Building the "Perfect" Wardrobe

I've been editing my makeup bag for the past few months and feel pretty good now about the amount of makeup I own-- I'm wearing most things quite regularly, which I prefer. The cost per wear of a Chanel lipstick, for example, is negligible if you actually use it up (something I have done in the past). I can actually also see a good sized dent in my NARS Penny Lane blush, something I never thought would happen-- although I've had the blush for somewhere between six and eight months.

I'd like to edit my wardrobe in the same way-- it would be great to have only items that I loved and were worn consistently. So far, I've got a couple of pieces that truly get both a lot of love and a lot of rotation.

One is a pair of J Crew cords, in red. I actually bought these in-store (for the discount, which tends to be better come sale time). The style pictured is accurate. The awesome thing about these cords is the color (a perfect medium true red, goes with everything and can serve as a neutral even though it's also a bright pop of color). The other great thing about these pants is the texture-- the fine wale of the corduroy means that the pants are appropriate nearly year round (I'm in a cold climate) and as versatile as blue jeans.

My other favorite purchase is a Land's End cashmere cardigan in black, bought from their outlet store-- there's nothing particularly fancy about the sweater-- the buttons are actually quite plain, but the heft of the sweater is decent and it's kept me warm during some fairly cold days at work. It's a plus that it is black, although I suppose that any other shade might be just as versatile if it worked in your own wardrobe.

Now shoes? I'm not there yet. I'd love to try Lanvin flats (Sue London or Bloch is probably more realistically in my price range). I'm not a heels wearer, so something with only a tiny heel is really more appropriate for me and my lifestyle. Suggestions? The perfect black flat (no details, no trim, just very high quality leather) would be an excellent addition to my spring/summer wardrobe.