Refresh Your Basics with These Wardrobe Must-Haves

From cozy long sleeves to versatile blazers, here are must-have basics to revamp your closet

Though pandemic wardrobes have been dominated by stretchy separates and cozy matching sets, the arrival of Fall and a wider return to in-person normalcy has us rethinking our haphazard style choices of the last year. With the rise of ’90s-inspired minimalism and capsule dressing — orchestrating a closet of a few key garments — basic pieces that can be mixed and matched are the key to a long lasting and sustainable wardrobe.

Though maximalism has thrived in select creatives spheres, there are certain style basics — knit tanks, basic t-shirts, oversized blazers – that are a necessity. When browsing for basics, silhouette, fiber content, and color way should be at the forefront of your considerations. Whether you are aiming to completely revamp your style or merely add a few fresh pieces, see below for 7 basic wardrobe must-haves.

Durable Long Sleeve Shirt

Always a go-to during the Fall and Winter months, a slim fit long sleeve will flawlessly incorporate into style choices year round. If you are looking for a classic silhouette, check out Cos’ wool long sleeve and if you want to incorporate a bit of pattern, AYR’s striped pieces are a suitable option.

$69, www.cosstores.com.

AYR

$75, www.ayr.com.

Versatile Denim

No matter the cut or wash, a pair of tried and true denim jeans are a constant style necessity. From Levi’s cult favorite 501 silhouette to a subtly oversized silhouette by FRAME, there are a bevy of toned down and timeless options to fulfill your wardrobe needs.

Levi’s

$89.50, www.levi.com.

Net a Porter

$250, www.net-a-porter.com.

Structured Blazer

Whether you choose to sport your blazer at the office or intend to pair it back with casual styling, structured styles reminiscent of the 1980s are back and better than ever. For pieces that will refresh your wardrobe, checkout sleek choices from Totême and Theory.

$190, www.theory.com.

$800, www.net-a-porter.com.

Go-To Tank Top

No matter the weather, a breathable tank top should permeate throughout any well rounded wardrobe. Whether you prefer a classic silhouette — Aritzia’s sculpt knit tanks mold comfortably to the body — or a more cutting-edge, yet timeless tank like Helmut Lang’s pieces, tanks are your go-to for easy styling and layering.

Aritzia

$68, www.aritzia.com.

Helmut Lang

$160, www.helmutlang.com.

The Basic T-Shirt

When looking for the perfect t-shirt, cut and fabric should be at the top of your mind. Loose fitted silhouettes, though not overly baggy, are prime options that withstand stand the test of time — especially in materials like pima and organic cotton. For all your basic tee needs, check out these sustainable and versatile options from Vince and Everlane.

$80, www.vince.com.

$24, www.everlane.com.

Subtle Statement Jacket

A sprawling trench coat or oversized jacket never goes out of style. To ensure that your outerwear will mesh with anything in your closet, focus on neutral colors — beige, cream, grey — that will work well with a bevy of hues. Here, options from Ted Baker and Max Mara are are ideal for layering during the colder months.

Ted Baker

$765, www.tedbaker.com.

$1195, www.us.maxmara.com.

Timeless Sweater

Though sweaters have historically paired with Holiday-time outfits, the garment can be an easy and valuable basic to add to your wardrobe. Below, turtle and crewneck options from Uniqlo will keep you stylish and cozy throughout the year. Crafted from the finest cashmere, the versatile sweaters are designed to prevent pilling and can be hand washed for simple garment care.

$89.90, www.uniqlo.com.

$89.90, www.uniqlo.com.

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