The Key to Zero Buyer's Remorse Is Investing In Chic Basics—5 to Consider First

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best elevated basics shown in a photo of a woman wearing a brown blazer over a white t-shirt with denim shorts

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

As someone who threw herself wholly into house renovations this past year, I became intimately acquainted with HGTV. I love a good fixer-upper show, just like I’ve always loved a movie makeover montage. The best ones, in my humble opinion, aren’t a total teardown but an improvement on the original. "Good bones,” someone may say while touring an old Victorian, testing creaky steps before marveling at the natural light or beautiful crown molding. This same rule of thumb can be applied to your wardrobe. Maybe you’re keen on a total reinvention for the new season, or maybe you can’t string together a solid look.

Whatever your dressing goals are, building your closet around a few elevated staples will take the guesswork out of everyday dressing. I rely on a few tried-and-true pieces to demystify the process. Having these in my arsenal always gives me a solid foundation to build upon, whether I’m feeling classic, trendy, or wild that day. Are you keen on finding your own building blocks? I got you. Keep scrolling for a comprehensive breakdown of the best places to shop for elevated basics and five key pieces worth buying right now.

Where to Buy Elevated Basics

best elevated basics shown in a photo of a woman wearing a tan suede jacket over a white t-shirt with a studded belt, jeans, pointed pumps and a large bag

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)
  • Mango
  • COS
  • Source Unknown
  • Massimo Dutti
  • J.Crew
  • H&M
  • Reformation
  • Aritzia
  • Zara
  • Madewell
  • & Other Stories
  • Gap
  • Dissh
  • Everlane
  • Banana Republic
  • Nordstrom

Elevated Basics Worth Buying

1. A STRIPED SWEATER

best elevated basics shown in a photo of a woman wearing a striped sweater with a black crossbody bag and black jeans

(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Stripes are enduring, a timeless pattern that never really goes out of style. They add texture and dimension to even the most neutral of closets and these cozy selections will keep you warm through spring.

2. BALLET FLATS

best elevated basics shown in a photo of a woman wearing a black turtleneck with gray trousers, a black belt, and ballet flats

(Image credit: @dawn.tan )

Did you hear? Ballet is back, baby! Whether your tastes are more restrained (black or traditional baby pink) or a little wilder (rhinestones and velvet are your speed), there's a style out there for you.

3. TRENCH WITH A TWIST

best elevated basics shown in a photo of a woman wearing a suede trench coat over a white t-shirt with blue jeans and brown ankle boots

(Image credit: @emmaleger)

Belle de Jour, The Matrix, Holly Golightly crying in the rain. The trench has long been an icon of cinema and is as much a perennial fashion favorite off-screen.

4. CREAM PANTS

best elevated basics shown on a woman wearing a white t-shirt with white trousers, a black belt, black ankle boots, and a brown handbag

(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

Cream always feels luxe, in my book. An ivory colorway is a chic spin on the traditional pair of trousers or jeans.

5. BLACK BOOTS MADE FOR WALKING (AND MORE)

best elevated basics shown in a photo of a woman wearing a tan trench coat over a white t-shirt with jeans and black ankle boots

(Image credit: @divrav)

L.A. may be a driving city, but I like to stroll. These pairs are guaranteed to add a little extra pep to your step (and a lot of pizzazz to your outfit).

This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

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Perveen Singh
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