Good Brands for Good Basics?

OK, here's the deal: I just went through my closet today and tried on
just about everything in it. There was a TON of stuff that fit me well,
but for some reason they're now too short at the waist (they sit right
above where it would be considered "at the hip", which is frustrating).
I went to Macys today, was there nearly three hours and came out with
only a pair of heels (Charles by Charles David, high–quality, they go
with just about all of my dresses and skirts) and a black kimono–style
top that I think might be just a hair too short at the waist. I'm going
to go shopping this week later and do a serious overhaul of my
wardrobe. I am looking for specific styles and need to know which
companies/brands make good ones, where I can buy them, prices (I'm not
paying $100 for a skirt, but $50 is reasonable). Here's what I'm
looking for:
Black, knee–length skirts in pencil, A–line and/or bias–cut styles that
are good for daytime. Should be in a fabric that can go with ribbed
cotton tank tops or nicer tops (button–down, etc.), so not a jersey I
suppose.
Pants that are body–conscious but not tight, so if I'm retaining water
or put on a little extra during the winter I can still be comfortable
and they'll still be flattering. They can be denim, black or khaki and
should also be able to go with either tanks/tees or nicer stuff.
I'm a student so none of what I am planning needs to be
dressy/professional, but it might be good to have nicer clothes that I
can wear to class or for internship positions, and that's what I'm
hoping for. I want to project an image of casual youthfulness but
that's classy and polished, with room to add incorporate bright and
unique accessories. For example, one of my favorite outfits is a
brightly striped asymmetrical skirt with a red crewneck tee, my brown
leather Coach bag and black suede "Gentleman Caller" Seychelles heels
(that's the name of the shoe, kind of '30s–'40s style sexy/cute). It's
very simple, but also fun, young and polished, appropriate for most of
my daily excursions. That's what I'm looking for.

Oops – sorry for some of the confusion in my last post at certain
parts. I didn't copy edit before posting.

On 2/26/06 8:49 PM, in article
1141008563.575861.39...@j33g2000cwa.googlegroups.com, "Mouse"
<labmous...@hotmail.com> wrote:
IMO, as long as you're covered (e.g. Long torso tank top tucked into low
waist pants), you can wear the low waisted items to work.
For either of these items, I'd suggest Ann Taylor sales or Ann Taylor Loft.
Possibly INC at Macy's.
From your description, it sounds like you want an office look out of Lucky
mag. Now while I think that those looks are cute, they'd be out of place at
my office (i.e. engineering), and I wouldn't suggest such a wardrobe if you
plan on interning in a what could be considered a conservative field (e.g.
Banking industry).
JMO,
ami

Mossimo makes good affordable basics at Target

Some of the Body by Victoria's Secret items are nice. I have the
Christie fit pant in black seasonless stretch and they are awesome.
Great fit, great shape, absolutely no fading.
Wendy