Fashion expert and host of “Project Runway” Tim Gunn shares his favorite style trends through the ages. Tim believes any classic piece that has staying power is a fashion keeper.

His three wardrobe must-have pieces include:

Image from theblaze.com

The trench coat

It’s something you can wear to the grocery store or to the opera.

A classic blazer

This is an easy way to dress up the ubiquitous T-shirt and jeans combination.

A simple black dress

The little black dress is a must-have for any woman.

On styling, the fashion guru believes everyone should take responsibility for their looks. “Saying, “I’m not a fashion person,” isn’t an excuse to look sloppy,” he says. “Accept responsibility for how you’re dressing. The clothes we wear send a message about how the world perceives us.”

He recommends wearing separates to achieve a thinner look. “Separates will help you appear slimmer; you should choose a lighter color on top and a darker color on bottom, because of the optical illusion effect,” Tim advises. “Consider counterpoint: if you have a sleek fitting bottom, think about having a little volume on top. Also, be sure the clothes fit you.”

Leather jackets are a big fall trend. Tim suggests investing in one that fits your lifestyle. “The black leather jacket is a fashion staple for a woman’s wardrobe, but there are many different styles,” he explains. “There’s a blazer style, a riff on the classic motorcycle jacket, or the classic motorcycle style itself. Choose one that fits in with your lifestyle.”

For men, he recommends wearing shapewear. “People don’t know you’re wearing shapewear; you just look better and your clothes fit you better, even if they’re hard to put on at first,” Tim says. “Do an Internet search for “men’s shapewear,” and you will find an infinite number of resources.”

Learn more about Tim Gunn.