As someone with expensive taste, I'm inspired by elegant outfits the most. Sure, based on the spring/summer 2025 runways, we're leaning more toward maximalism, but that certainly doesn't mean that elegance in fashion is dead. (It never will be.) I'm reminded of this every time I scroll through my Instagram feed, which always features a bevy of stylish people.
I've been taking stock of my basics as of late, and the first place I'll be placing an order is J.Crew—in part, because of nine elegant outfits I recently came across that each feature a standout basic that J.Crew happens to stock. As you'll see, some of the basics I'm shopping are trendier than others, but a great wardrobe is all about balance. I think we can all agree that a great wardrobe is also one that's filled with elevated, affordable basics. Keep scrolling to shop the J.Crew ones that I think are elite.
White Jeans
If you ask me, white jeans are for year-round wear, and this outfit really inspired me to order a fresh pair. Luckily, J.Crew has plenty of them to choose from.
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Suede Belt
Specifically, I want a new brown suede belt to wear with an all-black outfit. Look how ridiculously chic this particular outfit is.
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Denim Button-Down
I have a hunch that the denim button-down is going to overthrow the white button-down in 2025, and I'm preparing my wardrobe for it.
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Necktie
Some would argue that a necktie is far more of a trend than a basic, but ties have been a menswear basic for as long as anyone can remember. Doesn't that make it a basic no matter who's wearing it?
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Black Long-Sleeve Tee
A long-sleeve black tee is one of the easiest items to layer and dress up or down. Bonus points if it's fitted like this one.
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Miniskirt
Unlike other skirt styles, I find that miniskirts look good with all types of shoes. Plus, as someone on the petite side, I find that short hemlines are the most flattering length.
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V-Neck Cashmere Sweater
V-neck sweaters are still one of the biggest basics trends of the season, and I think I need another one now.
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Trench Coat
We talk about trench coats a lot in fashion, and that's because they're one of the most timeless, elegant basics there is. Styling one with a pair of long shorts and a T-shirt is an outfit combination I will be copying come spring.
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Classic Black Trousers
I wear jeans a lot, and I'm planning to mix things up a bit more this year. The first step is ordering a pair of classic black trousers from J.Crew.
Shop the Basic
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