It’s a fact: basics like t-shirts, denim and sweaters are essentials in every girl’s wardrobe — we wear ’em to death. These everyday sartorial workhorses that you turn to time and time again need constant updating. It’s only a matter of time before that on-point stash of old tights and tees begins to show some wear — fading fabrics, tears that are only two stitches away from causing major drama and, of course, the inevitable stain or two. Keeping a couple backups on hand definitely doesn’t hurt, and might even save you a few bucks in the long run if you score a few of your fave basics on sale. Need a place to start? These six indisputable closet champions are definitely worth stockpiling.
Your Favorite Jeans
Sure, a girl can only wear so many pairs of jeans at a time, and there’s definitely such a thing as going a little too far (owning every wash and cut under the sun probably isn’t necessary). That being said, finding a hole in your favorite pair of denim is borderline devastating, especially if you aren’t so into the distressed look. Use your sartorial savvy and pick up an extra pair or two of your go-to cut when they go on sale so that your off-the-clock style game is always on lock.
Current/Elliott Boyfriend Cropped Mid-Rise Jeans ($225), Mango Crop Skinny Isa Jeans ($50), Cheap Monday Dropped Jeans ($105) + M.i.h. Marrakesh Jean ($255)
Button-Down Shirts
Button-down shirts are workweek heroes, but they can hack it off-duty too, adding instant polish to everything from joggers to jeans or a simple pair of leggings. Pulling double duty means endless outfit opportunities, but also double the wear and tear, which can do a number on your wallet. Even with proper care, discoloration, stretching and an assortment of other less-than-awesome signs of wear will make a few new toppers a must. Vary your fabrics and pick up everything from the most sumptuous silk blouses to the warmest flannels.
ASOS Watercolour Check Print Blouse ($62), J.Crew Buffalo Check Shirt Jacket ($118), H&M Oversized Denim Shirt ($35) + Sister Jane Starflower Blouse ($70)
Chic Flats
Every closet deserves a pair of killer heels, but flats are the bread and butter of your wardrobe. They keep feet happy and your style on point. Pounding the pavement can do a serious number on your shoes, and that mangled look is so not chic, so repairing and replacing the dearly departed is key. Splurge on a few quality pairs that will hold up to abuse and pick up the more trendy styles each season from fast-fashion meccas. Like a classic pair of black pumps, you can’t go wrong with variations on oxfords, loafers and pointed-toe ballet flats.
London Rebel Ghillie Lace Point Flat Shoes ($73), & Other Stories Gold Ombre Leather Shoes ($195), M. Gemi The Stellato ($198) + Charles & Keith Metal Tip Oxfords ($57)
Elevated Tees
The t-shirt is the ultimate wardrobe multi-tasker: an essential layering piece, a simple basic topper and the secret ingredient to making any look more casual. Favorite tees end up in constant rotation and can take quite the beating. When yours starts looking a little lackluster, snag a few extra of your go-to style and round out your closet’s offerings with a couple flattering prints, fabrics and cuts that serve to shake things up. End-of-season sales are a great time to stock up, with timeless yet out-of-season colors getting marked way down.
J.Crew Waffle T-Shirt ($40), Groceries Apparel Georgia Crop ($62), COS V-Neck Triangle Top ($99) + Everlane Street Fleece Short-Sleeve Sweatshirt ($40)
Tights
After finally deciding to take that new dress out on the town, you see it — a Lake Michigan-sized hole in the back of your tights and the bane of every girl’s existence. Unfortunately ripped tights are inevitable, and once they happen, there isn’t much that can bring them back to life. Keep an arsenal of hosiery on hand, both at home and in your bag, in the event your tights decide to go south. (It’s also the perfect excuse to finally pick up that pair of glitter-flecked fishnets.)
Hansel from Basel Alley Cat Tights ($34), Nasty Gal Put a Pinstripe in It Tights ($18), American Apparel Sheer Spiral Pantyhose ($14) + Hue Metallic Tights ($18)
Easy-to-Layer Sweaters
Basic layering sweaters will take you through every season, serving as a stand-alone piece or a much-needed addition of warmth. Needless to say, they’ll never wind up forgotten about in the back of your closet. But along with their versatility comes pilling, snagging and thinning. High-end fabrics will help you navigate some of these common issues, but to keep your lineup in top form, stock up on a few styles when they go on sale to add to your rotation.
Zara Ribbed Turtleneck ($36), Everlane Wool Ribbed Mid-Sleeve Sweater ($65), Forever21 Open-Front Longline Cardigan ($38) + Reiss Erika Scoop-Neck Jumper ($220)
Is there a piece you buy on repeat? Tweet us @britandco!
