Introducing the New Generation of Fashion-Girl Basics

When you think of basics, a few key items probably come to mind like white T-shirts, skinny jeans, and the like. Well, "trendy basics" have also been cropping up as updates and alternatives to those classics. Here, we're talking about those items that are still versatile in nature but have a slight fashion-forward twist. In fact, we covered a sampling of said pieces recently, and as we've been spotting on IG over the last few months, there's actually a new generation of those fashion-girl basics that are chic, comfortable, and worth noting.
To showcase these next-level basics, we rounded up a bit of visual styling inspiration and product recommendations in case you're shopping around. Keep scrolling for an introduction to these chic yet simple items.
1. Asymmetric Tanks
There's been quite a resurgence of one-shoulder tops as of late. In the basics realm, it's the neutral tanks that are reigning supreme.
2. Short-Sleeve Cardigans
It's no secret that cardigans of all silhouettes have been trending. At the moment, those short-sleeve styles are the front-runner among the fashion crowd.
3. Split-Hem Leggings
Of course standard classic black leggings will always remain a timeless basic, but it's the split-hem styles that continue to increase in popularity.
4. Muscle Tees
It seems like you can't cruise over to a fashion person's IG page and not see a muscle T-shirt or tank. The silhouette is cool and a nice update to classic tees (which, of course will never go "out").
5. White Jeans
In no way should you put aside your blue or black jeans, but cream and white denim are definitely incorporated into the chic looks of many fashion people.
6. Slouchy Blazers
As we've highlighted, oversized blazers could be considered a top fashion-girl basic. In fact, many are starting to wear as alternatives to blouses (like showcased here).
7. Denim Midi Skirts
If it's a cool skirt style you're in the market for to wear now or to try later, make it a chic denim skirt in a midi length.
Next, check out the closet basics that will never go out of style.

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers likeReplica Store, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront ofBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing 's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
This Very Specific Look Will Be Majorly Trending This Fall—Here's How I'm Already Wearing It
It became my go-to look for Copenhagen Fashion Week, and I'll be wearing it on repeat for months.
-
Margot Robbie Just Wore the 2026 Version of the Millennial Going-Out Outfit
Hint: Bootcut jeans are not involved.
-
I'm an Experienced Fashion Editor—I Predict These 32 New Arrivals Will Sell Out by Fall
Take my word for it.
-
Millennials Love to Hate These Controversial "Sneakerinas"—Here's My Honest Review
Hot take: I love them.
-
I Style Celebrities for a Living—5 Fall Items My Clients Always Love Without Fail
The ultimate fall shopping list.
-
This Simple Fashion-Person Approved Layering Technique Changed the Way I Wear My Basics
Effortlessly cool.
-
I Live in Brooklyn and Have Laid-Back, Cool Style—Here's Everything I Want FromReplica Store Right Now
Trust me. These items will sell out fast.
-
Fashion People Are Reaching For Little Beaded Bags Right Now—31 Chic Styles That Have My Attention
From Zara to Fendi.
-
Holy Ref! Holier COS! These 27 Finds Just Got Me So Excited for Fall (Sorry, Summer—I'm Over You)
These buys plus a Gilmore Girls rewatch.
-
I Was Born Before 1990—Here Are the Contents of My Revolve Cart RN
There's something for everyone.