Here’s the thing: Basics are a worthy investment, in my opinion. They’re the items you reach for day in and day out, so the cost per wear is destined to be low. But the other thing is that incredible affordable basics brands abound, so I choose to shop for the bulk of my wardrobe staples from those wallet-friendly brands so that I can really stock up.
The other thing that’s worth mentioning is, although I love adding new brands to my closet, these particular brands aren’t new. I’ve been wearing most of them for years, so I can truly vouch for each one. Below you’ll find some of my current favorite jeans, tees, tanks, sweaters, dresses, and more, and they’re all under $200. So if you want to make getting dressed easier this fall (and year-round), I highly recommend scrolling through this carefully selected roundup.
Agolde is one of team Who What Wear’s go-to denim brands, but there’s more where that came from. The brand has excellent tees, sweats, and even jackets. I wouldn’t be surprised if it continues to add to its non-denim roster.
Every time I scroll through Aritzia’s site, I add a good five to 10 items to my cart. The basics are so elevated, and they look so much more expensive than what they’re sold for. Plus, the quality is great.
We all know and love Reformation for its pretty dresses and tops, but I love it equally for its selection of affordable basics. There are bodysuits, knit dresses, and excellent denim, all with Reformation’s signature cool-girl spin.
It wouldn’t be a roundup of affordable basics brands without Everlane now would it? This might be an obvious choice, but that’s not stopping me from continuing to buy its affordable cashmere, flattering trousers, and comfortable footwear. Not only that, but it also has inclusive sizing.
For soft, comfortable clothes that are still quite polished, I can’t recommend Lou & Grey more. Its sweaters are always a home run, and the loungewear is actually chic. I’d even sleep in it.
& Other Stories is truly fast fashion at its finest. You’ll find plenty of trend-driven pieces but also a regularly updated assortment of elevated basics that you’ll actually look forward to wearing.
Mott & Bow started as a denim brand, but it’s added an edited assortment of tees, sweaters, and blouses to wear with its classic denim styles. Now you know.
I’ve been shopping for basics at Madewell for over a decade. The fit just gets better and better, and the design team incorporates trends in its collections without going over the top so that it sticks to the brand’s classic aesthetic.
Another Team Who What Wear favorite, Cotton Citizen makes some of the coolest tees and sweatshirts in the game. Plus, don’t sleep on its denim and bike shorts.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Next, I found all the trendy basics that will level up with your summer wardrobe.