"Love Your Outfit" Compliments Are Correlated to These 3 Chic Basics

Our biggest priority when putting together a "perfect outfit” is to create a look that truly leans into our own unique styles. Of course, an ensemble that also happens to be comfortable is a bonus—so is one that garners a compliment or two from our inner circle. On that note, during one of our recent team meetings, the convo eventually led to a shopping discussion about the fall pieces we’re all particularly loving. Interestingly enough, there were three elevated basics that received the most praise given the fact that, when paired with other chic items, they often inspire those "love your outfit” compliments.
Here, we’re talking about next-level versatile items that are simple yet fashion-forward and will garner those A+ reactions. If you’re intrigued and looking to potentially add a fresh staple into your mix for the season, what’s coming your way might be of particular interest. Keep scrolling to check out the three compliment-worthy trendy basics in question, complete with styling and shopping inspiration.
1. Sweater-Vest
"I immediately fed into the sweater-vest trend and picked up this nude one and have already styled it in so many ways. My friends complimented me on how I paired it with a summer dress to transition into fall, and they added one to their carts right away. It technically counts as a basic, but I think it elevates any outfit immediately." — Yusra Siddiqui, Assistant Market Editor
Shop sweater-vests:
2. Tailored Trousers
"Trousers have been noticeably missing from my wardrobe, so I was on the hunt for a pair and immediately gravitated toward the slouchy, comfortable styles that have been popping up for fall. I've been living in this relaxed (but tailored) style because it makes me feel a bit pulled together, even if I'm just wearing it with a simple T-shirt. And every time I put them on, I always get questions about where they're from." — Kristen Nichols, Senior Fashion Editor
Shop trousers:
3. Chic Crew-Neck Sweater
"A simple crew-neck sweater is definitely my favorite go-to basic in my closet. Whether I am throwing it around my shoulders or tucking it into my favorite trousers, I have found that, although simple, a good sweater can really make or break your look." — Lauren Eggertsen, Senior Fashion Editor
Shop crew-neck sweaters:
Next, The 5 Simple Fall Trends I Like Best Are All Available at Nordstrom Now
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
Lazy Luxury Is the New Quiet Luxury (Which Is Now Dead, BTW)
Here's how to do it right.
-
Of Course, 2025's Cali Summer Uniform Involves This Timeless Denim Trend
Can you take any guesses?
-
8 Pieces, 15 Outfits: Inside My Anti-Trend Summer Capsule Wardrobe
Outfit repeating like it's my job.
-
Is It Just Me, or Is Everyone With Cool Style Suddenly Wearing This Specific Rich-Looking Outfit?
It's taking over with a quiet kind of authority.
-
3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel Stale
Foolproof solutions.
-
I Styled 7 Nordstrom Outfits for Under $325 That Are Very Fashion Person Coded
Stylish summer looks ahead.
-
I Can't Stand It When People Follow These Fashion Rules to a T
It's time to break the rules.
-
10 Style Tips That Will Make You Look Rich This Summer
Number four is already trending.