For decades, the runways during February and September fashion weeks have been filled with iconic, show-stopping pieces that are beautiful to look at, but not always practical for everyday wear. However, this year, we saw a major shift in this during the fall 2023 runway shows, with designers shifting more towards elevated basics rather than unwearable fashion. Of course, there’s always room for Haute Couture. But it’s refreshing to see more classic pieces at the forefront.
When you’re looking for elevated basics, there are some important things to consider before swiping your card. You want to focus on versatile pieces that can be styled in a number of ways, like a pair of jeans you know you can turn to again and again. Prioritize fashion-foward items that you know will be in style for more than one season. Trendier pieces can be made more versatile by steering in the direction of pieces like a blazer with a fun print or a trench coat in a pop of color that can be used as a statement piece.
Whether you’re looking to update your wardrobe with a few pieces for spring, or want to elevate your style with basics you’ll have in your closet forever, we have you covered. These are 18 of the best elevated basics to shop right now.
Cotton Tee
A plain white tee is pretty self explanatory. The must-have wardrobe staple will be your go-to for layering or on its own paired with shorts or a mini skirt.
Denim Midi Skirt
The long denim skirt gained popularity in 2022 and is a wardrobe staple that is here to stay for the foreseeable future. Elevate your everyday look and swap out your classic pair of jeans for this.
Boyfriend Shirt
A denim shirt is a wearable piece that can be worn alone or layered as a light jacket. This style in particular is a great transitional piece from season to season. Make it trendier this spring by pairing it with a similar pair of denim on bottom.
Oversized Blazer
An oversized blazer is a year-round closet staple that you can get endless wear out of. This one is one of our editors’ favorites.
Oversized Button-Up
Your boyfriend called, he wants his shirt back. This cotton button-up has the perfect oversized fit and can be tucked into jeans or trousers for a polished look.
Rib Knit Cardigan
A cropped cardigan is a versatile piece that you can get wear of year-round, especially in a fun shade like this dreamy yellow.
Square Neck Satin Dress
This slip dress from Everlane has a gorgeous square neck and comes in three stunning, versatile shades. Style with strappy sandals and chunky jewelry for a fun and feminine look.
Ribbed Jersey Dress
A ribbed dress is effortlessly chic, and can be styled a million different ways (and all year round). Throw it on and toss a jacket over your shoulders for your next night out.
Zip Cuff Legging
Leggings aren’t just for lounging or working out; this pair by Toteme zips at the ankle and can be dressed up with heels and a blazer for a comfortable, sophisticated look.
Wide Leg Jeans
Equally as stylish as they are comfortable, wide-leg jeans are made to be worn any day, any time. You can dress them up for a night out or dress them down with sneakers and a cropped tee for a street style look.
Linen Trousers
Next time you get dressed, put your jeans on the backburner and opt for a relaxed pair of trousers instead. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
Mini Dome Huggies
Whether you’re a silver or gold kinda gal, you can’t go wrong these mini hoops. They’re timeless and simple enough for everyday wear, but still pack an understated punch.
Mini Moon Bag
The Staud mini moon bag is a classic shoulder bag available in a variety of colors. We’re swooning over this green shade for spring, but love their neutral shades too.
Rectangular Sunglasses
Sunglass styles come and go, but you can’t go wrong with a pair of rectangular specs. This pair has a gorgeous tortoise detailing that we can’t get enough of.
Square Toe Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are a timeless staple, but they’re also super on-trend for 2023. They’re the comfortable, year-round shoe that you won’t be able to get enough of.
Platform Sneaker
There’s nothing as effortlessly chic as a pair of all-white sneakers. You can’t go wrong with Air Force Ones, especially this pair with a platform sole.
