Years ago, when I first began working in fashion, I received some unsolicited, albeit excellent, advice from a more senior editor: Invest in your wardrobe. While my closet is nothing close to a designer display room, I have taken this tip to heart and have always prioritized shopping for quality over quantity. For me, this means allocating more of my budget to basics that I wear regularly rather than the latest trends that might not be a long-term fit.
My style skews toward the classic and occasionally preppy variety, so I prioritize collared shirts, denim, blazers, outerwear, and simple accessories. While there are a few pieces I’ll never part with (leather jackets only get better with age), basics tend to wear out when worn and washed on repeat.
Thanks to another gentle nudge from a fellow editor, I’ve embarked on a mission to revamp my basics and invest in new quality wardrobe pieces from five specific retailers. Even though I live in NYC, I don’t love shopping there IRL (it can get overwhelming!), so I’ve included some online-only favorites in the mix.
Keep scrolling to browse my favorite elevated basics from Aritzia, COS, The Frankie Shop, Toteme, and Source Unknown, and join me as I swap out my frumpy old basics for more polished replacements.
Aritzia
If I need an outfit for a special event that isn’t super formal, like a big work presentation or meeting my boyfriend’s parents, Aritzia is at the top of my list. The 40-year-old Canadian retailer boasts a portfolio of in-house brands, ranging from athleticwear to business-friendly attire, basics, and denim. While it’s a bit pricier than its similarly trend-forward fast-fashion counterparts, the quality speaks for itself.
If you’re ready to upgrade your basics, then prepare to fill up your cart with Aritzia’s top-quality staples.
Babaton
Sculpt Knit Bustier Waist Tank
If you want to dip your toe into a new style or silhouette, you can find plenty of options at Aritzia without feeling like you’re shopping in the juniors department.
The Effortless Pant
The Effortless Pant Wider
The Effortless Pant is trademarked for a reason. Try on a pair and you’ll become a believer too.
This dress has ’90s supermodel energy.
Outerwear is one of my favorite categories to shop for at Aritzia, from polar-vortex-proof puffers to timeless trenches.
Denim Forum
The 90s Marlo Hi-Rise Baggy Jean
When it comes to jeans, brand loyalty is a real thing. If you’re still looking for the perfect fit, don’t sleep on Aritzia’s denim collection.
COS
COS is an acronym for “collection of style,” and if you’ve stepped inside the British retailer any time over the last decade, you’ll know it is an accurate description of what you’ll find. Streamlined seasonal color palettes and sophisticated, typically geometric cuts give each piece a distinctly European flair. Whether you pick up a simple sweater or a slinky dress, you can bet someone will want to steal this style secret.
COS
Pleated Racer-Neck Maxi Dress
Walk into COS any time of year and you’re guaranteed to find a dress for whatever event is on your calendar. From casual workwear staples to elegant evening-appropriate attire, there’s always a chic ensemble in store.
It’s hard to execute elegant jewelry at an affordable price, but COS does this in spades. Don’t sleep on the accessory section; it’s an easy way to elevate any outfit.
COS
Wristlet Pouch in Raffia
COS’s entire array of accessories is on par with much pricier brands, so don’t be shy about getting the perfect hat or handbag to match.
COS
Oversized Long-Sleeve Shirt
Long-sleeve button-downs are a personal favorite, so I’m constantly in pursuit of the perfect fit at a palatable price. COS shirts certainly fit the bill.
COS
Gathered-Sleeve Jumper
I have also amassed a collection of simple crewneck sweaters. Most tend to get worn out after a season or two, but if you follow the care directions, COS’s sweaters are well worth the cost per wear.
COS
Short Twill Trench Coat
Outerwear won’t make or break and outfit, but the right coat will absolutely add an extra level of polish. This spring, I’m replacing my worn-out jean jacket with more fun and functional outerwear.
The Frankie Shop
If you would describe your ideal style as French woman in NYC, then you’re probably already a fan of The Frankie Shop. Founded by a French transplant in Manhattan’s Lower East Side in 2015, the brand’s oversize suiting staples have an androgynous look that evokes a certain je ne sais quoi.
