Back To Basics: The Best Wardrobe Basics For Women

Dare I say this is the most essential of all wardrobe essentials? I can’t live without denim and I know I’m not alone there. A great pair of jeans can be worn with everything. Dress them up or down, jeans are a go-to for everything from running errands to a night out. That versatility is what makes them so important. I think everyone should have a straight-leg silhouette in their roster. The fit is universally flattering and bodes well with all types of footwear. Levi’s 501s are a classic pick, and this light blue wash is perfect for the warmer months.

I could write an ode to the plain white t-shirt, but I’ll spare you and leave you with this: get one, or two or three. Styling this staple is easy as there are so many ways you  can wear it, and with so many iterations of the classic you can be sure you’ll find a fit you love. T-shirts, especially white ones, tend to go through quite a bit of wear and tear, especially if you wear them regularly. Because of this, t-shirts are a “save” not “splurge” item for me. Everlane’s t-shirts are affordable and great quality for the price; I love this one with a cropped, relaxed fit and super-soft fabric.

I spent months searching for the perfect black cardigan and kept landing on this one from Jenni Kayne, but the price tag was holding me back. On a whim I went into a Jenni Kayne store, tried the sweater on, and could not take it off– it's been a mainstay in my wardrobe ever since. This cardigan is perfect in every way; it’s soft, lightweight, oversized, and slouchy but not frumpy. It’s an effortlessly chic topper that I find myself reaching for whenever I need some added warmth or want to layer for dimension. With a range of gorgeous neutrals to choose from, no matter what color you land on this sweater will look good with just about everything you own.

Gone are the days when trousers were reserved for work. A relaxed trouser is the perfect swap when you need a break from jeans. This pair is tailored with a high waist, pleats, and a relaxed fit, giving them a more modern feel that still works just as well for presenting at your big team meeting as it does date night or dancing. With a selection of all the classic neutrals, as well as some brighter hues and muted patterns, these pants fit everyone’s version of a staple piece.

With a great pair of sunglasses on, you can truly take over the world. Maybe it’s the mystery, the allure of wondering what’s behind them, but don’t be surprised if you feel an instant confidence boost when you put on your favorite pair of sunglasses. Of course, they’re practical too– no one wants the sun in their eyes.

A leather jacket is worth the splurge. This one from Universal Standard  is an investment that will pay dividends in stylish, effortless outfits. The high-quality leather is soft, but durable, the hardware is chic and simple, and the boxy fit is just right. Not only is this one of the best leather jackets out there, but it comes in one of the widest size ranges I’ve seen, with options for 00-40.

Everyone needs a tank top that’s more than just an undershirt. The high crew neck on this one makes it look a bit more sophisticated than your average Hanes. I love to wear these tanks peeking out under a crewneck sweater, paired with fitted jeans and a blazer, or just thrown on with a pair of jean shorts for an easy summer outfit that looks put together with minimal effort. Summer’s here, and this super timely purchase will keep you feeling and looking cool on sweaty days.

A midi black dress is a more contemporary, elevated take on the classic little black dress – and I’m here for it. Dresses are ideal for lazy days when you want to look put together; they’re a whole outfit in one piece! This one from La Ligne has a romantic feel with its puffed sleeves and deep v-neck. I love that you can tough it up with a leather jacket and boots or go more flirty and feminine with sandals and dainty jewelry.

I could be wearing the most chic outfit in the world, but without earrings I feel naked. No matter what you’re wearing, gold hoops zhuzh up any look. I love a small pair that’s lightweight on your ears for everyday wear, like this pair from Kinn. The hinged closure in the back is comfortable and easy to use. If you’re going to wear a pair of earrings almost everyday, it’s worth it to splurge on a real solid gold pair so you don’t have to be too precious with them. These are 14K solid gold, so you don’t have to worry about peeling and tarnishing. But, if real gold isn’t in the cards for you right now there are plenty of places that sell great gold vermeil and gold-plated options.