Make everyday dressing seamless with these 18 basic pieces
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If you're buying something for your wardrobe this year, make sure it's worth buying basics. Think about it: all Steve Jobs had in his wardrobe when he created world-changing technology were the same basic pieces that he wore repeatedly. While basic styles add simplicity to your wardrobe, they don't have to be boring. Investing in basics makes it much easier to combine your wardrobe. Plus, they are usually comfortable and last a long time if properly maintained.
What exactly makes a good wardrobe basic? Let's start with the definition of the word 'basic', which according to Oxford Languages, constitutes “an essential foundation or starting point; fundamental.” This is exactly what a basic is: a staple in your closet and a starting point when creating outfits. It is not the statement pieces in your closet. They're the simple, reliable parts you can rely on time and time again. It is usually neutral (or a color you like to wear often) and is usually of higher quality, so you can enjoy it for a long time.
Read 18 of our favorite finds below – happy shopping!
1. Daily Essential: A basic white T-shirt is, and I cannot stress this enough, the best wardrobe investment you can make. One of the best places you can go for reliable basic supplies, this from Madewell is our favorite — only $19!
2. American classic: Since sliced bread, nothing is more American than a good pair of jeans. We have chosen Relaxed 90s jeans from Abercrombie with high waist for its classic look and size customization options — just $90!
3. Dark Denim: Black jeans, like this couple from Good American, can transition seamlessly from pairing with a cardigan at the office to a bodysuit for a night out – was $169, now $118!
4. Cabinet Staple: Both men and women should always maintain a classic white button-down style this from Everlane to pair with jeans or a blazer – just $88!
5. One and done: We have already included a white T-shirt, but it is no less important than a black T-shirt, which shoppers love this from Skims — only $48!
6. Tip Top Turtleneck: If a basic fits well, we recommend that you buy it in all your favorite colors. This thin layer turtleneck from Amazon makes that easy as it comes in 20 colors to choose from – was $30, now $20!
7. Classic Cashmere: There isn't a winter you want without this classic cashmere sweater by Quince, made from 100% premium quality Mongolian cashmere – was $128, now $50!
8. All Day, Every Day: One of the most versatile shoes that you can combine with everything Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers anytime – only $63!
9. Go for gold: This Pavoi gold earrings have a simple design that goes with almost anything while still taking your look to the next level – only $14!
10. A Must Have: If you need a good pair of leggings, we recommend you take a look this seamless pair from Spanx — only $68!
11. Business Casual: You definitely need good trousers for the office this from Abercrombie gives you a sense of customization without actually having to go there. Plus, it comes in almost every color you can dream of – just $90!
12. Seasonal product: Featuring a tie front, double breasted design, side pockets and a classic look, you'll definitely want to reach for this beige trench coat on any rainy day – spend $368!
13. Cozy Cardigan: An Amazon bestseller, shoppers say this oversized cardigan with V-neck “goes well with so many things” – was $53, now $40!
14. Minimalist should: With more than 5,000 five-star ratings of Amazon shoppers, this slim-fit top with boat neck will be a go-to to wear as an undershirt or solo – was $15, now $14!
15. Perfect Fit: Whether you need an undershirt to stay warm or something to layer under a cardigan, this is it tank top from Abercrombie works great for both — just $29!
16. Linen Love: An all-encompassing item, this one linen trousers with wide legs works for both beach days and work days – only $80!
17. Best Bodysuit: Known for their sturdy basics, this double layer strapless bodysuit from Skims acts as a base layer and shapewear – only $58!
18. Seamless Stitched: Made with a notched collar, a long silhouette and a button closure black blazer is a simple staple that takes any outfit to the next level — was $75, now $6!