Few things take your wardrobe further than a handful of great basics—just ask any influencer. In fact, we consider these essential pieces to be so important that we’re comfortable calling them the building blocks to a truly robust wardrobe. These are the items that don't change much from season to season. Think your white T-shirts, skinny jeans, black booties, and such. They are great transitional items that will take you from work to play and through almost every occasion. But while it’s easy to identify the basic items you’re drawn to year after year, it can be harder to narrow down exactly what “affordable” means, as it varies from person to person. To make things cut-and-dried, we’ve narrowed down spring’s coolest basics in the $15 to $300 range. Scroll for easy and transparent shopping.
The Button-Down Blouse
Topshop
Button Down Blouse
Smart and casual, this top is ideal for work or drinks.Available in sizes 0 to 14.
Everlane
Japanese Oxford Square Shirt in Blue
A best seller with an exaggerated cuff.Available in sizes 00 to 14.
Equipment
Signature Blouse
A silk variation of the classic white button-down.Available in sizes XS to L.
Madewell
Gingham Play Button Down Shirt
A closet staple in the season's must-have print.Available in sizes XXS to L.
Skinny Jeans
Rebecca Taylor
Clemence Skinny Jeans
Essential skinnies with a comfortable high-waisted cut.Available in sizes 24 to 31.
Levi's
501 Skinny
The classic 501s in a skinny-jean silhouette. Available in sizes 24 to 31.
AG
The Legging Ankle Skinny Jeans
Try crisp white denim for the new season ahead.Available in sizes 24 to 31.
Marina Rinaldi
Frayed Step-Hem Skinny Jeans
A classic five-pocket style with an easygoing frayed hem. Available in sizes 4W to 6W.
The Classic White T-shirt
Hanes x Karla
The Crew Tee
Arguably the best white T-shirt this year.Available in sizes S to L.
Yeah Right NYC
Embroidered Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt
Speak your mind in this cute embroidered T-shirt.Available in sizes XS to L.
Everlane
The Japanese GoWeave Back-Zip Tee
This back-zip top looks extra elevated
whether you wear it to the office or for date night.Available in sizes 00 to 12.
Madewell
Whisper Slub Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt
A whisper-thin T-shirt that's perfect for everyday layering.Available in sizes XS to XL.
Black Booties
Topshop
Malone Block Heel Bootie
These chunky, angular heels are statement-making while maintaining their status as a closet essential. Available in sizes 5.5 to 11.5.
Steven
Lieve Block Heel Ankle Booties
A dramatic yet everyday take on pointed-toe booties.Available in sizes 6 to 10.
Jeffrey Campbell
Kovacs Block Heel Booties
Wood heels lend a softer look to the classic black leather boots.Available in sizes 8.5 to 9.5.
Express
Pointed Toe Heeled Booties
These booties will take you from the office to drinks in no time. Available in sizes 7 to 10.
Mix, match, and layer these pieces season after season.