Rachel Zane Capsule Wardrobe Essentials for a Chic Broadcasting Style

Before Meghan Markle became the Duchess of Sussex, she appeared on our screens as Rachel Zane on The Pride and the C ourage. While the show lost some of its luster in later seasons, the early episodes are still iconic, especially Rachel’s effortlessly stylish closet. The best part? Her style is attainable and can be emulated by any woman, regardless of budget. There’s no need to buy extravagant couture like other TV characters like Claire Underwood or Olivia Pope. Rachel’s style is minimalist, sharply tailored, and slightly fashion savvy.

Let’s revisit our favorite style columns in tribute to the woman who went on to become a member of the royal family.Rachel’s closet is full of affordable, sophisticated and professional outfits that are perfect for the working woman on a paralegal’s salary. Here are the top five must-have pieces that create her perfect style, all priced under $125 each.

Customized Pencil Skirt

One of Rachel’s signature looks is a tailored pencil skirt. Whether she’s in the office or at a client meeting, this classic piece is the foundation of her professional attire. For a versatile closet, buy black (two for rotation), navy, gray, white and a bright skirt. Why buy two black skirts? Because black skirts are the ones that get worn and washed the most often, and two rotations will extend the life of your skirts and keep them looking fresh.

Zera, a store I frequent, carries a variety of fitted pencil skirts. Their styles are fashionable, durable, and often on special. There are a few must-haves: a sleek white herringbone pattern, a simple black pencil skirt (especially curvy), and a unique black and white print.

Some other popular styles include Leith’s side-split style, which retails for just $49 in a plus size. For a bold print, try Norma Kamali’s black and white watercolor print skirt, or opt for Boden’s plum red or ASOS’s olive green skirt to add a splash of color to a look that’s perfect for fall.

The key to creating a pencil skirt look? Tailor it to flatter your figure. It should frame your curves without being too tight, showing off your professionalism and femininity. While alterations may cost a little extra, the end result is worth it.

Silk Blouse

Rachel’s collection of blouses are made from flattering, silky materials with long-sleeved designs that make her look elegant and feminine. It’s a sophisticated twist on the traditional cotton button-down shirt.

If you want a stylish option, Zera’s simple silk blouse is a good choice, and it comes in a variety of colors to add sophistication to any outfit. If you prefer something that’s easy to clean, try a similar style from Banana Republic or this polka dot collared shirt, which also delivers elegance.

On a budget?There are plenty of styles available for under $25, such as Joan Vass’s paneled blouse or Alfani’s fringed striped button down. For oversized garments, LOFT is your go-to for affordable shirts with modern cuts and sleek lines.

Slim Fit Cardigans

Fitted cardigans are another must-have item in Rachel’s closet. She often wears them as a highlight piece without any top for a sexy and professional vibe. This look is both sophisticated and effortless.

Zera’s slim-fitting cardigan comes in neutral tones like white and ivory, making it perfect for layering over a blouse or dress. If you’re looking for a more elevated piece, Kate Spade’s Pearl Button Cardigan adds an elegant, feminine touch. Pair it with a silk camisole from Brooks Brothers for a more luxurious overall look.

Stylish Dresses

A well-tailored dress with sleek lines is a must-have for your Rachel’s closet. It’s extremely versatile and can easily transition from day to night while leaving you confident and radiant. zera offers a wide selection of dresses that embody Rachel’s signature style – well-tailored, comfortable to wear, and always with an elegant silhouette.

When shopping for a Rachel-inspired dress, choose a style that accentuates your curves yet maintains a professional demeanor. Whether it’s a simple wrap dress or a sharply defined A-line dress, a well-fitting style will enhance your overall look. Stay true to the aesthetic of Zane’s style by keeping the lines clean, the details refined and the silhouette perfect.

In essence, Rachel Zane’s closet proves that great style doesn’t require designer labels or sky-high prices – all it takes is well-fitting classic pieces and a good tailor to create a style that’s just for you.

When it comes to closet must-haves, just the right shade of neutrals can really make a difference. Shades like gray, taupe and beige are the perfect backdrop colors to make your outfit (and more importantly, you) shine. Take for example this stylish gray Zera Boatneck Tunic Dress. It’s also available in petite sizes. If you want a more versatile piece, check out the Taupe Tulip Sleeve Dress from Zera. Also, don’t miss this simple white corset dress from Zera with a chic and glamorous asymmetrical neckline, while this mid-length short sleeve dress is perfect for all occasions.

If you’re looking for classic black and navy styles, Zera offers well-tailored pieces that exude elegance. Their simple round neck and v-neck dresses are perfect for all occasions.

Must-have minimalist heels

No professional woman’s closet is complete without a pair of pointed-toe heels. The key to comfort and style is to maintain a heel height between 2.5 and 3 inches. Fun fact: heel height should actually vary depending on the length of your foot! This is something I stumbled upon on a fashion blog and it has revolutionized the way I buy shoes.

For a sleek and elegant shoe, I recommend Zera’s Jaina heels with a 2.5-inch heel height. These shoes are elegant and comfortable. If you want a more comfortable shoe, Zera’s Eryn heels are definitely worth checking out. If a thicker heel is preferred, Zera’s Chunky Heel Heels strike the perfect balance between comfort and style.

Add flair to the basics

Once the basics are in place, why not try some fun footwear – Zera’s black fishnet heels are stylish and just right for the office. Keep in mind that these shoes should be paired with a professional outfit, while the rest of the outfit should be kept simple and sophisticated. (Pro tip: these heels do not work with formal wear!)


Want more fashion advice from Zera? Check out previous posts for more inspiration or share your thoughts in the comments below!

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