As part of my spring cleaning, I did a major closet cleanout, removing clothes I no longer wear to free up space for all the fabulous new clothes waiting for me in the future. During my cleanout, however, I noticed a lack of great basics in my closet. I know the backbone of a stellar wardrobe is versatile basics you can wear on repeat, and now that I’ve tossed out my old distressed jeans and tube tops from college, I have space to start building the basics collection my wardrobe so desperately needs.
In the search for great basics, my initial reaction was to check Reformation, Shopbop, and Mango. These retailers don’t mess around when it comes to basics, and as a member of Gen Z and an editor based in New York, I’m not looking for your average, run-of-the-mill basics. I found 30 basics so perfect I almost don’t want to share them.
Of course, I’d never gatekeep when it comes to fashion, so scroll on to see which 30 basics I can’t wait to wear.
If I had a weekday uniform, it would be a bodysuit and jeans.
Meet the cropped knit tee of your dreams.
Not your average flip-flops.
A good pair of trousers are a must-have. There are so many ways to style them, and they always look chic. They’re the backbone of my work wardrobe.
This tank has a very ’90s feel to it.
A black dress with an open back is simple but sexy.
Wedges returned in the summer of 2022, and their comeback continues in 2023. These ones have my attention.
What I love about this top is that it’s comfortable and super stylish at the same time. Oh, and you can style it with basically anything.
This skirt comes in black, and I absolutely need it.
This has been described as “the perfect tank top.” I need to test-drive it myself.
This dress looks way more expensive than it is.
Simple strappy sandals with square toes? Sign me up.
A poplin shirt is essential.
Maxi skirts are having a moment right now. I see myself wearing this with a belt and a white tee or tank.
I just got a denim miniskirt, and I’m so excited.
I’m so excited for summer because it means it’s time to break out the white linen minidresses.
A good pair of flowy pants are always good to have around. I love this off-white color too. It’s perfect for summer.
Move over, skinny jeans.
These are at the top of my summer footwear wish list.
These are the best trousers on the market for $40, trust me.
Easy and breezy. Plus, it also comes in black.
A good pair of mules is nonnegotiable for me. I could see myself wearing these to work, on the weekend, on vacation, to brunch—you name it, I’m probably wearing these.
Trench coat season has arrived.
I’ll take 20.
A great date-night dress.
I’ll be wearing this not only as a shirt but as a swim cover-up.
This skirt is so pretty.
I basically live in dresses in the summer, and this classic one from Staud is easy and pretty. I’m in love.
I have these in the shade Colorado, and I wear them all the time. They’re so comfortable and look so good on.
I’m all about a good loafer. Gigi Hadid loves these too.
