Like most people, I have a love-hate relationship with my closet. All those years of buying sequin-covered blazers and flower-printed palazzo pants have caught up to me. When looking at my wardrobe, I feel like I have nothing to wear. Naturally, that’s a bald-faced lie—my closet is practically a black hole, overflowing with an endless array of options. But when I open my dresser every morning and try to pick out something to wear, I’m finding myself struggling more than usual. More likely than not, it’s because I’m missing timeless basics to round out my outfits.
Much has been said about how to implement a capsule wardrobe (a series of versatile, key basics that are meant to combine with nearly every piece of clothing you own) and how it’s the demise of individuality: it’s too basic, too neutral, and too boring. Let’s be real, though, nothing is quite as easy as throwing a white T-shirt over jeans. Elevated blouses, immaculately tailored pants, and elegant jackets are the foundation of a chic wardrobe. While switching out my key clothing pieces for what I’m dubbing "fashion people fall,” I spent the entire afternoon on Shopbop hunting for the best basic pieces to add to my cart and my wish list to reference later.
Thankfully, the retailer is just as much of a fan of wardrobe essentials as I am. Here’s your guide to more than 30 of the best elevated (and affordable!) basics I’m eyeing at the moment.
Who doesn’t love a timeless black blazer?
Denim never goes out of style.
Chocolate knits are a must-have for your capsule wardrobe to come.
An everyday long-sleeve for the colder months.
Call this the Matilda Djerf effect, but slacks go with everything.
Cold shoulders are here to stay.
Perfect for a vacation-ready moment.
This black top is a classic stand-alone piece and an option to layer with.
This size-inclusive pick is an instant crowd-pleaser.
An everyday black V-neck.
This patterned blazer may be basic, but it’s not boring.
Wear this belted jean jacket over a classic white tee for an effortless look.
It’s shacket season, and you can’t miss this cream classic.
All you need is a black midi dress.
This teddy dress may be the coziest basic I've ever found.
This denim utility suit is quick, easy, and fun.
Emma Chamberlain is obsessed with knit vests, so naturally, I am too. are on the top of my shopping wish list.
The color combination on this jacket is divine.
Good American makes the best size-inclusive jeans, period.
Ganni always makes the chicest basics.
A (literal) twist on a classic white button-down.
Stripes are one of the most versatile prints to have in your wardrobe.
Quilted jackets are by far my favorite fall trend, and this chic, army-green Rails one is perfect for transitional weather weeks.
This elevated basic is French girl–approved.
A timeless, no-frills pick.
Levis are always a good idea.
Relaxed shirting is everywhere right now.
Everyone deserves a classic cashmere sweater in their closet.
The cut on these jeans is perfect for an extra retro flair.
I’m always a proponent of a big, fluffy puffer jacket.
The subtle houndstooth pattern makes this coat perfect to spice things up.
These Free People pants can be worn with the chunkiest of sweaters or with a simple, black tank.
Jean midi skirts are back and better than ever.
The perfect white sweater to end all sweaters.
Versatile for the colder months.
Next, shop even more Shopbop basics.
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