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Bea Crepe Blazer
If you upgrade just one piece in your wardrobe, make it a blazer from The Frankie Shop. The Bea style comes in a number of versatile colors that work with everything from the matching trousers to skirts and jeans.
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Bea Pleated Crepe Straight-Leg Pants
If you’re in the market for new suiting separates that are more fashion-forward than the basic business-casual look, you’ll want to get a blazer and the matching trousers.
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Maesa Asymmetric Woven Vest
Traditional pieces with modern fits and unexpected details like the asymmetrical closure of this vest is what helps to make The Frankie Shop stand out.
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Ripley Pleated Woven Wide-Leg Pants
Even if blazers aren’t in your repertoire, trousers are having a major moment. Who knew they could be even more comfortable and versatile than jeans? The Frankie Shop, that’s who.
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Lui Organic Cotton-Poplin Shirt
If suiting separates are your specialty, the brand also makes a great basic button-down.
Toteme
Toteme has been a fashion darling since debuting out of Stockholm in 2014. The Swedish ready-to-wear brand quickly became a favorite among those who followed Scandi style, and several designs, including handbags and outerwear, became instantly recognizable while still feeling totally timeless.
Toteme
Fluid V-Neck Dress Off White
For a one-piece “throw it on and go” outfit, look no further than Toteme’s collection of casual day dresses. They are easy to dress up or down with shoes and accessories.
Toteme
Patch Pocket Doublé Jacket Pale Grey Melange
Any Toteme jacket is on my wardrobe wish list; it can easily become a signature wardrobe staple.
Toteme
T-Lock Top Handle Fawn
I agree that a great bag is a wardrobe basic even though I’m not a big bag person. When I saw this T-Lock beauty IRL, it was love at first sight. Once you feel the buttery-soft leather, you’ll see why it’s worth the investment.
Toteme
Cotton Trench Skirt Black
Simple designs like this skirt get an unexpected upgrade with a matching trench coat–inspired belt.
Toteme
Shoulder-Twist Top Ecru
If stylish separates are considered wardrobe staples in your closet, then consider giving new life to older suits with an eye-catching top with elegant details.
Toteme
Leather-Collar Cotton Barn Jacket Pebble
Jackets tend to be among the pricier basics, but they also have the most longevity. A spring coat is another item that will quickly justify its cost per wear.
Source Unknown
As the only multi-brand retailer on this list, Source Unknown stands out for its continuously updated inventory and wide variety of available items. The site carries a mix of the best quality basics, special on-trend finds, and year-round essentials, including some incredible jackets and leather accessories.
Keep scrolling for my top picks, and if this is your first time shopping at Source Unknown, use code SULAUNCH15 at checkout to get 15% off your purchase.
Source Unknown
Bianca Faux Leather Biker Jacket in Washed Brown
It’s definitely worth adding this divinely distressed-looking biker jacket to your outerwear arsenal, even if you already have one or two.
Source Unknown
Ennio Faux-Leather Bomber Jacket in Mahogany
If you already have a biker jacket and want to branch out, I love this Mahogany bomber style too.
Source Unknown
Double Thin Leather Belt in Black
Confession: I don’t like belts, and I haven’t worn one in… a decade at least. I can, however, envision wearing this chic, slim style with trousers or over a blazer, which makes me think I might actually need a belt for a change.
Source Unknown
Idaho Deep V-Neck Polo in Pottery
I love anything with a collar, so this pretty polo sweater is at the top of my shopping list, even if I can only wear it for the first few weeks of spring.
Source Unknown
Pointelle Oversized Button Down Shirt in Ivory
I’m obsessed with pointelle at the moment. It is an easy way to add a little playfulness to even the most basic jeans-and-shirt look.
Source Unknown
Corrin Wrap Blazer in Charcoal
It’s a blazer. It’s a wrap. It’s everything you want it to be, especially if you’re a fan of uniform dressing but don’t want a bunch of tops that look exactly the same.