I'm a Gen-Z Editor, and I Can't Live Without These 30 Basics
As part of my spring cleaning, I did a major closet cleanout, removing clothes I no longer wear to free up space for all the fabulous new clothes waiting for me in the future. During my cleanout, however, I noticed a lack of great basics in my closet. I know the backbone of a stellar wardrobe is versatile basics you can wear on repeat, and now that I've tossed out my old distressed jeans and tube tops from college, I have space to start building the basics collection my wardrobe so desperately needs.
In the search for great basics, my initial reaction was to check Reformation, Shopbop, and Mango. These retailers don't mess around when it comes to basics, and as a member of Gen Z and an editor based in New York, I'm not looking for your average, run-of-the-mill basics. I found 30 basics so perfect I almost don't want to share them.
Of course, I'd never gatekeep when it comes to fashion, so scroll on to see which 30 basics I can't wait to wear.
If I had a weekday uniform, it would be a bodysuit and jeans.
A good pair of trousers are a must-have. There are so many ways to style them, and they always look chic. They're the backbone of my work wardrobe.
Wedges returned in the summer of 2022, and their comeback continues in 2023. These ones have my attention.
What I love about this top is that it's comfortable and super stylish at the same time. Oh, and you can style it with basically anything.
This has been described as "the perfect tank top." I need to test-drive it myself.
Maxi skirts are having a moment right now. I see myself wearing this with a belt and a white tee or tank.
I'm so excited for summer because it means it's time to break out the white linen minidresses.
A good pair of flowy pants are always good to have around. I love this off-white color too. It's perfect for summer.
These are the best trousers on the market for $40, trust me.
A good pair of mules is nonnegotiable for me. I could see myself wearing these to work, on the weekend, on vacation, to brunch—you name it, I'm probably wearing these.
I basically live in dresses in the summer, and this classic one from Staud is easy and pretty. I'm in love.
I have these in the shade Colorado, and I wear them all the time. They're so comfortable and look so good on.
Next up, 32 Trendy Nordstrom Finds That Are Shockingly Under $100
Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Grace has always been a lover of all things fashion and beauty. Upon receiving her first degree in visual communications from FIDM in Los Angeles, she moved to New York City and continued her education at LIM College, majoring in fashion media with a minor in society and culture. Grace has worked for PhotoBook magazine, Insider, and Harper's Bazaar. As a writer, Grace has had pieces published covering topics including racial justice, fashion, politics, and current events. As the previous assistant shopping editor at Who What Wear, Grace loves finding the best buys out there for the WWW readers.
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