Wardrobe basics are the foundation of every great wardrobe. It’s nearly impossible to get dressed without incorporating some kind of closet staple, such as a tank top, t-shirt, jeans, button-up, etc. And having high-quality basics is essential – since they are worn so frequently. If you’ve ever had to discard a T-shirt after only a few wears, you know that not all wardrobe basics are made equally.
Through trial and error, we’ve found where to shop for the best basics that check off all the boxes (fit, quality, style). Spoiler alert: Knowing which pieces to shop from where is key. You may find that your favourite jeans come from a different store than your go-to knits.
Your guide on where to shop for the best wardrobe basics:
UNIQLO
UNIQLO is an amazing one-stop-shop for essentially all wardrobe basics. Known for incorporating innovative technology into its apparel, UNIQLO provides high-quality basics across all categories of clothing, without compromising style. From its viral bra tops to its AIRism base layers, you can’t go wrong with UNIQLO’s affordable, innovative basics!
Aritzia
For elevated basics that feel luxe, check out Aritzia’s selection! Carrying exclusive in-house brands such as Wilfred, Babaton, TNA, and Denim Forum (and many more) along with other brands like Citizen’s of Humanity, AGOLDE, and New Balance, there is no shortage of basics to shop at Aritzia. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect non-see-through white tank, jeans that will stand the test of time, or a flattering blazer that can take you from the office to drinks with the girls, Aritzia has it.
Kotn
Kotn started with the goal of creating the perfect T-shirt. Not only has the mission been accomplished, but the brand has gone on to create a wide range of “perfect” wardrobe basics. Its entire collection is comprised of timeless essentials crafted from natural fibres, designed in Canada and made in Egypt and Portugal. You can shop for basics like trousers, dresses, skirts, T-shirts, and more, guilt-free from the B-Corp certified brand.
Eileen Fisher
On the more luxury side of wardrobe basics, there’s Eileen Fisher. Eileen Fisher creates designs based on a system of simple shapes that work together to provide easy (yet stylish) options for every body. The brand is not only known for its effortless styles but also for its roots in sustainability and quality. If you’re on the hunt for easy wardrobe basics that you can comfortably wear at home or out and about, consider investing in a garment or two from Eileen Fisher.
Richer Poorer
Richer Poorer aims to create products that aren’t overly complicated but are your favourite – which is essentially the foundation of all great basics, if we do say so ourselves. While shopping the brand, you’ll find a variety of key wardrobe silhouettes in various colours. We all know that once you find the perfect top, you need it in every colour, after all.
COS
Rooted in luxury design and compelling styles, COS pays meticulous attention to sustainable craftsmanship, quality, and colour, providing its customers with contemporary, elevated wardrobe basics they can wear over and over. Sitting at the mid-price point, we turn to COS for stylized wardrobe essentials to give our closet a more high-end feel.
Madewell
We all know how difficult it can be to find the perfect jeans. You know… ones that fit everywhere perfectly, stay in shape all day without stretching out too much, are a nice wash, and, dare we say, are actually relatively comfortable. Well, Madewell has made that mission a whole lot easier! Although it doesn’t exclusively just sell jeans, that is a big part of what it’s known for. We’re currently eyeing The Perfect Vintage Jean.
Everlane
With the brand stating that it’s “not big on trends,” you’ll find pieces at Everlane that are designed (and made) to last a lifetime – without ever going out of style. From its Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee to its Linen Way-High Drape Pant, you can rest assured that the wardrobe essentials you shop from Everlane will live in your closet for years to come.
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All brands featured in this article were independently selected by our team. By shopping through our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
If you’re someone who has a closet full of clothes but still find you have trouble putting an outfit together, you’re probably lacking closet staples! Having a variety of trendy clothing and accessory pieces is great and all, but they can be difficult to wear together, which is where your closet staples come in! Once you have a good foundation of basics, it becomes so much easier to get dressed in the morning, and style those exciting pieces in your closet you’ve been dying to wear.
Here are the wardrobe staples your closet needs!
Black & White T-Shirts
You can truly never have enough plain T-shirts. They can be worn on their own or act as a layering base, which is why they’re so essential! You should have a few go-to tees in your closet that fit slightly differently, to cover all the basis. Oversized, slim-fitting, and a classic relaxed and you’re set!
Perfect-Fitting Jeans
It probably goes without saying, but a pair of perfect-fitting jeans can go a long way in your wardrobe! Right now, the baggy and flared styles are very much trending, but a pair of simple, straight-leg, medium-wash jeans will truly never go out of style and they go with everything.
White Button-Up
You may be surprised by how many ways you can style a white button-up, dressed up or down! You can wear it open with a tank or tee underneath, buttoned all the way up for a more streamlined look, half-tucked and semi-buttoned for a nautical vibe – you get it.
Tank Tops
We don’t really need to explain too much into this closet basic. You should always have a few black and white tank tops (maybe with various necklines) for layering purposes!
