What’s the key to a well-rounded wardrobe? A handful of reliable basics, of course! Our classic staples serve as the backbone of our wardrobes—always on hand to get us through each season and practically every occasion in style. Whether you wear your basics styled together or pair them with other statement pieces, fashion girls everywhere know the importance of investing in a timeless staple.
This week I did a deep dive into the basics stylish women tend to gravitate to in three major fashion cities—London, New York, and Paris. From trench coats to sneakers, button-downs to high-waisted jeans, scroll below if you’re looking to invest in a chic basic (or two) this season.
PARIS
Button-Down Shirt
No French wardrobe is complete without a classic button-down. Opt for a slightly oversize silhouette for a nonchalant look.
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High-Waisted Straight Leg Jeans
If there is one staple French girls wear year-round, day and night—no matter what the weather—it's jeans—high-waisted straight-leg jeans, in particular, that are easy to wear with everything.
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Cropped Cardigan
Whether it's a lightweight cardigan in summer or a thicker wool option for the colder months, French girls always love to have the layering piece on hand.
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Camisole Tank Top
The foundation of an outfit is very important in French dressing. A chic camisole or tank top is a basic piece French women wear on repeat with midi skirts and jeans alike.
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Slip Dress
Simple yet striking, just one scroll of any French girl's feed and you're highly likely to find a sleek slip dress.
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Lace Bra
French women see lingerie as an essential extension of their wardrobe—and they'll put just as much investment and time into buying a lace bra as they put into finding a great pair of jeans.
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LONDON
Crewneck Sweater
A basic crewneck sweater is an essential piece in any London girl's wardrobe—especially in the colder months. It acts as a base under a statement coat and is the perfect layering piece over tank tops and tees.
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Rain Coat
The weather in England is not exactly the most reliable (I should know... I'm from there myself). A trench coat or raincoat is a must for that unexpected downpour and a chic transitional topper to complete any outfit.
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Black Ankle Boots
Most London girls will have a trusty pair of comfortable black ankle boots in their closet—whether it's a trending chunky lug sole or a kitten heel—it's a staple that pairs well with practically everything in their wardrobes.
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Blazer
You can't walk down a London street without seeing someone in a chic blazer. The basic adds a polished touch to every outfit. Whether it's black, beige, or cream, opt for a slightly oversized silhouette to pair over a sweater and skirt.
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NEW YORK
Sneakers
From subway rides to walking around the city—comfortable shoes are key for New York fashion girls. Opt for a retro pair to add a cool touch to your outfit.
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Leather Jacket
Outwear is a key component to every New York fashion girls wardrobe. A staple leather jacket is a staple favorite—it's not only warm and lightweight but it's great for layering over a sweater or tee, or under an overcoat as the temps fluctuate from season to season. Not to mention it exudes a cool New York edge.
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Tailored Pants
From boardroom to bar, tailored pants are a chic way to make every ensemble look more put-together.
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Little Black Dress
Nothing says New York-city-chic quite like a little black dress. The staple is versatile to take you stylishly from day-to-night in the city that never sleeps.
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Up next, a New York girl and a French girl go online shopping—here are the 16 items they buy.
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