I Love Simple Yet Elevated Style—5 Basics That Make Any Outfit Look Expensive

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(Image credit: @christietyler)

For as long as I can remember, simple yet elevated has been my go-to aesthetic. Think classic '90s minimalism meets French chic. One of the mainstays that I have discovered I lean on the most in cultivating this look has always been a rotating set of elevated basics that speaks to the current season and, at times, the current trends of the moment.

This winter, there are some key pieces I have my eye on with all this in mind. To start with, it's sweater season, and effortless sweaters that happen to be right up my alley are abundant. Another key basic, with consideration to what is trending, is a chic boat-neck top. For more of my top picks, scroll on to check out all five basics I am reaching for this season—these pieces are all guaranteed to make any outfit look expensive. Plus, you'll wear them forever.

1. Effortless Sweaters

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(Image credit: @abimarvel)

From turtlenecks to crew-necks in solids and stripes, there is a wide array of effortless sweaters to chose from this season. Wear your favorite with jeans, skirts, and more.

2. Chic Trousers

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(Image credit: @jordanrisa)

A pair of chic trousers instantly elevates any look since they feel more formal and put-together. Best thing about these pants is that you can easily dress them up or down, so they will definitely get a lot of wear.

3. Sleek Boat-Neck Tops

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(Image credit: @christietyler)

An interesting neckline is always a plus in my book. This season, I am eyeing boat-neck tops in a variety of neutral options to wear with everything from jeans to skirts.

4. Pared-Down Black Shoes

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

When in doubt, a pair of simple black shoes with an elevated feel is always a good choice. Slingback heels, chic flats, and boots are currently top of mind.

5. Classic Coats

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(Image credit: @leasy_inparis)

A classic coat is a surefire way to elevate an outfit with minimal effort. You could be wearing the most basic of ensembles, but throw on one of these chic coats and you immediately look and feel more polished.

Jennifer Camp Forbes
Contributing Editor

Jennifer Camp Forbes is currently the shopping updates editor at Who What Wear, where she has worked in a variety of capacities for over a decade, including creative director and various editor roles. She’s well-known as a shopping expert that’s sought out for advice and insight on the latest trends, outfit ideas, and fashion picks thanks to her thoughtful shopping roundups, digital moodboards, and extensive knowledge of up-and-coming brands, plus the new arrivals sections of the chicest retailers. Jennifer has had a lifelong interest in fashion which led her to intern at Harper’s Bazaar as an undergraduate. Later, while working towards her masters degree in psychological counseling at Columbia University, she founded two digital fashion publications: Le Fashion and Olsens Anonymous. The popularity of both sites grew and after graduation she decided put her plans to become a therapist aside to pursue a career in fashion. While she has called Los Angeles and New York City home in the past, she currently works remotely from Massachusetts. When she’s not obsessing over and writing about her latest fashion finds, she is delighting in raising two little ones with her highschool sweetheart, perusing TikTok religiously, listening to podcasts and audiobooks, creating abstract photographs, and eating the best Mexican food she can get her hands on.