50 Things Every Girl Should Own

There's no better way to start off a new year than by putting your best foot forward. If your New Year's resolution is to spend 2009 looking a little more fabulous, than be sure to check out the Times Online article "50 Things Every Girl Should Own." It serves as an excellent beginner's guide to style, but even the most savvy stylista will also benefit from this compilation of fashion must-haves. As opposed to focusing on seasonal trends, the list focues on timeless items that you can incorporate into your wardrobe for years to come. Excerpts from the list, as well as where to find items will be posted over the coming weeks.

Here's to a happy, healthy and stylish 2009!

1 GOLD HOOP EARRINGS For days when you wanna look J.Lo glam. These shouldn’t be so big as to look like you haven’t got over the gypsy trend, nor so small as to make you look like a three-year-old on a council estate.

2 A BERET For bad-hair days. It will take you straight to Kim Basinger in Batman. Just don’t obsess about the angle: they should be worn with nonchalance.

Cable Stitch Beret at urbanoutfitters.com

3 A VINTAGE OSSIE CLARK DRESS Separates the women from the girls. Fabulously flattering at any age, from 18 to 80.

4 EXPENSIVE BLACK LACE LINGERIE At least one set. For obvious reasons.

La Perla lingerie at net-a-porter.com (left)

5 A PAIR OF THERMAL SHORTS For when you want to wear a skirt without tights, but it’s a bit parky outside.

6 SILK STOCKINGS A rite of passage for every woman — and, subsequently, for her man. In slightly unusual shades — such as petrol or burgundy — they make an outfit. And in this country they can be worn for three-quarters of the year.

7 A DECENT TRENCH COAT Some people are scared of trenches because they look fussy — they’re not. Everyone from Burberry to M&S does them, so there’s no excuse.

A.P.C Trench Coat at largarconne.com (left)

8 A LEATHER JACKET It should be cropped and fitted nicely around your waist. Takes you from a gig to the supermarket via your mum’s and a first date. Enough said.

Y's by Yohji Yamamoto Cropped Jacket at eluxury.com

9 A GOOD WALLET Because if a bag matters, so does your purse — and people see it all the time. Jimmy Choo’s, we feel, are particularly well thought-out.

10 A PAIR OF FALSIES (eyelashes, that is). Instant divadom.

Shu Uemura False Eyelashes at sephora.com

View the Times Online article here