Basics are the anchors in many of our wardrobes (mine included). After all, it's those simple items that act as the building blocks to balance out some of those trendier pieces. Sure, you may have a range of go-to styles already, but if you're on the hunt for some fresh summer basics, I'm here to showcase a smattering of the best styles. And by best, I mean those top-reviewed basics at some of our favorite stores—Nordstrom and Shopbop.
So if you're shopping at the moment, keep scrolling to uncover summer basics (separated by category) that have four stars and above. I also included an actual customer review for each basic as well.
Tanks
"Simple and easy tank top. I throw it on and go. Love it." — Kiki NYC
"This top is super flattering, goes with everything! The little edge levels it up, and can be dressed any way! I already bought it in another color!" — acarri
"Needed a basic white tank to wear every day that wasn't revealing. Love the crew neck, the shoulders are broad enough to wear a regular bra comfortably and not have the straps show. The white fabric is slightly sheer so a skin-colored bra is needed to be worn. Other than that—great fabric and worth the price!" — cocoloco2
"Tank top is very comfortable and fits well. Beautiful color." — SilverandScarlette
Tops
"I LOVE this top! So cute paired with high-waisted jeans. I bought it in green and black. True to size and good quality as well!" — Emy_
"I love this shirt and it has served me well, but some work has gone into the relationship. First, if you prefer a crisp clean look, be prepared to use your iron. If not, you can easily have a beachy-chic, rumpled look right out of wash. It IS a heavier weight than you'd think looking at it. Like a lightweight canvas tote bag? Nevertheless, I'm happy with my purchase. I like to iron mine, cuff the sleeves two times, then tie it high around my waist and wear it with high-waist pants in an attempt to achieve a look similar to Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday." — Green_Gates
"Like the thickness/quality yet freshness of material for warm weather, 2X was true to size, maybe slightly big." — Miami524
Jeans and Shorts
"I rate these highly—they are versatile and can be a classic forever from the cut and color. Your circulation doesn't get cut off in this stiff fabric. It has give and effortlessly works if you style it right." — thepaperdoll
"The fit, the length, the color, the waist detail… I just love everything about these shorts. I wished I ordered every color available." — Skie
"Great pair of jeans, not see-through at all (a rarity when it comes to white). Would definitely size down 1–2 sizes if looking for a tight fit, but other than that—love them!" — Riya
"I am so happy I bought these! I was going to by a pair more than twice the price but decided on these to see if I even like the long short look on me. Totally obsessed. The fit is perfect and I love how they are not tight around the knee. I am a 27 and bought the 27." — Anita239
"These white jeans are awesome! They fit great and are not sheer. Love the button fly! Great length for spring/summer. I would definitely repurchase in a different color—love Madewell denim." — mscmitchell
Tees
"I love this tee! Perfect boxy fit. Not super see-through but have not tried it on with a black bra yet for the ultimate test. The sleeve length is great. Can tuck in the front for a cute look." — DallasDenae
"Love the crop length, great cut and think fabric. Perfect white shirt. Looks great with a jacket or by itself." — nathmia
"This is the best fitting T-shirt I have ever owned. Fabric is lightweight really comfortable." — Skye D
"Love this tee! So comfortable & flattering!" — kcmae5
Simple Slides
"I'm usually a size 8 and I went with the 7/8. They're the perfect shoe to throw on with any look." — Jess
"Love these sandals. I got the 7.5 wide since I have wide feet and it fits perfectly. Pretty comfortable and goes with every outfit." — MSNshopper
"Love the oversized silver buckles on these. I have the light rose color and it is neutral and goes with everything." — BeppieNJ
"Super comfy and the perfect summer sandal to throw on every day. These will certainly be worn with all my casual looks! Fits true to size." — Ings87
Easy Dresses
"The best fabric, fit, and length, perfect for work with a jacket or for weekends with trainers." — dxbnyc
"Love this dress! So flattering and versatile! I want all the colors!" — jaimeh77
"I love the dress, the length is perfect can be dress up or down! Very nice color, the fabric is not cheap, just very flattering in general!" — alma_lee
"Lovely dress with quality material and well made. The cut and fit is perfect for work and evenings. Nordstrom's buyers do it right. Also the customer service is stellar. Thank you." — DebbieKennard1020
Next, check out the exact closet staples worth buying from H&M, Nordstrom, and Madewell.
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It's Officially a Butter-Yellow Summer—27 of the Chicest Finds at Zara, Nordstrom, and J.CrewFashion people love this color trend.
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Listen Up: 36 Deeply Discounted Summer Items at Nordstrom That'll Sell Out By the End of the MonthYour stunning summer wardrobe for less.
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The Classic Hero Piece That Fashion People Reach For All Summer LongSomething for every personal style.
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I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for SummerShop the highly curated list.
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These 31 Rich-Looking Nordstrom Finds Are Giving "I Summer in the Hamptons"Minus the trust fund.
