I am a fashion editor, and I consider my style to err on the classic side, so naturally, I am always looking for the best basics to integrate into my everyday wardrobe. I am talking about those classic items that you can wear to death, week after week, and will live with you for a lifetime. They solve any daily "what to wear" dressing dilemmas, always look good, and can be styled with virtually anything. I could write a novel on the best classic items that every closet needs, but to start, I am sharing a list of my five nonnegotiables.
This list includes everything from the iconic trench coat—which can be worn during nearly every season, depending on what climate you live in—to a few pieces that might have seen some trending action over the past few seasons but are definite essentials, in my opinion. For one, a relaxed button-down looks just as smart for a day at the office as it does on the beach over a bikini.
Keep reading below to find my top five basics that are true classics and that I know you will keep turning to over and over again.
5 Classic Items That Will Always Be in Style:
1. Trench Coats
Shop Trench Coats:
This light-taupe twill option also comes in black and beige.
There is an easy elegance to this one.
Cool, classic, and under £100—what a steal.
For those tall readers out there (or those who love a little extra hem length), this one is for you.
Take your pick from khaki or beige. Either way, it is an incredibly chic, everyday choice.
2. Wide-Leg Trousers
Shop Wide-Leg Trousers:
Simple suit pants can be worn to the office or out on the town with a going-out top.
You'll be sure to live in this fresh neutral pair all year round.
Try this in deep brown hue for the colder months ahead.
The comfiest trousers you will find thanks to a elasticated waist that makes them extremely stretchy.
A little more relaxed, these pleat-front trousers are all I want to wear this season.
3. Oversize Button-Downs
Shop Oversize Button-Downs:
Bright-white poplin is always a must-have in any wardrobe.
When you don't know what to wear, throw on this shirt for instant polish.
This striped option has the perfect fitted silhouette you've been dreaming of.
Trust me, this will work in every scenario imaginable.
The Lui shirt consistently sells out, for good reason. Scoop up yours in white, blue, black, or even a bold orange.
4. Denim Midi Skirts
Shop Denim Midi Skirts:
Style with a white tee or a chambray shirt in a similar wash for a stylish approach.
Break up the blues with a black wash that's perfect for autumn.
Perfect for in or out of the office.
A lighter denim wash brings an elegant twist to this everyday essential silhouette.
This one has buttons down the front, so you can play with showing a little or a lot of leg.
5. Structured Blazers
Shop Structured Blazers:
You can't go wrong with the best basics, and this blazer is just that.
A little more fluid, this wool blazer offers that perfectly oversize look.
Pair with jeans and heels for a night out to mix up your usual styling go-tos.
Show off your waistline with this corset-seamed style that is extremely flattering.
This double-breasted style has just the right amount of sharp shoulder action.
-
Stand Down, Basic Jeans—This Dated But Pretty Denim Trend Is on Its Way BackIt's already all over H&M, Mango and Anthro.
-
I’m Already In Autumn Mode: 7 Elegant Outfit Ideas I’ve Just Added to My MoodboardI'm counting down the days.
-
Jenna Ortega's Airport Outfit Includes the Autumn Shoe I'd Wear Anywhere Except Through SecurityThe least practical shoe.
-
Not Leather, Not Suede—The Transitional Jacket That Fashion Editors Swear By All Year RoundFrom the coast to the country.
-
9 Easy But Chic Outfits I Just Added to My Autumn 2025 MoodboardThey're so simple to recreate.
-
Looking Expensive Is My Goal, So I'll Wearing Be These 7 Elegant Autumn Colour Trends NonstopHere come the hues.
-
Don’t Let Your Skinny Jeans Hear This— They’re Being Replaced By This Dated-But-Chic Denim TrendThe signs are there.
-
Basic Jeans Aren't Out, But This Denim Trend Feels Way More 2025Hint: it's not blue, black or white.
