You Just Need to Add One of These 5 Basics to Your Outfit to Look Chic

modern-basics-308510-1690380065700-image

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Basics can often be described as the true backbones of a wardrobe because of their versatility and ability to be mixed and matched with a variety of other items. While there are a slew of classic basics that you might already have in your wardrobe, like white tees and straight-leg jeans, there are a few forward basics that are noteworthy. Essentially, you just need to incorporate one of the five basics coming your way into an ensemble to look chic.

You could wear one of the elevated basics ahead with trendier pieces (ahem, tube tops) or with other classic basics, like a black midi skirt, to create an of-the-moment silhouette. Also, given that the items below fall in that basics category and have that versatility factor, the selects aren't fleeting and will remain relevant for seasons to come.

Keep scrolling to check out the five modern basics that could be worth adding to your wardrobe right now.

Denim Skirt

modern-basics-308510-1690372582142-image

(Image credit: @kingharriett52)

Denim skirts continue to reign supreme as a cool and chic item that can be worn with everything from a simple tee to a blouse to a trendier tube top.

Striped Shirt

modern-basics-308510-1690372583362-image

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

A button-down shirt is a no-fail basic, especially in a more relaxed cut. Consider incorporating a striped iteration into a look for an elegant and sleek feel.

Vest

modern-basics-308510-1690372583921-image

(Image credit: @oliviafaeh)

A vest is inherently polished and works flawlessly on its own teamed with jeans, trousers, or a skirt. You could also try one layered or with a coordinating jacket. Forward yet versatile.

High-Neck Tank

modern-basics-308510-1690372583706-image

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

You can't deny the power of a trusty tank, as it's a go-to basic for so many. A style with a higher neckline has a very chic and refined feeling.

Cinched-In Blazer

modern-basics-308510-1690372584184-image

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Whether the silhouette itself is tailored at the waist or you add a belt or tie detail, a cinched-in blazer will bring a sophisticated and polished feel to any look.

Explore More:
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.