It's Official—Fashion People Are Obsessed With These 25 Basic Fashion Items

This comes in four colours, but the most timeless are the black and camel versions. 

COS's simple leather crossbody has become an unexpected staple in fashionable wardrobes. We've lost count of the times it has sold out, but you're in luck, as the classic black just landed back in stock. 

Even Kate Middleton is a fan of these perfect straight-leg jeans. Click through to find them in 11 shades. 

This throw-on-and-go jacket has become the ultimate cosy piece. Its beauty lies in its ability to be worn for spring, autumn and layered up in winter. 

If you're after a slightly warmer blazer that can be worn as a jacket too, & Other Stories' wool style has been a best seller for years now. 

Ask any fashion insider, and they'll point you to Uniqlo for affordable cashmere. Of course, there are many colours, but I love a classic grey. Size up for a more modern, looser fit. 

The holy grail. Enough said. 

It may only be £6, but trust me when I say it's the best around. The cotton is thick, so there's no need to wear a bra (unless you prefer to), and it doesn't stretch out after washing either. Forgo designer versions, and just bulk-buy this whenever you're lucky enough to find it in stock.

You might notice that a lot of the items on this list come from Arket—that's because it really does basics the best, matching lasting quality with basic designs that aren't boring, like these chunky ankle boots to go with everything. I've had my pair of Arket boots for three years now, and they're still my most-worn pair of shoes.

The fashion industry has agreed COS's wide-leg trousers really are the best around. Premium quality and elevated design have earned them this title. 

If you're looking for the "perfect" version of a basic—like the ultimate white shirt—it's always a safe bet to head to Arket.

Coming in no fewer than 15 colourways, this roll-neck is no doubt the ultimate layering piece. 

After a simple, cosy jumper that will never age? Fashion editors all wear this one. 

I wrote about my love for these incredibly comfortable jeans here. 

From Kaia Gerber to, well, me, Reformation's Mason pants have a loyal fan club that only continues to grow. The sustainable brand has absolutely nailed it with these slouchy, perfect-fitting wide-leg trousers. They come in lots of colours, and there's a petite version for those of us under 5'3".

The ultimate chic wool coat to last you forever. 

If you're not into cult trainer trends and want something that will be "cool" forever, it's these.

The most expensive piece on this list, but I think time has proven that a striped knit could never be a bad investment. Everyone I know who has this wears its on repeat, and that's what a good basic should be.

So many of you loved this COS coat last year, and it's just rereleased it for another season—thankfully. 

The best-selling coat on Who What Wear—which makes sense because it's timeless, stylish and incredibly practical and warm. Tick, tick, tick.

I genuinely believe this jumper is so popular because the unique mock neck (not quite a chilly crew neck, not quite an overwhelming roll neck) is so flattering. Whichever colour you choose, this basic will last you many winters to come. 

H&M's wide-leg tailored trousers sell out impossibly fast, but they keep coming back in various forms, so you just have to be savvy to bag a pair. These just landed—go, go, go!

Another basic your winter wardrobe will be very grateful for. These work perfectly tucked into wide-leg trousers. 

It wouldn't be a list of basics without some New Balance trainers, would it? From weekends with leggings to work with tailoring, throw these on for easy style points every time. 

Whenever our team of editors put our heads together to consider what makes an elevated wardrobe, a classic black-and-gold belt always makes the list. Yes, you could opt for a logo-ed version from Gucci or YSL, but this COS version is more understated and timeless.