Let's face it: Basics can be kind of boring. But as far as wardrobe essentials go, they're as essential as it gets. A person cannot live on trendy pieces alone. We need those everyday items to supplement the seasonal trends, but the good news is that the supplemental basics needn't be boring. They're more subtle than the in-your-face trends, but there are basics trends too, and they tend to be relevant for longer than their non-basic seasonal counterparts, so that's good news for your bank account.
If you're like me and are itching to freshen up your basics collection for 2025, I'm here to tell you how to do so. Below, you'll find examples of the freshest version of every basic your wardrobe needs, from jeans to blazers, and shopping to go along with it. If you're having thoughts adjacent to this, you've come to the right place: I need a new white T-shirt, but do I really need another short-sleeve crewneck white T-shirt?
Scroll on to shop the most current version of the eight basics you need for a well-rounded wardrobe.
Lightweight Sweater: Striped Cardigan
Everyone is still all about the cardigan, but to get a bit more specific, cardigans with nautical stripes are what people really want at the moment. They'll give all of your outifts that classic French-girl feel, as seen on the French girl below.
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Pants: Cigarette Trousers
If you're already tired of hearing about skinny pants, I apologize in advance, but the return of the style is just getting started. If you want to invest in a pair you'll wear a ton, stick with a simple black or navy pair.
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Jeans: Bootcut
There are plenty of denim trends to choose from right now, but it's bootcut jeans that feel the freshest. Pair them with pointed-toe heels or flats for the most elegant look.
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Skirt: Lace-Trimmed Slip
After last year's flared midi skirt takeover, people seem to be migrating to something a bit sleeker, and that's lace-trimmed slip skirts. There are a million ways to style the pretty style, and it's simple to dress it up or down.
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T-Shirt: 3/4 Sleeve
It's great to have an array of T-shirt styles in your wardrobe, but the one that's making a comeback in 2025 is 3/4-sleeve tees. They give any outfit they're a part of an elegant '90s touch.
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Blazer: Fitted
There will always be a place for an oversized blazer in a well-rounded wardrobe, but fitted blazers are the style everyone is shopping for in 2025. The flattering piece looks great on it's own or over a fitted tee or tank.
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Shorts: A-Line
As someone who loves shorts, I'm always on the lookout for the latest styles, and it's A-line shorts with a high waist and subtle flare that keep popping up for me. I've already ordered a couple of pairs myself (including the butter yellow Posse pair below)
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Jacket: Trench
Trench coats are always relevant, but people seem to be wearing them a lot lately, and styling them in unique ways. 2025 is a great time to invest in a new one that you'll wear for years to come.
Shop the Basic
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