Basics are essential items to any wardrobe, mostly because they're so versatile. They can be paired with other items (including statement pieces and other basics) no matter your personal style. If you find yourself scrambling to put outfits together even though you own a wardrobe full of clothes, it may be time to invest in some reliable basics such as tank tops, shirts, and dress pants. Owning some of these staples is also essential if you are looking to build a capsule wardrobe, a tightly edited selection of clothing that will last and can be worn for any occasion.
Just because they are called basics doesn’t mean these items have to be boring. A simple tank top can be designed in a variety of cuts, styles, and colorways. I selected essential pieces that will elevate any outfit, from black body-con dresses to blazers and slip skirts. And as it just so happens, there are a lot of options to choose from under the $100 price mark. Scroll down to find my top picks.
Body-Con Dresses
Highlight your gorgeous figure with this classic formfitting dress.
Button-Down Shirts
A button-down will never go out of style.
Trousers
We love the contrast of sleek trousers with a more casual shirt.
Miniskirts
Have you heard? Minis are back in a major way.
Knit Dresses
When the temps drop, a knit dress is an easy choice.
Blazers
Blazers go way beyond the office and can add polish to everything from a date-night ensemble to an errands look.
Satin Skirts
The silky texture is a great way to add sophistication to your outfit.
Tank Tops
In every color, please!
Cardigans
Cardigans are the sweater of choice right now.
Next, I May Be a Fashion Editor, But Comfort Comes First—10 Brands That Fit the Bill
-
FYI: These Are the Anti-Sandal Shoes NYC Girls Are Wearing With Miniskirts When They Go OutSummer shoes they are not.
-
I Proved It—Everyone Thinks These 39 Old Navy, Gap, and Zara Items Are DesignerRun and swipe.
-
Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This SummerObsessed.
-
I'm a Corporate Girlie Now—32 J.Crew Pieces That Have Me Excited for My Morning CommuteFor a fashionable 9-to-5.
-
I Shop for a Living—30 Pieces From Zara, H&M, and Revolve That Caught My Eye for SummerPolka dot dresses, tank tops, capris, and more.
-
8 Pieces That Are the Secret Sauce to an Incredibly Chic Summer Outfit RotationGetting ready just got so much easier.
-
It's Officially a Butter-Yellow Summer—27 of the Chicest Finds at Zara,Replica Store, and J.CrewFashion people love this color trend.
-
The Chicest Tops of Summer Are Hiding at Zara, and I'm Already Planning All My Outfits Around ThemFrom linen vests to halter silhouettes.
