I'm routinely on the hunt for great basics for myself, my friends, and you, dear readers. Those perfect basics—versatile and modern items—are always appealing because they often become true workhorses in a wardrobe given the plethora of styling opportunities. J.Crew, Banana Republic, and Zara are three retailers that consistently stock top-notch basics.
I spent one afternoon scrolling through the hundreds of items at this trio of retailers to curate an edit of the elevated basics that I think are absolute perfection. You'll uncover everything from chic shirting (like the striped iteration featured above) to linen shorts and trousers to great tees you're bound to wear all the time. Keep scrolling for all of that and more.
J.Crew
Easy and chic.
A fantastic oversize shirt.
A versatile LBD.
Our editors can't get enough of this tee.
As the name states, perfect.
Try this LBD with flat or heeled sandals.
This is an elevated basic that could be styled with shorts, jeans, trousers, and skirts.
So pretty!
These classic denim shorts are never not in style.
I'm loving these corduroy trousers.
Banana Republic
Note that belt detail.
Cute!
Yes to the cut.
Timeless.
This blazer will bring instant polish to any look.
New jeans, anyone?
An elevated tee.
Comfy and chic.
This vest is very elegant.
Dreamy with trousers.
Zara
You'll get so much wear out of this shirt.
Gorgeous.
Can't go wrong with denim shorts.
This tee looks so much more expensive than its price tag.
Darling with jeans.
This skirt is definitely a next-level basic and could be worn for a variety of occasions.
A little hint of green.
A vest top is so chic.
Cool. Period.
Such a polished take on a denim jacket.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
-
The 33 Best Anti-Trend Items at Zara, According to a Fashion EditorTime for a summer basics upgrade.
-
My Love Language Is Summer Linens and Cottons—J.Crew and Anthropologie Speak It FluentlyHeat-wave approved.
-
Linens, Trousers, and Button-Downs, Oh My! These 30 Banana Republic Sale Picks Are Summer MagicUp to 60% off.
-
Aritzia Is a Fashion-Person Paradise—These 25 Standouts Are Now on Major SaleThe basics alone are worth checking out.
-
It's Now or Never—54 Last-Minute Amazon Prime Day Deals You'll Regret SkippingElevated basics, celeb dupes, luxe-like styles, and more on sale.
-
When I'm Not Shopping Amazon Prime Day, It's These Chic Deals (Ahem, J.Crew, COS, and Banana Republic)On-trend finds you won't want to miss.
-
I Went to Shop the Zara Sale But Got Distracted by These 27 New-In Buys and Never Looked BackThey are too good.
-
Not The Row, Not Khaite: The Affordable Wardrobe Basic Kendall Jenner Wears With Trousers Is on Sale on AmazonIt costs less than an iced matcha latte.
