What are the hardest-working items in your wardrobe? I'd hazard a guess your answer comes in the form of some kind of trusty basic—whether it's a basic white tee, a button-down, skinny jeans, or leggings. These are the pieces that we can rely on time and time again to ground our looks and solve practically every fashion dilemma.
Today, we're sharing the basics worth investing in that have longevity in your closet. These will serve as the backbone of your wardrobe, which you'll easily be able to mix and match with other statement pieces. But most importantly, these enduring staples defy all trends and will never go out of style. So if you're looking to update your basics right now and don't want to spend a fortune, read on to see our classic and timeless picks for under $150.
1. White Button Down
A white button-down in a relaxed silhouette will truly stand the test of time, adding an effortless yet pulled together touch to your look. The best part is you can style it so many ways: tucked into high-waisted jeans, relaxed and slightly unbuttoned over leggings, with shorts or sweats, or under a knit top.
Shop:
2. Straight-Leg and Skinny Jeans
Classic slim-fitting and straight-leg denim silhouettes are always reliable and versatile. They're easy to pair with practically every top and pair of shoes in your wardrobe. Opt for a pair with clean lines (sans distressing) for longevity.
Shop:
3. White Tee
A crisp white tee will never go out of style. Jane Birkin swore by them in the '60s and fashion girls today still favor them for their classic, cool, and effortless style.
Shop:
4. Blazer
A timeless blazer in a neutral hue such as beige, black, gray, or check is a classic piece you'll wear forever. It adds instant polish to even the simplest of outfits.
Shop:
5. Black Leggings
Where would we be without our comfortable black leggings? They're undoubtedly are go-to for comfy, off-duty style. Wear them with a hoodie, trench, and chunky sneakers for a casual-cool look.
Shop:
6. Trench Coat
Trench coats are a jacket style that has true sticking power. Whether you opt for a classic silhouette or one with reinvented details, you can guarantee it'll be the topper you reach for year-round (and 10 years from now!).
Shop:
7. White Sneakers
Classic white sneakers will always be in style. They unquestionably deserve a spot in your wardrobe as the most timeless and versatile casual shoes you'll own. They're easy to pair with floral midi dresses and jeans alike. We love classic styles such as Superga Cotu, Reebok Classics, and Converse Chuck Taylor's.
Shop:
8. Cardigan
Whether you go for a cropped style or an oversize option, cardigans of all colors and lengths have true longevity in our closet. Pair them with your sweats, jeans, shorts, midi skirts… the list goes on.
Shop:
9. Turtleneck Sweater
Turtlenecks are without a doubt the unsung hero of our wardrobes. They add an air of sophistication to every outfit and they're the perfect layering piece. Opt for a black or white tissue-thin turtleneck in a formfitting silhouette. Perfect for the more pleasant temps on the horizon.
Shop:
Up next, I tried the three best-selling white t-shirts on Who What Wear—here are my thoughts.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to WearReady in 10 minutes or less.
-
The Only 9 Jackets You Need for Spring, According to Fashion PeopleThere's something for everyone.
-
And Now, 5 Elevated Ways to Wear Your Jeans in 2024Denim devotees, unite.
-
After 5 Days in Aspen, I'm Officially Hooked on Western Pieces—5 I'm Loving RNFrom cowboy hats to fringe accents.
-
I Asked Over 2000 Women Where to Buy the Best White Shirts—They Love These 23Your definitive guide.
-
Here's How French Women Are Styling Their Jeans Right NowTake note.
-
French Women Always Wear This Jeans-and-Flats Outfit FormulaEasy as un, deux, trois.
-
I Went to France and Saw Everyone Wearing These 5 Basics on the Streets of ParisEffortless and chic.
