Brilliant Basics: Investing in Chic Wardrobe Staples—7 to Start

Let me start by saying that I'm an advocate for investing more in your elevated, everyday basics than your fancy special occasion things. You get to wear them all the time! They become the things that really form your style, much more so than what you dress up in to wear to some wedding.

I'm talking about cool flats that are so comfortable that you never wonder if you should wear them. The sweater you'll reach for every single time you're not sure what to wear. A chic tote that fits the everyday things you schlep around with, and makes your outfit rather than breaking it. Versatility and wearability are what makes pieces so worth investing in—if that’s what you’re into, I'm sharing excellent more affordable options as well as designer styles, so go ahead and take your pick of these hard-working, versatile staples that really are doing the most.

Luxe Scarves

In the middle of July, against all common sense, I bought a black Loewe scarf the second it came back in stock (note that it's back in stock again, and available is a slew of great colors). As far as investment purchases go, this cozy accessory is one I knew would be regret-free: Far less likely to accidentally be left in the back of a cab than a hat or gloves, and absolutely guaranteed to always be in style. After waiting patiently many months to wear it, I can confirm: Many compliments. Zero regrets.

Cashmere Knits

The good news is that cashmere isn't the insane investment it once was—the likes of Everlane and J.Crew are making the softest possible knitwear more accessible than ever. Whatever your go-to style—oversized, cropped, crew or v-neck, sweater or cardigan—a cozy cashmere version in a neutral tone always looks and feels a million bucks.

Fancy Flats

As someone who lives in New York and is always bopping around the city, there's truly nothing I like better than finding a pair of polished flats that are so insanely comfortable I'm not even tempted to reach for my sneakers. These four pairs very much fit the bill—Mary Janes are still a huge trend, but this glove style (a slightly more forward iteration of ballet flats) or a soft-back leather loafer have my vote for most comfortable of all.

Black Denim

Yes, blue jeans, of course. But I'm here to make the case here for really investing in your black denim. A faded wash is always cool, but an ultra-dark pair is elite when it comes to dressing up or down (particularly when paired with, oh I don't know, chic flats and a great sweater). Guaranteed to take the headache out of days and nights with ambiguous dress codes.

Elevated Totes

Right up there with footwear (which is in first place because I've truly lost all tolerance for being uncomfortable), an elevated everyday shopper is an outfit game-changer. Whether it's for commuting or traveling or just schlepping around with your book, these are all great upgrades to your New Yorker tote that you'll be as happy carrying to dinner as you will the office.

Winter-Weight Blazers

A winter-weight blazer is where it's at, something neutral in a wool blend with a texture and weight that feels right in the chillier months. These are my favorites on offer at the moment, shoutout to Topshop and Mango for offering such goof options under $200.

Everyday Jewelry

It really took me until my 30s to feel like I had cool, quality jewelry to elevate my super-simple outfits. I'm still waiting to invest in a watch, but in the meantime great earrings for my multiple piercings and sculptural bracelets are my staples.