I Don't Like Buying Items That Risk Going "Out"—These Basics Will Work Forever

I’m all for testing out new trends. I do work in fashion, after all. That said, I typically like to ensure a new piece has a strong cost per wear when I do invest in something. Basically, I prefer styles that have some longevity and won’t risk going "out” after the season. Although, in reality, your style preferences are personal and will never be "out” if you love them.

Currently, I’m especially into trend-forward basics. These pieces are highly versatile but have fashion design details that make them modern staples. Below, I’m showcasing the items in question that I think could work in a wardrobe forever. They can be mixed and matched with a range of other basics or trendy pieces to create well-balanced looks. Keep scrolling for visual and shopping inspiration.

1. Cardigan

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

A cardigan is a go-to for many for practical purposes (ahem, warmth) but also to bring more style to a look.

2. White Button-Down Shirt

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(Image credit: @kingharriet52)

You can't deny the power of a classic white button-down shirt to elevate a wardrobe. It's the more relaxed styles right now that are noteworthy.

3. Straight-Leg Jeans

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(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

There are many denim silhouettes that could be considered modern classics, and straight-leg jeans would definetly rank high as a favorite.

4. Ribbed Dress

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(Image credit: @honeybelleworld)

A ribbed dress in a neutral hue can be styled with so many items to create a chic and fashion-forward vibe.

5. Blazer

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

A blazer is one of the key pieces that will add instant polish and sophistication to a wardrobe.

Next, check out more chic basics.

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Market Director

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.