Oversized Blazer
Okay, it doesn’t have to be oversized if that’s not your thing, but oversized ones just tend to go a bit further in your wardrobe. If you ask us, everyone should have a blazer handy – you never know when you’re going to need it! Plus, they easily elevate any casual outfit, too.
Simple Knit Sweater
When you don’t know what to wear, throwing on a simple yet sleek knit sweater always looks good. It goes with jeans, trousers, and skirts making it a really fool-proof wardrobe staple!
Trousers
If you’ve yet to find a perfect pair of trousers, you should go on a hunt now! If you find a silhouette you like, grab them in a couple of different colours, we kind of love these Abercrombie ones! Trousers can be like jeans – sometimes finding the perfect one takes a few tries, but once you have them, you’ll never look back! Trousers are not only really versatile in your closet, but they’re also pretty comfortable too.
Black Midi Dress
Similar to the “little black dress”, is the “midi black dress”. Same concept, just a little more refined and wearable to all occasions. When you don’t know what to wear, a midi black dress is pretty much always a safe option, it can be styled in endless ways, living a long life in your closet.
Leggings
Even though Queen Blair Waldorf famously says “Tights are not pants!” – there’s definitely a way to go about wearing them. Having a pair of sleek leggings in your closet makes it easy to get up and run out of the house on errand-filled days or when you’re going for an athleisure look. If you wear leggings (even the flared ones) intentionally casual, it can be totally chic!
White Sneakers
Getting into shoes, everyone should have at least one pair of white sneakers that they can easily throw on! There isn’t much white sneakers can’t be paired with. Plus, they’re just an easy and practical shoe choice for everyday wear. Tip: Make sure to keep them clean for a more crisp look!
Combat Boots
Boot styles come and go, but one style that never really goes out of style is a great pair of combat boots! Docs, in particular, have clearly stood the test of time, and can be worn throughout every season with different outfits!
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Are you on the hunt to give your wardrobe the upgrade that it deserves without racking up those shopping bills? There are a ton of sites to browse and most make it quite easy to filter your spending options so you can stay within your budget. When thinking about scoring trendy pieces at a low price, the first store that comes to mind may not be Revolve, but we’ve got news for you, there’s a massive selection of affordable items to sift through. That’s right, Revolve has become our one-stop shop for both statement and staple items at all different price points. So whether you’re searching for apparel, accessories, footwear, and more, Revolve has you covered!
Here are our top items at Revolve for under $100.
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Are you getting the feeling it’s time to revamp your wardrobe? Whether you want to keep up with the latest trends or completely overhaul your personal style, we have some tips to help.
Here are some things you can do to completely revamp your style without breaking the bank.
1. Start With a Closet Clean-Out
Before adding any new pieces to your wardrobe, it’s time to say goodbye to some of your well-loved or never-worn items. Take the time to go through your closet and see what you can part with.
Departing with clothes that are no longer your style makes more room in your wardrobe and creates a fresh start for your new aesthetic. Plus, you may even be able to take your gently-used clothing to a consignment store or sell them online for some added funds to purchase new items.
2. Be Creative With What You Already Have
After cleaning out your closet you may have some pieces that you don’t want to part with or that can serve another purpose. When you want to revamp your wardrobe on a budget, reinventing some of your existing clothing items is a great way to save money.
Be inspired by trendy items and see how you can breathe new life into what you already own. For instance, a pair of jeans can be cut into cute shorts for the summer or a denim jacket can be updated to a Y2K style with appliques and some paint.
3. Define Your Style
Before heading to the store, make sure to define your style and get an idea of what you want to buy. Maybe you want to go outside of your comfort zone or perhaps you want more classic pieces, like a little black dress, to create a capsule wardrobe.
No matter the case, creating a mood board or other lists can help keep you focused (and within your budget) as you revamp your wardrobe.
4. Think of Layers
As you shop, think about how you can mix and match items in your wardrobe year-round. Layering pieces is a great way to feel comfortable, look trendy, and get the most out of your clothing.
This might mean investing in more basics like a short-sleeve white tee and neutral colors, but also keep your personal style in mind.
5. Look For Sales
When you’re revamping your wardrobe on a budget, sales will be your best friend. While you can also find plenty of great items at thrift stores, you can also avoid paying full price on completely new items through warehouse sales and more.
Next time you think “I need to revamp my wardrobe” turn to StyleDemocracy. Check out our upcoming sales events from our amazing brand partners.
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Do you feel like you have nothing to wear, even though you have a closet full of clothes? Although we’ve all been there before, there is a practical solution. And no, it doesn’t involve buying a whole new wardrobe! Instead, add nude and neutral items to your collection. Then, you can easily mix and match pieces with (pretty much) everything you already own.
Here are nude and neutral pieces that you need in your wardrobe.
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More often than not, sifting through your closet for something to wear seems difficult. You have a plethora of clothes, but nothing at the same time. Although, contrary to popular belief, kicking this paradox to the curb is totally achievable. All you actually need are the right wardrobe basics that will make putting together multiple outfits a breeze.
