These 7 Basics Are the Heroes of a Fashion Person's 2021 Wardrobe

Basics are the foundational pieces in any wardrobe. It's these simple items that more or less act as outfit building blocks, helping to balance out those trendier pieces in a look. While there is a range of top-notch basics out there that many of us probably have in our offerings, there are actually a few key styles fashion people seem to be wearing on repeat at the moment. In essence, the basics in question could be considered the heroes of a style setter's 2021 wardrobe given their versatile and fashionable nature.

Below you'll uncover this edit of next-level basics, along with a bit of visual inspiration as well. As a preview, you'll see the latest in knitwear, denim, and layering pieces. With all that in mind, keep scrolling for more. Who knows, you may just end up uncovering a fresh piece that could become one of the new go-to basics in your rotation.

1. Knit Polo

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

When it comes to those more forward basics, the knit polo certainly reigns supreme this season. It's versatile in that it can pair well with just about anything, and it's also quite chic.

2. Long Coat

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

In the outerwear realm, the fashion crowd continues to embrace those longer coats (a next-level basic) to compliment their vibes. A loungewear set teamed with a maxi coat is basically one of the go-to 2021 uniforms.

3. Baggy Jeans

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(Image credit: @aude_julie)

Straight-leg jeans are certainly still a front-runner, but so are those baggier silhouettes to bring ease to a look.

4. Ribbed Separates

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(Image credit: @chanelmckinsie)

Whether it's a cardigan or a pair of pants, ribbed separates are a staple in many wardrobes for that stylish and easy vibe.

5. Oversize Button-Down Shirt

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(Image credit: @honeybelleworld)

A loose-fitting button-down shirt is a favorite when for a more polished silhouette. While the pick works perfectly with just a pair of jeans or trousers, it can also act as a layering piece underneath an item like a sweater-vest.

6. Slouchy Blazer

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(Image credit: @aimeesong)

The slouchy blazer has remained a staple in wardrobes for awhile now as a simple way to bring modern sophistication to any look. If you need to look more dressed up for a Zoom meeting, toss one on over anything for an A+ outfit.

7. Sweatsuit

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(Image credit: @greceghanem)

No basics roundup would be complete without the trusty sweatsuit. You can't go wrong with this go-to right now.

Next, check out more stylish 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.