I Always Buy Classic Pieces—Here Are 25 Wardrobe Builders I’m Shopping For RN

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one Who What Wear team member or friend of the brand shares the top 25 finds on their current wish list.

In case you’re new here and we haven’t met, let me introduce myself: My name is Nayiri. I’m a sucker for classic wardrobe builders. Throw a bodysuit and a pair of slim-straight jeans at me, and I can put together approximately three full outfits and tell you where to wear them. What can I say? I’m a natural.

But I wasn’t always this way. I’ve gone through my fair share of experimenting with trends simply because they were trends, only to discover that I actually just wasted all of my money because they weren’t pieces I personally loved. Over time, I’ve narrowed down the pieces I shop for into two categories: classic wardrobe builders and fun investment pieces I will wear forever. Right now, I’m looking for the former, and I’m turning to my go-to destination, Express, to find them. Between the luxe-feeling staples from the brand’s Body Contour category to its selection of comfortable high-waisted jeans, I legit have zero reasons to shop anywhere else for these classics. See all of my picks below.  

Note the color: This chartreuse tone isn’t going anywhere, so you can wear it now with a miniskirt or this fall layered under your coat of choice.

This yummy chocolate brown is super elevated in my book, and I know I’ll wear this top from brunch to drinks.

A classic bodysuit you absolutely need in your wardrobe if you don’t have one by now.

Halters: so Y2K of us.

Another classic that deserves a space in your wardrobe, especially in this powder-pink color. 

Not your regular tee. This one is a high-compression crew-neck that acts as shapewear, too.

The baggier, the better.

Don’t let anyone tell you how to live your life. Buy the distressed skinnies.

I love the raw hem on these wide-leg jeans.

I’m reserving this pair to style with the chocolate-brown one-shoulder top above. 

Who doesn’t love a cropped flare? 

The 4-Way stretch technology on these jeans makes them the comfiest high waist you will ever wear.

A slip dress is the ultimate classic to have in your wardrobe, especially in a fun color.

We’re big fans of a tiered puff-sleeve dress here at Who What Wear. You can’t go wrong with this style.

Off-the-shoulder is a major trend right now, but what keeps this top a classic is the neutral tone.

Bonus points if you get this matching skirt into your wardrobe rotation. 

A pretty top to style with unexpected bottoms, like a pair of Bermuda shorts.

A transitional color if I’ve ever seen one. 

If you have any events on your calendar, this skirt will do the trick.

I will never let go of my love for sweats. Don’t @ me. 

There are leggings, and then there are compression leggings that really hold everything together.

A fashion-editor staple: band heeled sandals. 

I never thought I’d wear a clip out again, but here we are.

For those who aren’t ready to try Y2K inspired mirror sunglasses, these classic shades are for you.

Anklets are no longer a trend; they’re a must-have in every wardrobe.