I am a fashion editor, and I consider my style to err on the classic side, so naturally, I am always looking for the best basics to integrate into my everyday wardrobe. I am talking about those classic items that you can wear to death, week after week, and will live with you for a lifetime. They solve any daily “what to wear” dressing dilemmas, always look good, and can be styled with virtually anything. I could write a novel on the best classic items that every closet needs, but to start, I am sharing a list of my five nonnegotiables.
This list includes everything from the iconic khaki trench coat—which can be worn during nearly every season, depending on what climate you live in—to a few pieces that might have seen some trending action over the past few seasons but are definite essentials, in my opinion. For one, an oversize button-down in soft cotton looks just as smart for a day at the office as it does on the beach over a bikini. Keep reading below to find my top five basics that are true classics and that I know you will keep turning to over and over again. Trust me.
Trench Coats
& Other Stories
Buckle-Belt Trench Coat
There is an easy elegance to this one, which features storm flaps and epaulets at the shoulder.
ASOS Curve
Soft Midi Trench Coat
Take your pick from stone or black. Either way, it is an incredibly chic, everyday choice.
Zara
Extra Long Gabardine Trench
For those tall readers out there (or those who love a little extra hem length), this one is for you.
J.Crew
Relaxed Heritage Trench Coat
Machine-washable and extremely versatile, J.Crew’s trench is made from Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) cotton.
Wide-Leg Trousers
Mango
Wide Leg Suit Pants
Simple suit pants can be worn to the office or out on the town with a going-out top.
Favorite Daughter
The Favorite Pant Pleated Wide Leg Pants
You’ll be sure to live in this fresh khaki pair all spring and summer.
Alex Mill
Madeline Pleated Twill Wide Leg Trousers
A little more relaxed on the hip, Alex Mill’s pleat-front trousers are everything we want to wear this season.
Zara
ZW Collection Pleated Drawcord Pants
The comfiest trousers you will find thanks to a drawstring closure that makes them extremely stretchy.
Madewell
The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant
Try The Harlow in 100% linen fabrication for the warmer months ahead.
Oversize Button-Downs
Treasure & Bond
Oversize Cotton Button-Up Shirt
Bright-white poplin is always a must-have in any wardrobe.
The Frankie Shop
Lui Organic Cotton-Poplin Shirt
The Lui shirt consistently sells out, for good reason. Scoop up yours in white, blue, black, or even a bold orange.
Favorite Daughter
The Ex-Boyfriend Stripe Cotton Shirt
A striped cotton button-down like this works in every scenario imaginable.
Denim Midi Skirts
Madewell
The Rilee Denim Midi Skirt
Style with a chambray shirt in a similar wash for a stylish approach.
Vero Moda Curve
Lucky Denim Midi Skirt
Break up the blues with an ecru wash that is great for spring.
SLVRLAKE
+ Net Sustain Organic Denim Midi Skirt
This one is made from organic denim, so you can feel good about investing in it.
Rolla’s
Sailor Skirt Lyocell Blue
This one has buttons down the front, so you can play with showing a little or a lot of leg.
Structured Blazers
The Frankie Shop
Bea Crepe Blazer
A little more fluid, The Frankie Shop’s crêpe blazer offers that perfectly oversize look.
Noisy May Curve
Tailored Blazer
You can’t go wrong with the best basics, and this blazer is just that.
French Connection
Whisper Single Breasted Blazer
If you prefer a single-breasted silhouette, try this slightly structured one from French Connection.