It's widely known that basics are the foundation of a smart, stylish wardrobe, and anyone in the fashion world will tell you to invest in those everyday essentials. Look at the coveted French-girl style, built on high-quality basics. In recent years, however, a stigma has come to surround the word "basic," so I want to debunk the idea that basic (especially basic wardrobe pieces) means boring, average, or tasteless. Never underestimate the power of a white tee or tailored blazer in creating elegant, timeless outfits.
Because there's no such thing as too many white T-shirts or pairs of jeans, I'm always hunting down core pieces to add to my wardrobe. In the basics department, Shopbop gets me every time. From classic denim to soft sweaters that last forever, the retailer sells elevated basics for your everyday outfits. I repeatedly find unique styles of wardrobe staples on this editor-approved site, and these are the best updated basics I'm eyeing right now.
Classic straight-leg denim.
One reviewer calls these black sandals "the perfect shoe to throw on with any look."
These oval tortoiseshell sunnies are your next grab-and-go shades.
The chunky herringbone weave looks extra sharp on this boxy, oversize blazer.
This chain necklace is a staple jewelry piece for everyday wear.
A minimalist black crop is both a layering piece and a stand-alone night-out top. I love the deep sweetheart neckline on this one.
A crisp white button-down is a closet staple.
Re/Done makes the comfiest tees.
I love these elevated jeans with pleats and a tapered fit.
You'll never regret buying white sneakers.
The pearly snaps polish this denim shirt.
A super-flattering fitted black dress.
Invest in good white tees.
You'll return to this black half-zip sweater again and again.
I'm digging the distressed hem on these ankle-grazing jeans.
It's a cardigan. It's a top. It's both!
A scoop-neck white long-sleeve tee is a great layering piece.
This elegant bracelet complements any outfit.
For cool-girl dark jeans, go for washed-black denim with rips.
For when you want to be comfy but look classy.
These light-wash jeans go with everything—boots, sneakers, heels, T-shirts, sweaters, blouses, sweatshirts… I could go on.
The perfect relaxed but not too baggy jean jacket.
This cashmere pullover is rich.
I'm a huge fan of wearing white jeans all year round, and I love the eggshell color on this slightly undone style.
A simple, timeless leather tote.
Black strappy heels go with just about everything.
A white tank never fails.
You see boring black boots all the time, but you'll stand out in a distinctive pair like these square-toe Chelsea boots.
A stylish sweatshirt.
For warm days, a pair of relaxed blue-jean shorts with a white tee is a simple yet stylish look. I also love pairing mine with some strappy heels and a going-out top for a nighttime 'fit.
Next, 30 Wardrobe Basics I'd Splurge on and 30 More Affordable Options