Like most people, I have a love-hate relationship with my closet. All those years of buying sequin-covered blazers and flower-printed palazzo pants have caught up to me. When looking at my wardrobe, I feel like I have nothing to wear. Naturally, that’s a bald-faced lie—my closet is practically a black hole, overflowing with an endless array of options. But when I open my dresser every morning and try to pick out something to wear, I’m finding myself struggling more than usual. More likely than not, it’s because I’m missing timeless basics to round out my outfits.
Much has been said about how to implement a capsule wardrobe (a series of versatile, key basics that are meant to combine with nearly every piece of clothing you own) and how it’s the demise of individuality: it’s too basic, too neutral, and too boring. Let’s be real, though, nothing is quite as easy as throwing a white T-shirt over jeans. Elevated blouses, immaculately tailored pants, and elegant jackets are the foundation of a chic wardrobe. While switching out my key clothing pieces for what I’m dubbing “fashion people fall,” I spent the entire afternoon on Shopbop hunting for the best basic pieces to add to my cart and my wish list to reference later.
Thankfully, the retailer is just as much of a fan of wardrobe essentials as I am. Here’s your guide to more than 30 of the best elevated (and affordable!) basics I’m eyeing at the moment.
Who doesn’t love a timeless black blazer?
Denim never goes out of style.
Chocolate knits are a must-have for your capsule wardrobe to come.
An everyday long-sleeve for the colder months.
Call this the Matilda Djerf effect, but slacks go with everything.
Cold shoulders are here to stay.
Perfect for a vacation-ready moment.
This black top is a classic stand-alone piece and an option to layer with.
This size-inclusive pick is an instant crowd-pleaser.
An everyday black V-neck.
This patterned blazer may be basic, but it’s not boring.
Wear this belted jean jacket over a classic white tee for an effortless look.
It’s shacket season, and you can’t miss this cream classic.
