18 Wardrobe Essentials

To makeover O's first Make Me a Ten! candidate, creative director Adam Glassman chose pieces with maximum mixability.

By Amanda Robb and Brooke Kosofsky Glassberg

Metallic flats perk up all your basics.

A leather day bag in black or brown can take you through the week.

A jersey wrap dress is easy to wear because the material moves with your body. Accessories step it up or dress it down.

Trouser jeans are more flattering—and fancier—than your standard five-pockets. They would pass muster in many offices.

Knit leggings aren't the staples you remember from the '80s. Think of them as tights—put them with a tunic or oversize shirt or underneath a skirt.

The right undergarments make your clothes fit better and make you look thinner, says Adam.

An arty silk shell pops under a jacket for work or shines on its own for a formal event.

A knit cardigan can function as a shirt, a top layer, or even a jacket, depending on where you live. Bonus: The plum shade matches all neutrals.

A dressy T-shirt has enough panache for work or evening.

A crisp white button-down belongs in every closet. This pristine piece goes with any bottoms.

A flouncy black skirt that hits at the knee feels comfortable; looks pulled-together.

Lauren by Ralph Lauren flat front khakis

Flat-front khakis are a lightweight, year-round staple.

A colorful raincoat—this quilted one is fitted and long enough to cover your lower half—keeps you dry in high style.

Low boots in versatile brown leather look even better the longer you wear them.

Neutral pumps, with a stable stacked heel and a strap for support, are great under trousers or with a dress.

Crewneck sweaters in a range of colors effortlessly transform an outfit.

Workout attire that fits and flatters will inspire you to get moving.

High-performance sneakers with support and breathability are suited for the gym or a lap around the block.

See the results of O's first ever Make Me a Ten! Makeover

Plus, tips and tricks from O's Fall Fashion Handbook

From the September 2009 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine