LAST year’s financial slump taught us that you can survive with a lot less than youthink.

To be sensitive to the economy last year, many designers shrank their collections.
In throwing out excess, it forced their creative hand. Whatever was put out became more beautiful.

Suddenly, there was less of a throwaway trendiness. In its place was an emphasis on clothes that would find longevity in your wardrobe.

While the economy is returning to a healthier state, that lesson has stuck.

Gone are the days when I was inclined to splurge on an outfit I know will see poor returns. Trendy is faddish, easily forgotten after one season.

A good wardrobe is like a good friend – the appeal lasts for a long time and it’s always supportive.

I always tell women to invest in classics and basics.

Like an LBD (little black dress) or a smart pencil skirt in black or charcoal grey and the quintessential white shirt. Those will be with you forever (unless you expand or shrink).

To those essentials, you want to add on accessories that will dress up your outfit, and transform it. Here’s a quick checklist for the season:

SUNGLASSES:

No woman should be without them. Besides shielding your peeps and preventing you from squinting (goodbye Botox bill), the right ones can lend you an air of mystery, maybe even a celebrity aura.

Mine double up as a hairband to keep my long bangs out of my face.

I swear by big, bold frames. They’ve got more character. Square, angular frames are all the rage this season and are a perfect counter for our rounder Asian faces.

SHOES:

I’m a firm believer that a woman can never have too many pairs of shoes. It’s one of my greater weaknesses, but consider this. It gives added height and confidence, perks up the bum and tightens the calves instantly.

This season’s lower heel looks very lady-like. But I’d also pick up a classic pump in a bold colour, and reward myself with a sexy platform like Fendi’s perspex version with its tulle ankle ties – tres haute.

HANDBAG:

Bags and shoes are great investments because they stick with you through thick or thin.

This Spring’s craft obsession means bags with interesting detail and trims. Get a fringe bag or one with a swirly floral bloom. It’s all about impact.

STATEMENT JEWELLERY:

Diamonds are a girl’s BFF, but that doesn’t mean she can’t hang with other impressive accessories.

Delicate trinkets may be pretty, but they can also be insipid or get lost in your whole ensemble.

If you’re going to wear jewellery, then make a statement.

This season, I especially like Bottega Veneta’s oxidised silver pieces. The filagree and natural stones add to the chunky boldness and organic look. You don’t always need the bling to turn heads.