These 31 Anti-Trend Basics Are Quickly Becoming the Foundation of My 2025 Wardrobe
The best part is that I know they will also stick around for 2026.
Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one editor, staffer, or influencer shares their top 30 must-haves or current wish-list items.
We’re nearly five months into 2025—a time when most New Year’s resolutions have quietly faded into memory. But I’m proud to say that one of mine has stuck. This year, I vowed to break up with micro-trends and instead commit to a wardrobe built on timeless, versatile basics—the kind of pieces that transcend seasons, resist the churn of trend cycles, and make getting dressed feel effortless.
My motivation was simple: I was tired of the fashion paradox—standing in front of a packed closet yet feeling like I had nothing to wear. Like many, I fell into the trap of fast fixes and fleeting styles, ending up with a noisy wardrobe. So I hit reset.
Instead of chasing the It item, I began curating foundational staples. Think clean silhouettes, quality fabrics, neutral palettes, and elevated basics that feel just as fresh today as they will years from now.
If you’ve found yourself in a similar cycle, I invite you to keep scrolling. Ahead, I’m sharing the 31 anti-trend pieces that have become—or soon will be—the backbone of my everyday style. These aren’t just clothes; they’re tools for building more outfits with fewer items, all while achieving that elusive balance of chic, elegant, and put-together.
Last year, I discovered these linen pants but hesitated to buy them. However, when I saw them on my Instagram feed last month, I viewed it as a sign and made the purchase. The elastic waistband and the wide-leg design make these look and feel like elegant pajama pants.
I took these home last week and have already worn them five times. The sales associate at the Everlane Soho store asked for my thoughts, as they had just received them, and I replied, "I have no notes." My one recommendation is to size up and wear them low on the hips.
I've been noticing that fashion people are getting more creative with belt styling, and I've been wanting to give it a try. So I'm adding this new Carven style to my wardrobe. It has an extended leather strap, allowing it to be wrapped around a skirt, jeans, or a top multiple times.
Elevated chinos are the number one anti-trend pant style of 2025. This pair acts as a foundation, offering endless opportunities for creative styling through color, texture, and shape
If you read my review on The Dean Easy Jeans, then you know how obsessed I am with them. I love their loose fit and frayed hem, which lend a laid-back, effortless feel without veering into sloppy territory.
White jeans are a year-round staple, not just for summer. So if you don't already own a high-quality pair, grab these from Citizens of Humanity. They have a universally flattering barrel-leg design that hits at the perfect length for all shoes, from boots to flats.
Sorry, I lied—I don't own these yet, but when I do, I know they'll become a key piece in my capsule wardrobe.
When senior fashion editor Eliza Huber pointed these out, I immediately added them to my cart and checked out. They have become my favorite pants to grab when I'm uncertain about my outfit, as they exude that effortless cool-girl vibe, whether worn with a tee, a blazer, or simply a sweater.
While many praise Khaite's denim, I believe its footwear collection is equally impressive—if not superior. These timeless leather loafers can complement any outfit and accessory, as they feature no metal hardware.
Nikki Chwatt is an associate fashion editor based in New York City. She joined Who What Wear in 2024 after writing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content for WWD, Well+Good, Editorialist, and more. With a passion for personal style and the creativity that comes with it, one of Chwatt's goals is to help others understand that there is no such thing as a “good” or “bad” style; it’s just about putting an outfit together that makes you feel confident in yourself. When she's not writing, you can find her taking a Pilates class, reading a powerful romance novel, or exploring a new wellness spot in Manhattan.
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