I'll admit it—I haven't always been the best at prioritizing basics when shopping. I'd often reach for trendier pieces because they would quickly capture my attention, but I'd end up struggling to put outfits together in the morning. It wasn't until I started working at Who What Wear and learning from my fellow editors that I realized that I have to opt for the staple piece instead of the trendy item that may be an Instagram hit in order to create a long-lasting wardrobe. That's not to say I won't be buying a funky item here and there, but I also need to work on keeping my basics up to snuff.
Whether it's a pair of relaxed trousers from Totême or a sleek blazer from H&M, there are a plethora of trusty basics waiting for you no matter your budget. Below, I've relayed 31 staple items that I think are worth the investment and 29 basics that are very budget friendly. Keep on scrolling to take a look and, hopefully, shop.
Splurge
Over-$150 items I think are worth the price tag:
Staud's handbags are always worth the investment.
The Frankie Shop
Quilted Padded Ripstop Jacket
The perfect jacket for transitional weather.
Agolde
Criss Cross Straight Legged Jeans
The fashion set's favorite pair of jeans.
La Ligne
Cable-Knit Cashmere Sweater
A sweater you'll turn to season after season.
Everyone needs simple black heels in their wardrobe.
The Frankie Shop
Bea Oversized Suiting Blazer
The blazer to end all blazers.
Maria Luca
Ballerina Augusta Flats
Ballet flats may be trending, but this pair is a staple.
Wandler
Teresa Leather Shoulder Bag
The Frankie Shop
Lui Organic Cotton-Poplin Shirt
Pleats Please Issey Miyake
December Pleated Long Sleeve Midi Dress
Reformation
Florence Skirt
Your new favorite spring skirt.
Alex Mill
Work Sweater Jacket
Ulla Johnson
Mirelle Blouse
Wear it with jeans, a skirt, or relaxed trousers—this decadent top does it all.
Re/Done
High-Rise Loose Jeans
The elevated way to do distressed denim.
Nanushka
Taya Lace-Trimmed Pleated Vegan Leather Shirt
Wait till you feel it. Nanushka's vegan leather is known for being unbelievably soft.
Totême
Wool-Twill Wide-Leg Pants
The kind of pants you'd want to wear every day if you could.
Rosie Assoulin
Bustier Lamp Top
Loren Stewart
Mini Pirate 14-Karat Gold Hoop Earrings
My mom always taught me that gold is worth the investment.
ACNE Studios
Dramatic Moh Sweater
This looks extremely cozy.
Agolde
Recycled Leather: Mid Rise Relaxed Boot Jeans
No such thing as too much leather.
Wolford
Stretch Modal-Blend Turtleneck Thong Bodysuit
Remain Birger Christensen
Alzira Rib Long Sleeve Sweater Dress
Hurry, there are only a few left in stock.
Khaite
Dallas Short Western Bootie
I think about these boots on a daily basis.
Tibi
Oversized Leather Bomber Jacket
I saw this at the Tibi showroom recently, and trust me when I say it looks even better in person.
Nanushka
Flora Long Sleeve Jogger Dress
Pair this with your favorite tall boots and you're ready to go.
Frame
High Rise Relaxed Trousers
Some cargo pants look a little too trendy, but this pair is just perfect.
Ganni
Creepers Chelsea Boots
These tough boots were made for stomping around in.
Brinker & Eliza
All in Necklace
BY FAR
Tanya Strappy Square Toe Sandal
Simple in the best way possible.
Save
Great basics under $100:
Dresses like these are the perfect way to stay comfy but also look put-together.
Mango
Baguette Faux Leather Bag
A basic black bag you'll reach for often.
Zara
Lace-Up Fabric Heeled Shoes
I think I found my new favorite heels.
A basic tank is always necessary, whether you choose to bare it all or have it as a layering piece.
Trust me—this will sell out fast. You've been warned.
Open Edit
Gemma Slide Sandal
You have to admit that these look designer.
Topshop
Oversized Poplin Button-Up Shirt
When it comes to styling a white button-down, the options are endless.
Yep, I ordered this today. I couldn't resist.
Zara
Marine Straight Jeans
I'm surprised I don't see this denim wash more often, as it's the perfect neutral.
Levi's
Faux Leather Dad Bomber Jacket
Bomber jackets have made a comeback, but it's hard to find chic options that aren't crazy expensive. Lo and behold, I've found your match.
BB Dakota by Steve Madden
Suit It and Boot It Vest
Menswear-inspired suiting is trending even more for 2022.
H&M
Oversized Cotton Shirt
That price makes me swoon.
I've found my new WFH sweater.
Franco Sarto
Balin Platform Loafer
A sleek pair of loafers will never let you down.
Mango
Leather-Effect Straight Trousers
Leather pants instantly make any outfit look cool.
Urban Outfitters
Edy Satin Midi Skirt
I rely on my satin midi skirt at least once a week.
BB Dakota by Steve Madden
Top Floor Bodysuit
I can't get enough of the quilted-jacket trend.
These pants constantly sell out for a reason—they're just so versatile.
New Balance
996 Classic Sneakers
Finally, a pair of sleek New Balances that aren't sold out.
Yep, this blazer is perfect.
Vince Camuto
Elanndo Square Toe Ballet Flat
The square toe takes the classic shoe style to a whole new level.
Madewell
Medium Chunky Hoop Earrings
If you don't want to spend hundreds on jewelry, this pair of hoops is a great option.
A sweater you can always rely on.
Everyone's favorite jeans.
Open Edit
Split Hem Sweater Pants
Ribbed knits are a must-have.