8 Secretly Amazing Basics Brands We Never Talk About
Perhaps more so than with any other wardrobe category, everyone is loyal to their favorite basics brands, which probably has something to do with the fact that we wear them on repeat. We're all aware that Everlane, Topshop, Old Navy, and Madewell (to name a few) are excellent sources for affordable, versatile basics, but you probably already have a closet full of those brands. That's where we come in. We Who What Wear editors pride ourselves for having an extensive knowledge of under-the-radar brands, and that, naturally, includes brands with incredible basics. While you may have heard us mention some of these brands before, they're considerably more "secret" than the aforementioned ones, and we fully believe they deserve a place in your closet. Not only that, but each and every one of them is expensive-looking yet affordable. Ready to get to know the secret basics brands we're obsessed with?
Read on to familiarize yourself with some of our editors' favorite basics brands and shop their favorite piece from each!
Lacausa
"From super-cute slip dresses to tees with just the right cut, Lacausa is a current favorite of mine for fashion-forward basics." — Aemilia Madden, Editor
Cami NYC
"I am always on the hunt for a great camisole and recently started wearing some from Cami NYC. They have a slew of styles ranging from classic and silk to trimmed with lace. I love wearing mine with jeans and pumps or over a mesh shirt for a fresh night-out look." — Lauren Eggertsen, Associate Editor
Naked Cashmere
"I like that Naked Cashmere is direct-to-consumer. This translates to increased transparency and more-affordable luxury basics. Win!" — Kat Collings, Editor in Chief
Sloane & Tate
"Sloane & Tate is an amazing L.A.-based basics brand that creates pieces for women, by women. I recommend starting with the bra and tank sections, I promise you'll fall in love with their incredibly soft fabrics." — Michelle Scanga, Managing Editor
Lou & Grey
"Lou & Grey, which is owned by Ann Inc. is a favorite of mine for cozy sweaters and affordable activewear. I'm currently obsessing over this cool mesh sweater—it's perfect for the winter-to-spring transitional period." — Allyson Payer, Editor
Grana
"Another favorite of mine for ultra-affordable basics made of high-quality materials is Grana, and the Hong Kong–based direct-to-consumer company's silk pieces are my current must-haves. I'd repurpose this pretty pajama top as a camisole under a blazer." — Allyson Payer, Editor
DSTLD
"DSTLD makes incredible denim and leather pieces that are simple and minimal. Plus, they're sold without retail markup, which makes them pretty affordable. The midrise skinny jeans are a perfect fit, and their moto jacket is a classic staple." — Kristen Nichols, Associate Editor
COS
"I'm obsessed with the basics from COS, especially their tees, bralettes, and minimalist swimsuits. Not only are they just right in terms of fit, but they're ultra affordable, too!" — Nicole Akhtarzad, Market Editor