As part of my spring cleaning, I did a major closet cleanout, removing clothes I no longer wear to free up space for all the fabulous new clothes waiting for me in the future. During my cleanout, however, I noticed a lack of great basics in my closet. I know the backbone of a stellar wardrobe is versatile basics you can wear on repeat, and now that I've tossed out my old distressed jeans and tube tops from college, I have space to start building the basics collection my wardrobe so desperately needs.
In the search for great basics, my initial reaction was to check Reformation, Shopbop, and Mango. These retailers don't mess around when it comes to basics, and as a member of Gen Z and an editor based in New York, I'm not looking for your average, run-of-the-mill basics. I found 30 basics so perfect I almost don't want to share them.
Of course, I'd never gatekeep when it comes to fashion, so scroll on to see which 30 basics I can't wait to wear.
Good American
Scuba Tee Thong Bodysuit
If I had a weekday uniform, it would be a bodysuit and jeans.
Reformation
Britton Knit Top
Meet the cropped knit tee of your dreams.
Mango
Croc-Effect Sandals
Not your average flip-flops.
Reformation
Mason Pant
A good pair of trousers are a must-have. There are so many ways to style them, and they always look chic. They're the backbone of my work wardrobe.
Splits59
Airweight Tank
This tank has a very '90s feel to it.
Mango
Asymmetrical Back Opening Dress
A black dress with an open back is simple but sexy.
Schutz
Deonne Wedges
Wedges returned in the summer of 2022, and their comeback continues in 2023. These ones have my attention.
Reformation
Lindy Knit Top
What I love about this top is that it's comfortable and super stylish at the same time. Oh, and you can style it with basically anything.
Mango
Midi Satin Skirt
This skirt comes in black, and I absolutely need it.
Free People
Kate Tee
This has been described as "the perfect tank top." I need to test-drive it myself.
Mango
Knitted Dress With Opening
This dress looks way more expensive than it is.
Mango
Strappy Heeled Sandals
Simple strappy sandals with square toes? Sign me up.
Madewell
The Signature Poplin Oversized Shirt
A poplin shirt is essential.
Pixie Market
Nia White Maxi Skirt
Maxi skirts are having a moment right now. I see myself wearing this with a belt and a white tee or tank.
Mango
Denim Mini-Skirt - Women
I just got a denim miniskirt, and I'm so excited.
Reformation
Kienna Mini Linen Dress
I'm so excited for summer because it means it's time to break out the white linen minidresses.
Mango
Flowy Palazzo Pants
A good pair of flowy pants are always good to have around. I love this off-white color too. It's perfect for summer.
Reformation
Cary High Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans
Move over, skinny jeans.
Staud
Simone Mules
These are at the top of my summer footwear wish list.
Mango
Seam-Detail Straight-Fit Trousers
These are the best trousers on the market for $40, trust me.
Reformation
Sleeveless Crewneck Tee
Easy and breezy. Plus, it also comes in black.
Staud
Sloane Heel
A good pair of mules is nonnegotiable for me. I could see myself wearing these to work, on the weekend, on vacation, to brunch—you name it, I'm probably wearing these.
Mango
Double-Button Trench Coat
Trench coat season has arrived.
Reformation
Tasha Cropped Tank
I'll take 20.
Mango
Ribbed Knit Dress With Opening
A great date-night dress.
Mango
Oversize Striped Shirt
I'll be wearing this not only as a shirt but as a swim cover-up.
Mango
Slit Denim Skirt
This skirt is so pretty.
Staud
Landry Dress
I basically live in dresses in the summer, and this classic one from Staud is easy and pretty. I'm in love.
Reformation
Cynthia High Rise Straight Cropped Jeans
I have these in the shade Colorado, and I wear them all the time. They're so comfortable and look so good on.
Reformation
Agathea Chunky Loafer
I'm all about a good loafer. Gigi Hadid loves these too.
Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Grace has always been a lover of all things fashion and beauty. Upon receiving her first degree in visual communications from FIDM in Los Angeles, she moved to New York City and continued her education at LIM College, majoring in fashion media with a minor in society and culture. Grace has worked for PhotoBook magazine, Insider, and Harper's Bazaar. As a writer, Grace has had pieces published covering topics including racial justice, fashion, politics, and current events. As the previous assistant shopping editor atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing
, Grace loves finding the best buys out there for the WWW readers.