I Don't Like Buying Items That Risk Going "Out"—These Basics Will Work Forever

I’m all for testing out new trends. I do work in fashion, after all. That said, I typically like to ensure a new piece has a strong cost per wear when I do invest in something. Basically, I prefer styles that have some longevity and won’t risk going "out” after the season. Although, in reality, your style preferences are personal and will never be "out” if you love them.
Currently, I’m especially into trend-forward basics. These pieces are highly versatile but have fashion design details that make them modern staples. Below, I’m showcasing the items in question that I think could work in a wardrobe forever. They can be mixed and matched with a range of other basics or trendy pieces to create well-balanced looks. Keep scrolling for visual and shopping inspiration.
1. Cardigan
A cardigan is a go-to for many for practical purposes (ahem, warmth) but also to bring more style to a look.
2. White Button-Down Shirt
You can't deny the power of a classic white button-down shirt to elevate a wardrobe. It's the more relaxed styles right now that are noteworthy.
3. Straight-Leg Jeans
There are many denim silhouettes that could be considered modern classics, and straight-leg jeans would definetly rank high as a favorite.
4. Ribbed Dress
A ribbed dress in a neutral hue can be styled with so many items to create a chic and fashion-forward vibe.
5. Blazer
A blazer is one of the key pieces that will add instant polish and sophistication to a wardrobe.
Next, check out more chic basics.

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
The Anti–Ballet Flats French and Italian Brands Are Currently Smitten With
Chic flats, sans ballet.
-
The Items Everyone With Good Taste Is Eyeing From Free People
Caution: may cause shopping spree.
-
I Don't Know About You, But I Think These 31 Zara Items Are Incredibly Tempting
Your summer wardrobe reset is here.
-
The Curvy Girl's Guide to Finding Pants That Fit Flawlessly
Waist gap, begone.
-
Only You and I Will Know These 29 Items Came From Zara
I won't tell if you don't.
-
I Finally Got Around to Creating My Annual Spring Shopbop Wish List—You're Welcome
Enjoy.
-
I Called the Cuffed-Jeans Trend—7 Shoes Fashion People Are Wearing With the Chic Denim Style
Style the jeans like a fashion person.
-
I'm Fashion People's Go-To Source for Style Inspo—Here's Everything I'm Shopping for Spring
Consider this your seasonal reset.