These 5 Basics Look Fantastic Paired With Everything From Jeans to Shorts

Basics could easily be considered the heroes of a solid wardrobe. It’s these simple pieces that act as the foundational elements to any outfit. They also help balance out some of those more trend-driven pieces. While there’s a strong chance you have a few favorite basics in your rotation, we thought we’d highlight some more options in case you are in fact interested in adding something fresh to your offering.

Specifically, we thought we’d zero in on summer silhouettes that are versatile in that they could be styled with everything from jeans to shorts (and clearly a range of other pieces). Here, we’re talking about items like chic tanks that could be worn on their own or as layering pieces. There are also pieces like lightweight blazers if you’re looking to bring polish to one of your ensembles.

With all that in mind, keep scrolling to check out five elevated basics that just might take your wardrobe to the next level.

Lightweight Blazers

versatile-summer-basics-293143-1620683500817-image

(Image credit: @kingharriet52)

A slouchier, lightweight blazer will elevate any ensemble and actually works quite nicely with shorts, jeans, or anything else for that matter. 

Tank Tops

versatile-summer-basics-293143-1620683499662-image

(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

You just can't deny the power of a classic tank—especially in a ribbed silhouette—for a casual and always-chic vibe.

Oversize Shirts

versatile-summer-basics-293143-1620683498845-image

(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

It's all about the oversize shirt this season, to be worn on its own or as a layering item like in this ensemble here. So versatile.

Polos

versatile-summer-basics-293143-1620683500063-image

(Image credit: @greceghanem)

Knit and retro-inspired polo shirts have been trending for the last few seasons and look quite cute with denim shorts or another pair of jeans.

Shackets

versatile-summer-basics-293143-1620683501147-image

(Image credit: @trustmebuythis)

If you're looking for another layering option for those chillier nights, consider a lighter shacket for a trendy vibe.

Next, check out more useful basics.

Bobby Schuessler
Market Director

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven 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 retialers 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. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.