22 of Our Favorite Classic, No-Frills Fashion Items Right Now

As fashion editors, we're lucky to get to wear a lot of the latest trends and newest brands both to work and in life, but a wardrobe can't live on neon and tie-dye alone (speaking specifically of 2019, clearly), so we balance things out with classic fashion items that are devoid of frills. Call them basics, "boring" pieces, or wardrobe staples—whatever term you choose, you know them when you see them. You could wear these pieces multiple times a week without anyone even noticing. 

Luckily for you, us editors are pretty picky when choosing which no-frills pieces we buy. Oftentimes, we'll even spend a little more on these items because we wear them so much. But that doesn't mean many of them aren't quite affordable.

Ready to see which tees, jeans, shoes, blazers, and more no-frills finds we stock up on? Keep reading!

Judith Jones, Market Editor

"As the temps have slowly started to rise, I'm relying on trusty white tank tops to style with my high-waisted jeans and layer under lightweight spring jackets. I particularly like a modern higher neckline and ribbed textures. Here are a couple I've recently purchased."

"A striped tee is a staple item in my weekend wardrobe. It never lets me down—whether I'm styling it with jeans, a skirt, or over a slip dress. I'm really into large bold stripes right now."

"I wear these practically every day. They're the most flattering high-waisted straight-leg jeans around in my opinion."

Kat Collings, Editor in Chief

"This blazer is form-fitting, which makes it rather flattering. The stretch wool blend means it curves around your body. It's completely different than your typical boxy blazer! I get a ton of wear out of this piece and would recommend it to anyone."

"I bow down to The Invisibles underwear by Calvin Klein. They are my grown-up Hanky Pankys (not that I still don't have those too), except these are actually seamless under clothing and way more comfortable."

Kristen Nichols, Managing Editor

"I can't get enough of the oversize blazer look. This one from Anine Bing is my favorite silhouette because it's boxy but still tailored."

"Just-launched brand Grayson specializes in the perfect-fitting button-down shirts, and they're now a staple in my closet."

"There's a reason nearly every Who What Wear editor owns these jeans—you can't beat this fit."

Allyson Payer, Editor

"I wear T-shirts a lot but when I want to dress an outfit up a bit, I wear this knit polo. The material is surprisingly luxurious for the price point."

"These are the best white sneakers I've found, by far. I imagine that they're one of those items I'll keep buying throughout life when they wear out."

"Aritzia has the best ribbed knit tank tops. I'm contemplating investing in a few more colors of this one before they inevitably sell out."

Lauren Eggertsen, Editor

"This entire suit is extremely good, but the blazer, in particular, really caught my eye. It would look great over jeans for a casual look or even over a silk slip skirt for a more elevated approach. This jacket is one you'll have in your closet for years—the style is a classic."

"No frills—just a simple strappy spring sandal I plan on wearing all season long. I love the olive color as it can be paired with both browns and blacks with ease."

Anna LaPlaca, Assistant Editor

"I always have a blazer on repeat no matter the season, and lately I'm reaching for this lightweight linen piece from our Who What Wear collection that was basically made for warm-weather outfits. I love that it comes with the option to wear it belted or not, depending on the vibe of the outfit."

"These easy, relaxed-fit jeans have quickly risen to the top of my denim pile. I love that they hit on the '90s trend but are ultimately so wearable. Right now, my go-to combo involves a cool tee, some sort of heel or platform shoe and a blazer thrown on top."

"Adding a structured bag to just about any outfit adds a dose of polish. Sure, they may be trending for spring and summer, but it's a bag trend that's as timeless as ever."

Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour, Market Editor

"I pretty much live in jeans and T-shirts but always rotate favorites. Right now, despite the fact that spring is here, I still can't quit this black tee or these black jeans."

Erin Fitzpatrick, Senior News Editor

"A simple bralette is so much more comfortable than a fussy push-up bra. I like Richer Poorer's because they're affordable and come in so many fun colors."

"You can keep your complicated strappy sandals; I prefer sleek slides like this Amanu version."

"I'll never stop hoarding basic white T-shirts, but this Pangaia version is extra special because it's sustainably made with seaweed fiber (yes, really) and organic cotton."

Next up, seven boring basics NYC girls wear daily.