The danger of buying only "classics"

As I've said, I tend to buy basics. Many of these are indeed true investment pieces. I've got this absolutely delicious charcoal gray merino wool cardigan with a shawl collar that I've been wearing happily for maybe 4 years. I see no end in sight to its dreamy softness and ease of wear. And it looks classy.

But a wardrobe made up only of classics? Beware. It has no personality. It has no zip. It has no happiness or joy or life.

From what I've read, this is generally how French women shop. But French women are saved because they themselves have something yummy and stylish about them that transcends their very classic, staples-based wardrobe. First, they wear clothing that fits, and is body conscious, and shows that they are indeed Women. Second, they use accessories, hairstyle, make-up to bring their clothing to life.

When I imagine a French woman? I imagine a cashmere sweater, an easy to wear pencil skirt, some comfortable flats that show off her ankles and calves, tousled hair that suggests she's just been for a tumble in real linen sheets, minimal make-up with fabulous lips, a chunky bracelet or a scarf with a story behind it, and beneath it all, real silk underwear and a hint of her signature perfume.

And if she were heading off for a day at the beach? She'd change into some clam diggers and sandals and be ready in just moments...

That sounds good. How do I do that? This blows some of my previous idea out of the water...