5 Simple Yet Striking Basics That You'll Wear for Many Years Are All at Nordstrom

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fashion collage of three influencers including Clara Dyrhauge, Sylvie Mus, and Marina Torres wearing outfits with chic basics

(Image credit: @claradyrhauge; @sylviemus_; @marina_torres)

When a friend or loved one comes to me to ask for some advice on revamping their current wardrobe, I always point them in the direction of elevated basics. These easy pieces are always a surefire way to bring any outfit to the next level, so they are a great place to start. At the end of the day, I am all about transforming closets into a chicer version of themselves—especially if it can be done in a chic, straightforward way.

With a little bit of contemplation and a year-round approach at the top of my mind, I narrowed down five simple yet striking basics to shop at the moment and wear forever. These range from transformative blazers to effortless black shoes, classic jeans, and more. Ahead, I break down each basic with some visual outfit inspiration on how to wear each piece, plus a solid roundup of Nordstrom finds that fit the bill perfectly.

Elevated Blazers

stylist and influencer Sylvie Mus poses on a Paris sidewalk wearing a black tailored blazer, small metallic clutch bag, white flared pants, and black suede mule pumps

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

A standout blazer is guaranteed to make any outfit look and feel instantly more polished. Pair one with everything from your favorite dress to your go-to jeans.

Shop Elevated Blazers

Sleek Dresses

fashion editor Kristen Nichols poses on a NYC sidewalk wearing oversize black oval sunglasses, a black mini dress, and black slingback flats

(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

Dresses are a one-and-done way to get stylishly ready with ease. There is a style and length for any occasion and personal preference. Wear alone or with one of the blazers above.

Shop Sleek Dresses

Classic Jeans

influencer Anna Newton poses on a London sidewalk wearing a long black coat, white tee, straight-leg jeans, and loafers

(Image credit: @theannaedit)

A great pair of jeans instantly adds a cool factor. Straight-leg options are a reliable option that will always be in style, plus the length and wash combinations are endless.

Shop Classic Jeans

Effortless Black Shoes

style influencer Marina Torres poses in a butter yellow blazer, a brown patent shoulder bag, white linen pants, and black Mary Jane flats

(Image credit: @marina_torres)

Chic black shoes come in a variety of designs that can withstand the test of time. Below are an array that are incredibly comfortable without sacrificing style.

Shop Effortless Black Shoes

Easy White T-Shirts

Scandinavian creative Clara Dyrhauge poses in NYC wearing an olive green trench coat, white t-shirt, a black belt, dark-wash jeans, and black boots.

(Image credit: @claradyrhauge)

White T-shirts always come in handy no matter the season. They can easily be dressed up or down and feel right at home in even the most elegant of looks.

Shop Easy White T-Shirts

Jennifer Camp Forbes
Jennifer Camp Forbes
Senior Shopping Editor

Jennifer Camp Forbes is a senior shopping editor at Who What Wear, where she has worked in a variety of capacities including creative director and various editor roles. She’s a well-known shopping expert that’s sought out for advice and insight on the latest trends, outfit ideas, and fashion picks thanks to her thoughtful shopping roundups. Jennifer's lifelong interest in fashion led her to intern at Harper’s Bazaar as an undergraduate. Later, while working towards her masters degree in psychological counseling at Columbia University, she founded two digital fashion publications: Le Fashion and Olsens Anonymous. The popularity of both sites grew and after graduation she decided put her plans to become a therapist aside to pursue a career in fashion.

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