Diane Keaton has been a fashion icon for at least two (maybe three) generations of women. Her confident and composed appearance is best summarized as a lifestyle of understated chic. It’s a style that a large number of fashion-conscience women try to achieve.

Keaton was the face of the Chico’s 2011 Holiday campaign, which works well with her boyish style that balances a casual look with a polished delivery. For example, her use of white shirts is as versatile today as it was 30 or even 40 years ago. However, the pairings are different in each decade, straight skirts, tweed pants, vests, and more recently jeans or the occasional formal skirt.

Perhaps what’s important is not Diane Keaton’s style, but the lesson it teaches us about establishing your own “chic” look. Timeless fashion is a good investment and chic and timeless are nearly synonymous. Here are a few must-have items that are not fashion fads, which come and go. A woman’s closet is not truly complete without these twelve wardrobe staples.

Chic Black Dress
Infinitely versatile, the chic black dress is a wardrobe must-have. Wear it to work, parties, on dates or even in casual situations. This dress is so important you might want two!

Strands of Pearls
No other accessory is as important as a single or double strand of pearls. The choker style is a classic piece of jewelry and can be worn both day and night and will not go out of style.

Pencil Skirt
This feminine skirt has a length and cut flattering to most women. Wear it with a blouse for     a perfect office outfit. Add pearls for a sophisticated evening look. Consider having one in black, one in gray,and/or one in khaki.

Collared Button Down Blouse
A  crisp freshly pressed  button down front with a collar sends a clear message of chic. White is the classic approach, but pastels are also classy and work well with professional trousers or a skirt.

High-Heels
Professional and sexy, high-heels are a no-brain-er for every woman. Pumps add inches and help you achieve the long-leg appearance we all want: Get the most mileage from your heels by ignoring the latest trends – buy quality and comfort. Choose colors with staying power: black, red, and beige or skin tone are all great.

Ballet Flats
Traditional styling has helped flats find a home in women’s closets around the world. Ballet flats are easily coordinated with jeans and tee shirts. They are available in an array of colors and patterns. Start with a neutral color like black or a muted blue and build a collection of cute comfortable footwear.

Perfectly Fitted Jeans
How can you live without a great pair (or two) of jeans? Not just any pair, we’re talking about tailored jeans perfectly matched to your favorite high-heels or ballet flats.

Tailored Blazer
The tailored blazer is an easy way to take your outfit to the next level. It brings a new look to whatever you’re wearing, a dress, skirt, or jeans and is great for travel or office wear.

Black Trousers
Do you ever think you have nothing to wear? You can count on a pair of black trousers to provide a solution. The wide-leg style is figure-flattering and just what a gal needs to boost her self-esteem.

Something Cashmere
Build luxury into your wardrobe with cashmere. A pullover sweater or buttoned or zippered cardigan is a versatile classic and great for all-seasons. Excellent for the layered look this fabric says luxury and comfort like no other.

Classic Trench Coat
Single or double-breasted, the classic trench coat is as chic as it gets for outerwear. Whether it’s Diane Keaton or Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s this is a look that every gal can handle.

Sunglasses – The Final Touch of Class
Practical yes, but don’t stop there buy a stylish pair of sunglasses that will do more than protect your eyes – go for the mysterious movie-star look. Buy lenses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B rays to protect your eyes from harmful radiation. Check out a pair of over-sized or unisex aviator sunglasses to give you a modern retro feel.

So, what’s on your shopping list now?