Step right up--wardrobe essentials at Old Navy at ridiculously low prices

I've gone into some detail in an earlier post about the importance of having a foundation of essential garments in your wardrobe, all of which can be the basis for an almost infinite number of outfits no matter the time of year.

I was, of course, riffing on Tim Gunn's excellent "10 Essentials" list, and it's a guide all of us should be familiar with--it's also available in book form, as Tim Gunn: A Guide to Quality, Taste and Style (Tim Gunn's Guide to Style).

So, I try to keep my fashion radar up for good deals on the wardrobe essentials, and pass them along to you as I find them. Which brings us (if a little long-windedly) to tonight's topic, the excellent classic trench at Old Navy.

It's a steal at $49.50, and is traditionally tailored, doubled-breasted, and with a tie belt and faux leather-covered buttons. It's a timeless style, but you'll have a hard time finding it for a better price.

If you sign up for Old Navy's email newsletter, they'll send you a $10 off $50 purchase--you know I always dig around for ways to sweeten already great bargains, so take advantage of that.

I also noticed their classic white shirt--another wardrobe essential--is currently on sale for $15. It's crisp cotton with just a touch of stretch, and comes in several colors. At that price, you could pick up a white shirt (or two), and perhaps one in French blue.

These are items that will never go out of style, and easily pair with any number of other separates (dress slacks, a pencil skirt--even jeans), and everyone should have these in their closet. At these prices, it's much less painful on the pocketbook to add them if you don't already have them.