile article of clothing in any woman's wardrobe. A white shirt is always easy to find--in a pinch, try the men's or boys department! This look is Menswear inspiration taken to a whole new level with a little cleavage and waist accented with a sexy black skirt with a little flare. Every woman should own this type of look because it is effortless to put together and the effect is stunning. CMV button down retails for $395.
Budget Solution:
Model - Angellika
Here we have found a great white shirt and paired with a super comfortable black stretch sequin skirt for a similar effect. The obi sash is actually a satin trimmed chiffon scarf we found at Macy's and tied in the back in a pretty square knot. Always appropriate beige pumps complete the look.
Shopping Details:
- JC Penney white shirt $40, available at jcpenney.com -- this is actually a men's white shirt
- Macy's sheer ivory scarf tied as an obi -- 24.99, available at Macys.com
- Alex Evening black sequin skirt -- $90, available at alight.com
- Call it Spring beige open-toe pump -- $49.99, available at JCPenney.com
Essential Piece # 2 - Lace
Carmen Marc Valvo look:
This look is timeless, because lace is the essence of being a woman. It is what women wear closest to their skin--on a daily basis! Using lace as the focal point of a look emphasizes timeless femininity. The nude lining adds a sexy sophistication to the look as well as showcasing the workmanship of the lace. And the corset detailing give a classic feminine curves. Every woman should own this type of look for the days when they want to pull out all the sexy stops! CMV's lace top retails for $275.
Budget Solution:
Model - Jen
Here we have found a similar look. This lacy illusion top has sex appeal as well as comfort -- it is made in a stretch fabric! Add a kicky peplum skirt and you are good to go.
Shopping Details:
- Cap sleeve lace butier top www.venus.com $29
- Fishtail pencil skirt www.venus.com $39
- Fioni Kutie Knot pump $26.99 available at payless.com
- Mixit Earrings-$20 -- available at JCPenney.com
Essential Piece #3 - Swimsuit Cover
Carmen Marc Valvo look:
This cover up is timeless because of the effortless glamour it evokes. The ribbon waist and high neckline allow you to be polished--even at the pool! Every woman should own this type of look because it makes it easy to instantly be glamorous! Just slip on the cover up and you can be ready for anything. CMV's swimsuit cover retails for $243.
Budget Solution:
Model: Suzanne
Here we have found a great budget solution. This caftan style cover-up is silk chiffon and has a great beaded detail at the bust. This is always a classic style and lends a Hollwood glamour to sandiest beaches. Pair it with a strappy heel for extra long legs!
Shopping Details:
- Silk Chiffon Embellished Tunic www.venus.com $69
- Arizona solid black 1 pc swimsuit -- $34.99 available at JCPenney.com
- Keller Strappy Sandal $26.99 -- available at Payless.com
Essential Piece # 4 - Classic Cardigan
Carmen Marc Valvo look:
This look is timeless because of its simplicity. A skirt that skims the body, a pretty bow that nips in the waist, and a chic jacket is the essence of femininity. Every woman should own this type of look because it epitomizes what it means to be feminine. CMV's cardigan retails for $355.
Budget Solution:
Model - Debbie
Here we have Debie in a classic ivory strapless dress with a modified bubble skirt-this is a more modern version of the 1950"s fit and flair style and is flattering to most figures because it makes the waist appear smaller. A short and sweet cardigan is a less expensive but still polished replacement for the jacket and the ribbon is a simple scrap we had laying around the office! Again, a nude shoe does everything it is supposed to do!
Shopping details:
- Macy's Dress - $158
- Call it Spring Pumps - $50
- Turquoise Cardigan $68 available at AnnTaylor.com
Essential Piece # 5 - Little Black Dress
Carmen Marc Valvo look:
This "little black dress look" is timeless because it is appropriate for any occasion. Versatility is a key to being timeless. This dress would look great with anything from a vintage fur stole to a beat up jean jacket. The classic Audrey Hepburn silhouette is updated with a sheer neckline so it can be sexy without being over the top. The perfect knee length works with any shoe or boot-and everyone loves black for its slimming effect. Every woman should have a "go to" little black dress in her closet. Take the time to find the perfect classic like this and it will save you hours in the future deciding what to wear. CMV's LBD retails for $1,210!
Budget Solution:
Model - Janice
Here we have found a similar look, but with an added special detail of a pretty peplum. Beige pumps elongate the leg and also remind us that spring is here. Electric blue accessories are an exclamation point to a great outfit. We encourage people to wear blue as it symbolizes colon cancer - similar to breast cancer and pink.
Shopping details:
- J. Taylor Dress - $75
- Call it Spring Pumps - $50
- Gunne Sax Clutch - $37
- Mixit Ring Blue flower cocktail ring -- 11.99 available at JCPenney