Is it just me, or are wardrobe basics getting a complete overhaul? While they have always maintained an important status in our closets and contributed to many chic outfits, I don’t remember them ever being this good. In fact, I really only go out of my way to restock these basics when my closet is in desperate need of fresh versions, and only begrudgingly at that. For me, buying these run-of-the-mill clothing items, as useful as they are, is like flossing—I know it’s in my best interest, but it rarely excites me to do it.
Suddenly, though, several new trendy basics have emerged, and they’re so good that they’re actually making me eager to do some shopping. Items such as nipped-in blazers, oversize drop earrings, and low-slung denim are beginning to win over fashion girls from Copenhagen to Miami, and inevitably, they’ve all but taken over my feed (and my shopping cart) while threatening to replace their now-outdated counterparts. I’m smitten with beautiful basics and know you will be too, which is why I’m highlighting eight of them here and breaking down the now-outdated versions they might be replacing.
Now, before you jump to any conclusions, don’t worry. I’m not insinuating the demise of standard blazers. Instead, I’m simply adding nipped-in and tailored shapes to the list of suiting trends that are quickly rising to the top of our shopping lists this year and IMO deserve the same staple status boxy blazers have earned.
Let’s talk about earring trends. Supersize hoops can step aside for the moment because these chunky drop earrings have arrived and are completely dominating in the fashion world. Popularized by Bottega Veneta’s Drop Earrings, the sculptural look gives off a nod to the ’80s, and as you can see from the below versions, is an unreasonably chic option.
In lieu of micro-minis, pencil skirts, and knee-length styles are jumping to the top of our minds right now. Backed by the recent runways from Miu Miu and Prada, the streamlined look is catching on and the fashion crowd is leaning towards these ready-for-work silhouettes over riskier micro-minis.
In case you were wondering, leather bomber jackets are probably the one item on this list that can be found in the closets of 99% of fashion people right now. The aviator shape lends a more updated feel to the classic leather jackets we all know and love.
Low-rise. Low-slung. Whatever you call them, they’re here, and they’re happening. And they couldn’t be any cooler. We suggest opting for a relaxed or wide-leg fit that is much easier to wear for anyone put off by the idea of low-rise jeans.
Shoulder bags have pretty much rendered all other bag shapes obsolete in recent years. Now with designer versions like the Khaite Olivia Hobo Bag and The Row Everyday Bag, slouchier shapes are officially eclipsing the micro-mini bags that reigned supreme in the past, and we couldn’t be any happier for the shift. Minis may be fun to carry, but we’re delighting in the practicality of these larger carryalls.
Leggings are one of those “boring” items that I always have on hand but never think much about. Well, this year, they’re getting a stylish upgrade in stirrup shapes that made me reconsider them as a workout-only item. Not only are they a cool way to get away with wearing leggings as pants, but they’re also pretty with low heels.
Skinny-heel shoes—whether they’re pumps or boots—are officially our favored styles. In fact, the slimmer and sharper they are, the better when it comes to this chic closet staple.
Next: Skirts Will Officially Peak in 2023: The 7 Major Trends to Know