10 Perfect Outfits You Can Create With Just the Basics
Not to play favorites, but basics are low-key the best things in my closet. If you ran into me on the street, there's a 90% chance that the outfit I'm wearing consists of only basics. After all, these staples more or less anchor my looks and have a keen ability to be easily mixed and matched with those more trendy pieces that pop up each season. While I love a more trend-driven item, I'm in a long-term relationship with my basics. So today, I'm skipping over those buzzier trends to discuss the outfit perfection that can happen when you pair a few elevated basics together in a forward way. Because, really, sometimes all you need to create an A+ fall 'fit are the classics, so let's go back to the basics, shall we?
Here, I’m talking about pairings like a timeless denim shirt and of-the-moment western boots or classic trousers with a trendier sweater vest. To showcase all of this further, I’m highlighting how fashion people are wearing some of my favorite outfit combos below. Keep scrolling for more. You’ll also find a smattering of inspired shopping picks in case you’re looking to add something fresh into your rotation.
1. Quarter-Zip Sweater + Leggings + Loafers
Since I know you might have been in need of some fresh styling ideas for your leggings. A quarter-zip sweater, especially a varsity-inspired striped one, is the perfect update for plain black leggings.
2. Denim Shirt + Jeans + Ankle Boots
We all have some double denim ensembles we pull out of our closets, don't we? Pair yours with western-inspired boots for a classic, but of-the-moment, take.
3. Racer Tank + Slip Skirt + Chunky Knit
Slip skirts are easily one of our all-time wardrobe MVPs—there's nothing more versatile. Build a simple look around yours by pairing it with a ribbed tank and ankle boots. A chunky sweater is an easy addition if you need another layer and we love the effortless way Sylvie tied hers.
4. Sweater-Vest + Relaxed Jeans + Chunky Boots
Instead of jeans and a tee, try a sweater vest as a top. It's just as straightforward but looks so much more current for the season. Extra points if you pair it with relaxed denim.
5. Blazer + Turtleneck + Belt + Flare Jeans
Jeans and a blazer—nothing new to see here. Transform the classic combo by belting the blazer to create a structured silhouette.
6. Trench Coat + Tank + Loose Trousers + Sneakers
Fall 2021 is all about relaxed tailoring. Try this comfy outfit consisting of wide-leg trousers and a trench coat when your sweats just aren't cutting it for a quick coffee run.
7. Crew-Neck + Miniskirt + Socks + Loafers
Loafers, socks, and crewneck sweatshirts may be plain basics on their own, but combine them with a pleated mini skirt and it gives the ultimate prep-school vibe.
8. T-Shirt + Sweater-Vest + Loose Trousers + Clogs
If we can't shut up about sweater vests right now, it's for good reason. They just add such a fresh spin to basic outfits. We love wearing one over a boxy T-shirt with trousers like so.
9. Blazer + Bright Knit + Straight Jeans + Loafers
Another can't-go-wrong ensemble with jeans and a blazer. Add some color into the mix when you layer the blazer over a bright sweater.
10. Blazer + Skinny Jeans + Bucket Boots
Where my skinny jeans stans at? If the slim-fit denim is your favorite wardrobe basic, then style them like so with a big blazer and bucket boots for a very 2021 spin.
Up next, Your Fall-Basics Checklist: The 7 Handiest Buys of the Season
Anna is an editor on the fashion team atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews withBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing 's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.
-
For These Latin American Brand Founders, Wellness Is Meaningful, Complex, and Rooted in Culture
Learn about their practices and philosophies.
By Kaitlyn McLintock
-
I'm a FormerReplica Store Buyer—I Was Just in Europe and Saw These Fall Trends Everywhere
Including the color of the season.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
With Pieces This Chic, I Can See Why Red Still Reigns Supreme Among the Fashion Set
Plus, some stellar outfit ideas to get you inspired.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
We Can't Believe These "Ugly" Shoes Are Back—4 Styling Ideas That Are Actually So Chic
Add some prep to your step.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
5 Chic Skirt-and-Shoe Combos Fashion People Will Be Reaching for All Fall Long
100% adding these to my current outfit rotation.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Emily Ratajkowski Found the Perfect Shoe Trend to Transition a White Midi Skirt to Fall
No need to retire this popular trend yet.
By Allyson Payer
-
9 Fall Outfits Elsa Hosk Already Figured Out for You
The expert herself.
By Allyson Payer
-
If You Love the '90s and French Style, These 8 Outfits Will Speak to You
The best of both worlds.
By Allyson Payer
-
3 Classic Outfit Combinations Our Editors Can't Wait to Wear This Fall
Sponsor Content Created With PAIGE
By Raina Mendonça
-
Scandi Women Wore This Controversial Shoe Trend With Jeans During Fashion Week
New Yorkers hate these shoes.
By Ana Escalante