There are basics, and then there are trendy basics. I'm here to talk about the latter, but you already knew that from this story's title. While I do think that every wardrobe needs its standard-issue white tees and blue jeans, I want to rant about the basics that are a little more forward, a touch cooler, and 100% worth buying. Since I wear my basics constantly, I'm always on the lookout for trendier ones to update my wardrobe with, and I've landed on eight such versions that I already know will feature regularly in my 2023 wardrobe.
Below, you'll find the fresh styles I can't help but obsess over right now purely because their cool factor is on par with how versatile they are—and that's not always the case when it comes to these foundational items. So continue on to get a glimpse of the trendy wardrobe basics I'll be incorporating into my ensembles all year long and, of course, shop my picks for each.
Worn-In Leather Jackets
Leather outerwear is always present in my closet to some degree, and right now, I'm most interested in jackets with a distressed, worn-in look. I love how the vintage appeal lends an immediate cool factor to whatever they're styled with.
Shop my picks:
The matching skirt caught my eye too.
This could easily pass for vintage.
Simple, sleek and truly timeless.
Well done, Mango.
Denim Maxi Skirts
We've already pointed out how long denim skirts are *the* trend for spring 2023, but I think the styles can easily become staples to wear on repeat throughout the rest of the year too. Come summer, I plan on wearing mine with ribbed tanks and sandals.
Shop my picks:
Agolde denim comes highly recommended.
This also comes in a dark blue version.
Reworked from the OG 2000s style.
I'm copying this entire look come summer.
Sculptural Studs
One item I simply can't stop wearing with anything and everything is a pair of sculptural studs. Call it the Bottega effect, but these artful drop earrings are completely eclipsing my regular hoops.
Shop my picks:
This sculptural twist pair are a personal favourite.
These also come in gold.
The shape is reminiscent of a shell, perfect for warmer months.
The shape wraps around your ear for a bold look.
Beautiful Ballet Flats
I'll be honest: I haven't thought about wearing ballet flats since 2010, but with all the new takes on them, I'm once again a flats girl. Pairs that feature pretty satin finishes or metal embellishments are what I'm gravitating toward more than anything.
Shop my picks:
A Mary Jane ballet flat hybrid.
We've spotted metallic styles on so many fashion people.
Such a fun twist on classic ballerinas.
The elastics add an authentic ballet feel.
Classic Belts
While they're definitely more on the basic end than the trendy end of the spectrum, I'd argue that classic leather belts are having a moment. I like that they can take an otherwise boring outfit up a notch and instantly pull together the simplest of combinations, like a tee and jeans or button-down and trousers per the above look.
Shop my picks:
Classic with a twist.
The studs add just enough edge to feel contemporary and timeless all at once.
We've spotted double-belts everywhere from the runway to the sidewalk.
A subtle update.
High-Neck Tops
Simple but elite—that's how I'd describe high-neck tops like the viral Reformation Lindy Top. The mock-neck silhouette just looks so elevated and chic, and the style is quickly replacing my standard crew-necks.
Shop my picks:
This comes in seven staple colourways.
So chic.
Add to your year-round wardrobe.
Just wait until you see the back.
Pointelle Tanks
Tanks are always in full force in my closet, and this year, I'm especially into pointelle styles that feel French to me. I just placed an order for this pretty style from fan-favourite Cou Cou, and I can already tell I'll be wearing it a lot this spring and summer.
There's so much detail in this one piece.
Made with French leaver's lace.
The rose detail is so sweet.
Tights
Tights—yes, tights—are in the middle of a rebrand. Cool girls everywhere are adopting the "grandma" staple you were probably overlooking, and the runways are rife with styling inspiration to back it up. At no more than £13 a pop, I'll be trying out a range of styles, from fishnets to coloured pairs.
Shop my picks:
You'll also find this pair in black.
Yes, colourful tights are back on the fashion agenda.
If you're unsure where to look, M&S is a safe bet for hosiery.
A barely-there style.
This story originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S.
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