You’ve heard it before. Every girl needs a little black dress, dark denim dressy jeans, a well-fitting blazer, blah, blah, blah. I don’t want to waste your time telling you what you already know, so let’s talk about five items that always seem to be missing from those lists. They may seem too simple to be necessities or not just your cup of tea, but these pieces can help bridge many wardrobe gaps and can be styled in an infinite number of ways.

1. Sheer Maxi Skirt. A one of the biggest trends of 2011, I’m a large proponent of giving your sheer maxi skirt a permanent place in your closet and in your heart. Why: The long length and sheer material can lend itself to formal events, but if styled correctly can also be completely casual. Opt for one with no attached lining because it can look like a totally different skirt depending on what you layer under it – a full length skirt for a more put together look, a mini for a more casual look, or even a pair of denim shorts (cue the latest Free People catalog) for a music festival look. You can even try a patterned skirt. Alternatively: If you don’t like the floor length look, a sheer midi can do the trick too.2. Light Military Jacket. Believe it or not, nothing gets more play in my closet than my military jacket. Why: It’s that moment when you’re about to head out the door for a coffee date with some girlfriend and you realized you’re too dressed up. You were going for ladylike but ended up first lady (love you, Mrs. O. but you know what I mean).  Throw this piece on to tone down the look in a most fashion-forward manner. Layer it under a blazer for just a peek, or you can even button it up, roll up the sleeves, and belt it to pretend it’s a shirt. Alternatively: There’s no alternative for this sweet piece.

3. Plaid shirt. An easy find, a plaid shirt is an easy way to update your look and it transcends all seasons and trends. Why: This simple, never-going-away pattern is great for pattern mixing when paired with a floral skirt but is equally great with a a tweed coat.  The collar and buttons lend themselves to layering under and over other items. In neutral colors, plaid will go a long way in your wardrobe, but a fun red or orange plaid packs some punch. Alternatively: If plaid is too lumberjack-meets-Kurt-Cobain for you, a classic gingham can work to the same effect.

4. Blue Button Up: You don’t already own this? Why: How many tops can you wear for work and play? This staple goes either way. You can giggle in glee when you realize you’re wearing the same shirt you wore to an interview at a pumpkin patch. Alternatively: A gray button up has almost the same effect, though I think no color lends itself 50/50 like a nice light blue.5. Statement necklace. Whether a choker or a long strand pendant (ideally one of each), a statement necklace of some sort is a must-have for every lady. Why: To dress up the aforementioned little black dress, dark denim jeans, the button up, and even the military jacket and plaid shirt. A good statement necklace can be the deciding factor of what you want your outfit to say. It can be worn more often than you think, so be sure to get one that you are comfortable wearing forever, all the time. Call it your signature. Alternatively: Not a necklace person? The right chandelier earrings can do this too!