I Love to Shop, But I'd Skip Every New Trend in Honour of These 5 Chic Basics

As a fashion editor, I get such a thrill discovering fresh trends. That said, when it comes to my personal wardrobe, my selection tends to skew to the simple side thanks to a hefty assortment of basics. When I do go for it a bit more, it's usually in the form of statement accessories. 

If I'm being totally honest, I'd probably skip every new, trendy item right now in honour of the staple pieces I've pulled out below. These items really are the backbone of a modern wardrobe—they're all extremely versatile and could be styled in so many different ways.

I bet some of these pieces are already go-tos for you. If so, there's a bunch of shopping inspiration below if you want to refresh anything. Keep scrolling to check out my current favourite wardrobe basics.

1. Relaxed White Shirt

Style Notes: A white button-down shirt is classic. The oversized silhouette has become a staple in many wardrobes over the past few seasons. 

SHOP WHITE SHIRTS:

Arket is a go-to for great-quality basics on the high street. 

Too cool for school, quite literally.

2. Black Blazer

Style Notes: A trusty blazer will always be a go-to. I believe it's one of the most versatile pieces you can own because you can dress it up or down. 

SHOP BLACK BLAZERS:

Everyone on the Who What Wear team rates Arket's blazers.

A great option if you're on a budget.

3. Straight-Leg Jeans

Style Notes: Yes, blue jeans are always front-runners, but I also love black in a straight-leg fit. Both are versatile, sleek and create a streamlined silhouette. 

SHOP STRAIGHT-LEG JEANS:

A barrel leg looks so good with ankle boots. 

4. Tank Top

Style Notes: I rely on a basic tank top to take my simplest looks to the next level. It's the perfect foundation for just about any easy summer look. 

SHOP TANK TOPS:

I'm all for thick, stretchy cotton. 

You can't deny the magic of Skims basics.

This would be such a winner with baggy jeans and trainers. 

Reformation's Tasha tank also comes in four other colours. 

This ribbed H&M style is an ideal layering piece.

5. Camel Knitwear

A fashion editor's 5 basics: @tylynnguyen wears a camel cardigan

Photo:

@tylynnguyen

Style Notes: A tan or camel jumper or cardigan is effortlessly chic—it just feels so elevated. Tie it around your shoulders as a layering piece or wear it with your favourite jeans when the weather gets chillier. 

SHOP CAMEL SWEATERS:

This classic crew neck is a true love-forever item.

This rich camel looks great every winter.

The loose fit brings this sweater straight into 2023. 

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Up Next, Autumn/Winter 2023 Trends: The Fashion Looks You Need to Know About