Sometimes We're Anti-Trend—7 Modern Classics We'll Never Stop Wearing

As fashion editors, identifying trends and editing the market to narrow down the most noteworthy trends are critical parts of our job. And while we certainly enjoy discovering and wearing the latest trends, we're also into anti-trend items. By this, we mean timeless items that can feel forward and modern but still have longevity due to their more classic nature.

Below you'll learn more about the modern classics a few Who What Wear editors have deemed true wardrobe staples they'll never stop wearing. These pieces aren't overly trendy and certainly fall into that essential category. If you want to freshen up your wardrobe by mixing in a new item or two, peep the shopping recommendations I sprinkled throughout. 

Relaxed Button-Down Shirt

"Sure, they may be having a moment right now, but oversize button-down shirts are a closet essential that won't leave my possession anytime soon (or ever). I might change up the way I wear mine from season to season—in the winter, I layer them over turtlenecks, and in the summer, I wear them open as a beach cover-up—but ultimately, they're too classic and versatile to ever tire of." — Anna LaPlaca, editor

Oversize Blazer

"I've been living in Paris for the past few weeks, and since I got here, there hasn't been a day where I didn't slip on an oversize blazer before heading out the door. It's the wardrobe staple I simply can't live without. Whether it's a T-shirt and jeans or a fancy dinner dress, I know my favorite blazer will pair well with whatever I wear. Plus, I feel like the oversize fit is a modern spin on an all-time classic." — Sierra Mayhew, associate fashion editor

Denim Shorts

"Denim shorts have always been a staple in my spring and summer wardrobe (as evidenced by the stack of them in my closet). I'm particularly fond of the longer, looser Agolde styles, as my two-inch inseam days are over. They always look polished." — Ally Payer, senior fashion editor

Striped Top

"I'll never stop wearing a striped tee. It's one of my favorite simple pieces that instantly makes a cute look when paired with virtually any bottoms. I also love there are so many cuts and styles available, so it's easy to find one that caters to your aesthetic. Everyone from French girls to street-style fans can appreciate a striped tee." — ChiChi Offor, associate shopping editor

Maxi Skirt

"Maxi skirts may be trendy for some, but as a modest dresser, they've always been a classic staple to me. There's something about a long black wool skirt or slip skirt that polishes an outfit so perfectly. It's so easy to dress them up or down as well." — Yusra Siddiqui, associate editor

Loose Trousers

"I used to wear skinny jeans and slim trousers a lot, but I've gone for looser cuts over the last few years. And honestly, I don't foresee myself giving up this look for a long, long time. They're so easy and effortlessly chic. Plus, you can dress them up or down." — Bobby Schuessler, shopping director

Leather Trench

"While there are so many staple pieces, I swear by, if I'm being sincere, there is only one I live in 90% of the time: leather trench coats. What makes them the superior staple, in my mind, is how the silhouette is super versatile—in all the different variations of the style you can buy and in all the various ways you can style it. It's the type of piece you can wear on a crisp spring day or a cold enough summer night, and even in the fall and winter too." — Jasmine Fox-Suliaman, editor

Next, check out more amazing basics.