These 35 Cheap Basics Are the Key to a Perfect Quiet-Luxury Summer Wardrobe

Unless you’re completely free of social media, you’re very aware of the quiet-luxury phenomenon that’s happening right now. The momentum of the aesthetic coupled with the viral success of Sofia Richie’s recent wedding looks can only mean that summer 2023 is bound to be filled with even more of this look than we can even imagine. There is definitely an art to tapping into this look, and I am here to tell you that it’s really not actually that complicated. All you need is a strong array of basics

That’s right, folks—basics are the key to a seamless quiet-luxury wardrobe, and I found the best cheap basics for summer, all under $50. This way, you can be looking rich without actually throwing away your life’s savings. With tops starting at just $6 and chic sandals for under $20, I can assure you you’re about to walk away from this story with a basket full of the best affordable basics on the market, period. Prepare yourself for a summer of secret luxury. I won’t tell if you won’t. 

I immediately bought this in two colors.

Perfect for wearing with jeans or over a swimsuit for a windy beach day.

The sandals every fashion person is after. 

Black trousers are the backbone of every strong wardrobe. 

If you’re anything like me, it’s time to replace your white tanks. 

Old Navy is really impressing me here. 

Somehow, linen pants have become the It item among the quiet-luxury girlies.  

This is the kind of top people won’t stop asking about. 

The hardware makes this belt look so expensive. 

I mean, how can you beat $7? 

I love how these pants looked all dressed up, but you can just as easily style them with a tank top and Birkenstocks. 

The key to looking rich is one piece of bold statement jewelry like an interesting cuff. 

Linen always feels like summer. 

I love a pack! 

The ultimate summer sandals. 

These jeans look so nice.

I would buy the tan color as well.

Thanks to Richie, I can now confirm that claw-clip hairstyles are here to stay. 

Since this skirt is jersey, you can guarantee it will be comfortable.  

Honestly, this entire look is a vibe. I love a white-on-white moment. 

Big stud earrings are very right now, but I promise they are not just a fleeting trend. 

Blazers are still crucial in the summer months. 

The kind of shoes you’ll want to wear with everything. 

White jeans should be on heavy rotation in your wardrobe this summer, and this pair is perfectly timeless. 

The more linen the merrier. 

If you know, you know.

I’m not a big fan of shorts, but these are convincing me otherwise. 

Simple and chic. 

Just wait until you see the back. 

The flip-flops every fashion person has in their closet. 

Simple layering tanks are a must in the warmer months. I love the idea of this one paired with breezy white linen trousers. 

I really can’t believe this is $29. 

Basic white tees are always worth it. 

This is so elegant. 

Perfection. 

Next: 29 New Nordstrom Finds That Will Sell Out Before Summer Even Arrives