Stock up on several of the trendy basics below and you’ll leave the house looking like a street style star every day. Take a look at 23 wardrobe basics for under $75 that you won’t be able to live without below. Deciding on an outfit just got a whole lot easier!
Plain Tank
Think of the Irwin tank from Aritzia like your fashion bread and butter. Pair it with jeans and a jacket, or dress pants depending on the occasion and you’re good to go.
Fitted Long Sleeve Tee
Aritzia Mock Neck T-Shirt – $40
Similar to a fitted tank, this sleek mock neck t-shirt will be one of your go-to’s during colder weather and is just as easy to style.
Slouchy Muscle Tank
Aritzia Foundation Muscle Tank – $32
On the days that you feel like being comfy, yet still effortlessly cool a slouchy muscle tank is the perfect option to pair with sooo many different outfits.
Animal Print Button Up
Zara Snakeskin Button Up – $39.90
Animal print is all the rage right now. Pick up a print like snakeskin in a classic style button up and it will remain stylish even when the animal print isn’t as hot.
Plain Wrap Top
Zara Combined Wrap Top – $39.90
The look of a wrap top is so sleek and there are so many possibilities. Dress it down with a pair of jeans or wear it with a skirt and thigh high boots for date night.
Oversized White Button Up
Zara Long Shirt Dress – $39.90
There’s something effortlessly cool about oversized and if you do this trend in a white button-up style, your options for outfits and occasions will be endless.
Mom Jeans
Zara Authentic Denim Mom Jeans – $45.90
The mom jean style doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. Scoop up a pair in a classic denim blue and still look put together on your casual days.
Black Skinny High Rise Jeans
TOBI Rodeo Black Denim Jeans – $56.00
I don’t think I need to explain why having a pair of high waisted, fitted black jeans is a must. You can literally pair these with anything in your closet.
T-shirt Dress
A simple t-shirt dress is good to have when you only have enough time to throw something on. Pair it with your chunky sneakers and you’ll be totally on-trend.
Fitted Bodycon Dress
A fitted bodycon dress is good for so many occasions. Similar to the t-shirt dress, it’s only one thing you have to worry about putting on, not to mention, it will go with any type of jacket.
Longline Blazer
TOBI Kendall Black Blazer – $64
A longline blazer is somehow more stylish than a fitted one or a cropped one. It’s also easier to pair with outfits since it looks nice over shorter and longer tops.
Longline Cardigan
Forever 21 Longline Knit Cardigan – $27.90
Having a longline cardigan is something that is easy to layer and will make your outfit look effortlessly chic. It’s perfect for that in between weather and can be dressed up or down.
Chunky Knit Sweater
TOBI The Chills Rose Off Shoulder Sweater – $66.00
https://www.instagram.com/p/BpsyaSEHrL8/
When the weather is cold, having a chunky sweater to bundle up in will make you feel warm and cozy, while still remaining stylish and easy to pair with multiple outfits.
Cat Eye Sunglasses
TOBI Ceci Black Cat Eye Sunglasses – $12.00
Any street style aficionado knows that the perfect accessory to top of a look are some cat eye sunglasses. Opt for black over tortoise and they’ll match with any number of outfits.
Faux Leather Skirt
H&M Leather Skirt with Belt – $29.99
A leather skirt is one of those wardrobe items that will always elevate a look, yet is super easy to work with. Similarly to a lot of these basics, you won’t have any issues dressing it up or down.
Puffer Coat
A puffer jacket in a bright hue is something you won’t be able to live without this season. Pop it over top of basically any plain coloured outfit and you’re going to look hella cool.
Leather Biker Jacket
Zara Faux Leather Zippered Jacket – $39.99
A leather jacket is something that is never going to go out of style and will always look effortlessly cool. Having one of these in your wardrobe will make dressing so much easier.
Sweater Dress
TOBI Olive Sweater Dress – $71
A sweater dress is the perfect item for when you want to be cozy, but still look put together. Wear it with a pair of skinny jeans or some black tights and heels for an evening-ready look.
Small Square Crossbody Bag
Zara Detailed Crossbody Bag – $45.90
Square micro-purses are being toted by so many designers right now. Grab one in black that will go with anything and you’ll look super trendy as soon as you drape over your shoulder.
Black Bootie
Zara Flat Elastic Ankle Boots – $49.90
If you don’t already have a pair of black booties, I don’t know how you’re living. These guys will become your staple as they’re incredibly versatile.
Chunky Sneaker
Chunky dad sneakers are still in, but you don’t have to spend an arm and leg to cop the style. These plain white platform sneakers are comfy AF and so easy to pair with outfits.
Black Loafers
While we’re still on the topic of shoes, having a pair of sleek black loafers is always a good idea. You can dress these as street chic or make them fancier by wearing them in place of heels.
Cabby Hat
When it comes to hats, a lot of us overlook this accessory, but it can definitely elevate your entire look. A black cabby style hat is something you can wear any season and pair with any number of outfits for an added edge.
Featured image: Instagram/ @ngxcivy