As much as I love to try my hand at one of the many trends we write about at Who What Wear, I'm an elevated-basics girl through and through. I live for straight-leg denim, crisp white T-shirts, and slouchy blazers that transform any outfit into something a bit more special. It's not boring—it's just classic. If you're looking to upgrade your wardrobe to a no-think chic capsule collection, you've come to the right place.
Although elevated basics rely heavily on their simple colors and timeless silhouettes for wearability, there's nothing wrong with pairing them with trend-forward pieces to make them feel a bit fresher. Now that fall is around the corner and I'm embracing the chillier weather, I'm itching to wear things that are beyond effortless. Thankfully, Nordstrom came in clutch, delivering tons of expensive-looking style inspiration I was able to add to my closet without having to pay designer-name prices.
Ahead are all of the Nordstrom elevated basics I'm eyeing to wear this season and beyond.
Mango
Relaxed Fit Button-Up Shirt
No words necessary—this item is one of the first things you should buy if you want to create a long-lasting capsule wardrobe.
1.State
Oversize Cotton Twill Barn Jacket
Barn jackets might be fall's biggest trend, but this insider-beloved style has been around for decades.
Marc Fisher
Ubet Ballet Flat
These luxe-looking suede ballet flats are just what you need for fall.
We the Free
Tinsley High Waist Baggy Jeans
Dark-wash jeans are a fall staple.
Reformation
Jadey Cashmere & Wool V-Neck Sweater
What can I say? I'll never deny myself the pleasure of owning a great Reformation sweater.
Fossil
Harlow Bracelet Watch
A luxe-looking accessory makes any outfit feel 10 times richer.
Madewell
The Oversize Shopper Tote in Soft Grain Suede
Suede is such a fall essential.
Noisy May
Casie Oversize Denim Jacket
A great denim trucker jacket goes with everything.
Caslon
Collar Organic Cotton Blend Cardigan
This cardigan is perfect for chilly fall days.
Madewell
Supima Cotton Rib T-Shirt
Everyone needs a classic white tee.
Jeffrey Campbell
Persona Slingback Pump
Slingbacks on sale? Sign me up.
Nordstrom
Button Front Cardigan
Cozy!
Reformation
Cello One-Shoulder Knit Top
Instead of a classic (yet somewhat boring) black top, opt for this elegant off-the-shoulder twist to keep your outfits interesting.
Halogen
Side Ruched Tank
For under $30, this shirt is practically a steal.
Astr the Label
Pleated Skort
This mini is absolutely stunning for any occasion when paired with an oversize knit.
Vince Camuto
Meliz Mule
Another on-sale shoe find I simply adore.
& Other Stories
Wool & Mohair Side Tie Bib Vest
The bow details on this find make it stand out from the pack.
Steve Madden
Gleeson Moto Boot
Quick, grab these while they're still under $100.
Treasure & Bond
Bias Cut Satin Midi Skirt
A black slip skirt is always a good idea.
Steve Madden
Sirus Crop Trench Coat
If you're a fan of a timeless cropped trench, look no further than this stylish option.
Staud
Linda Shoulder Bag
Can you tell I'm a big fan of suede bags?
Vince Camuto
Cropped Crewneck Sweater
Ideal with jeans and simple ballet flats for a "office to post-work happy hour" situation.
Treasure & Bond
One-Shoulder Rib Sweater
Another great knit you need to add to your cart ASAP.
BP
High Waist Wide Leg Twill Pants
Cute!
Mango
Buckles Faux Leather Shoulder Bag
Haven't you heard? Merlot is the color of the season.
Reformation
Raelynn Button Front Organic Cotton Knit Top
I'll buy anything Reformation makes.
Astr the Label
Collar Long Sleeve Shift Dress
This dress is so easy, especially when paired with great boots.
Mango
Mid Rise Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans
Dark denim is such a moment.
Open Edit
Relaxed Fit Blazer
If you don't own an oversize blazer yet, let this be your sign to snag this under-$100 one.
Jeffrey Campbell
Romp Flat
So rich.
Astr the Label
Crossover Off the Shoulder Rib Sweater
Chic!
Mango
Mid Rise Straight Leg Jeans
Mango's jeans are unmatched.
Savette
Tondo Suede Hobo Bag
All of our editors swear by Savette's cool-girl bags.
Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.