Less-than-boring basic: The deconstructed waistcoat

It may look fairly dull and innocuous at first glance, but the deconstructed waistcoat from River Island (£29.99) is exactly the kind of item that you buy as a basic and end up wearing to death. Less of a waistcoat and more of a sleeveless cardigan, it appeals because I'm a sucker for layering pieces that don't add too much bulk. The longer length is also good for masking lumps and bump, but the ruching on the waist of this adds a bit of detail for slimmer frames too. I'd layer it over dresses and vests in the warmer weather (maybe even over a bikini on holiday?) and wear it over long-sleeved tops and jeans in Winter. All it then needs is a big statement necklace, and you're done.