Ready for a fresh batch of wardrobe basics? As we look ahead at the year to come, it's only natural that we sit down to discuss the upcoming styles that will dominate. Even though basics tend to have a much longer shelf life than seasonal trends, they do also go through style cycles, which is why I'm about to highlight the freshest basics of the moment and, consequently, which ones now feel outdated.
I think you'll agree with me when I say that items like distressed tees are now safely a thing of the past and that others like micro cardigans are also nearing their end dates. Of course, these are simply my opinions based on what I've been noticing in the fashion world, and you should always feel free to wear whatever you please. But if you're looking for some guidance for your 2023 foundational wardrobe or are simply curious to see which styles are hitting their expiration dates, look no further than the eight outdated basics and the pieces that are replacing them below. You'd even be wise to start shopping for your next restock now.
Expiring: Ultra-Cropped Cardigans
Having a Moment: Oversize Crew-Neck Sweaters
Every closet needs a section for staple sweaters, and I think the oversize crew-neck styles with a relaxed look are the most notable right now. Alternately, shrunken and micro cardigans seem to be on the way out.
Expiring: Heeled Mules
Having a Moment: Point-Toe Pumps
Sorry, heeled mules, but these more traditional pumps are replacing you. Point-toe pumps and slingbacks like the ones from Prada and Saint Laurent are the heels the fashion crowd is reaching for the most. With all things '90s trending right now, it's no surprise that these would eclipse heeled mules.
Expiring: Tie-Dye Sweats
Having a Moment: Cashmere Lounge Sets
Let's talk about loungewear. Luxurious cashmere sets are everywhere I look these days, particularly when they involve knit pants or skirts. And what could be better than something that's as comfy as it is chic? While colorful tie-dye sweats were certainly a fun loungewear look to don, I don't see them as having as much longevity as these more elevated sets.
Shop the matching Einer Cashmere Midi Skirt ($298).
Shop the matching Knit Cashmere Pants ($129).
Expiring: Crossbody Bags
Having a Moment: Under-the-Arm Bags
Baguette bags have been on the menu for a minute now, but in 2023, we're about to see them become the default bag choice for the everyday. Designers keep making cool versions of these under-the-arm silhouettes, which tells me that the crossbody is losing out.
Expiring: Distressed T-Shirts
Having a Moment: High-Neck Tops
In terms of T-shirts, I think it's safe to say that the distressed look is now a thing of the past. Instead of the grungier tees that come with premade holes in them, I'm seeing a lot more '90s styles with higher mock necks that look quite polished.
Expiring: Midi Skirts and Dresses
Having a Moment: Maxi Lengths
Is it 2022 or 1992? Based on the array of elongated hemlines we're seeing right now, it might as well be the latter. With slinky column skirts and dresses dominating on the runways and Instagram, these are set to be the biggest silhouettes of the year, which only solidifies that midi lengths aren't as popular.
Expiring: Colored Tights
Having a Moment: Knee-High Stockings
Classic black tights may never die, but fashion people are experimenting with a new trendy top-drawer staple this season: tall stockings. Blame Bella Hadid or the recent Miu Miu runways, but one thing's clear. Knee-high socks are taking over. One hosiery item that's cooling off? Colored and printed tights.
Expiring: Micro Booties
Having a Moment: Tall, Structured Boots
Don't worry—I'm not outing classic ankle boots (nor would I ever). Instead, I'm noticing that ultra-short booties that barely graze the tops of our ankles seem to be nowhere in sight recently. I believe it's because taller, more structured boots are the basics du jour.
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