Photos: The Social Shopper: October 15, 2011

It s a hard thing to pin down, but you know it when you see it: that chameleon quality some women have of creating pulled-together, utterly stylish ensembles that work as effortlessly at a lunch at Swifty s as at a Chelsea gallery opening. They don t need to resort to crazy colors, cheeky prints, or ironic accessories; instead, they build ensembles on a foundation of classic essentials. I spotted it on StyleBistro on Miranda Kerr, whose pairing of a timeless white shirt with black leather pants and stiletto heels exudes the kind of polished perfection we all want to emulate. In fact, you probably already have some of the basic elements in your own closet. But if you re missing a piece, here s the definitive shopping list.

As always, keep the list social and submit your favorite additional items via Facebook and Twitter. We just may post your suggestion next week.