8 Basics Even Carrie Bradshaw Deemed Necessary

Even the most adventurous dresser can benefit from a closet adequately stocked with outfit basics. These slightly less flashy (but ever-so-helpful) pieces include staples like T-shirts, tanks, jeans, and the like and come in handy far more than any trend item you've got your eyes on. Take, for example, Carrie Bradshaw (yes, we're still talking about her because Sex and the City is still free to stream on HBO Go and HBO Now). The style icon mixed and matched her basics with bold items ranging from floral tube tops to tulle skirts, always proving that a classic can be made more interesting depending on how you wear it.
Ahead, we've rounded up all the times Bradshaw proved the versatility and necessity of investing in basics and included a shopping pick for each in the event you're in need of a refresh. Enjoy the fashion flashback and don't forget to buy your basics.
Classic White Button-Down
Whether under overalls or paired with a feather-embellished skirt, Bradshaw's crisp white button-down is a bonafide staple.
City Sneakers
Though we typically associate Bradshaw with a pretty pair of Jimmy Choos or Manolo Blahniks, her character also knew the power of a cool pair of flats.
LBD
Bradshaw proved time and time again the power of having a LBD in your closet at all times.
Striped Tee
The perfect way to finish off a pinstripe suit? A striped tee and strappy sandals, according to Bradshaw.
Wrap Dress
A wrap dress will always be a New York City girl staple.
Slip Dress
You'll get a lot of mileage out of a silk slip similar to Bradshaw's.
White Tank
Who knew a white tank top could look so chic?
Black Jeans
Bradshaw was wearing the crop-flare jeans trend long before any of us were, it seems.
Up Next: Seven things we know Carrie Bradshaw would wear in 2019.
Nicole Kliest is a freelance writer and editor based in New York City who focuses on fashion, travel, food, wine, and pretty much anything else that's amusing to write about. After graduating from Pepperdine University with a bachelor's in journalism and creative writing, she started her career back in 2010 as Who What Wear's photo editor and throughout the last decade has contributed to publications including Fashionista, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, The Zoe Report, PopSugar, Fodor's Travel, and several others. She also copywrites and has worked with clients such as Frame, Sea, 3x1, Intelligentsia, and others to develop brand voices through storytelling and creative marketing. She's very passionate about the ways we can improve our sustainability efforts in the fashion industry as well as cultivating content that's diverse and inclusive of all people. When she's not checking out the latest restaurant opening in her West Village neighborhood or riding her bicycle along the West Side Highway, she can be found scheming her next trip somewhere around the world. (Up next is Vienna.)
-
I Just Created 5 Expensive-Looking Pre-Spring Outfits from Zara, Mango, and Nordstrom—You're Welcome
Outfits for everything from a wedding to brunch.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Sunscreen Filters Abroad Are Totally Elite—Here's Why They're Not Available in the U.S. Yet
It's a bummer, but I have hope.
By Shawna Hudson
-
Jamie Mizrahi's World: The Celeb Stylist's Favorite Red Carpet Look, Most Worth-It Shoe, and Album She Listens to on Repeat
A modern-day style expert.
By Allyson Payer
-
How Everyone Will Be Wearing Their Non–Skinny Jeans This Spring
Here's your outfit inspiration.
By Michelle Scanga
-
Suddenly, Women With The Row Style Are Breaking This Fashion Rule
You should too.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFW
Let's dive in.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears Today
A true fashion icon.
By Judith Jones
-
Not Into Trends? Renée Zellweger's Winter Outfit Combo Is 100% Classic
Just as you are.
By Drew Elovitz
-
Emma Chamberlain's World: Her Warby Parker Collab, Two-Phone Rule, and Spiciest Fashion Takes
"I just want to bring the most joy to people."
By Anna LaPlaca
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in Europe
Classic looks that are always in style.
By Natalie Cantell