These 9 Basics Make My Outfits Look Rich, so I Bought Them in Multiple Colors

As someone who’s been working as a fashion editor for the past 12 years, I’m pretty discerning when it comes to wardrobe basics. With all of the options on the market these days, there’s no reason to settle for clothing and accessories that you don’t love and want to wear often. The flip side of that is there’s also an overwhelming number of wardrobe basics on the market to choose from, so when I find something I really love, I tend to be quite loyal to said item.

I was sifting through the contents of my closet recently and found that I owned more basics in multiple colors than I’d even realized, and they all had something in common. They add an expensive-looking element to any outfit they’re added to, for one reason or another. If you ask me, buying something and then going back to buy it in additional colors is a true testament to how great it is.

In case you’re curious about the expensive-looking wardrobe basics a picky fashion editor buys in multiple colors, keep scrolling to shop my staples along with me.

Leset Nando Tee

I own more T-shirts than I care to admit, but more often than not, the one that ends up complementing my outfits best is the Leset Nando Tee. It’s extremely well-made (as all Leset items are) and is fitted without being too fitted. Trust me—order it. It’s a keeper.

Levi’s 501 ’90s Jeans

If you’re looking for the perfect pair of vintage-like straight-leg jeans that won’t do damage to your clothing budget, your search can stop here.

Reformation Carolina Skirt

Basics don’t have to be boring, and this skirt proves it. It can be styled in a multitude of different ways and dressed up or down. The fact that Reformation keeps releasing it in different colors proves that it’s one of the brand’s staple items.

Madewell The Easy Shirt

I get pickier about button-down shirts by the year, but the Madewell Easy Shirt is one to write home about. It hits at the perfect length, is oversize without being too oversize, is well-made, and comes in a plethora of colors. Plus, it’s under $100!

Comme Si The Yves Socks

Socks shouldn’t be put on the back burner. They’re a key basic that’s functional and can even become the focal point of an outfit, in a good way. I can’t stop buying this Comme Si style, which is perfect in every way.

Reformation Inez Pumps

I suppose it’s debatable whether or not shoes can be considered a basic, but I’m going with the idea that they can. The Reformation Inez Pumps quickly went viral upon their release last fall, and Ref continues to release them in additional colors and heel heights. Trust me—they’re the perfect shoes for any and every outfit, all of which they instantly elevate. I own them in Espresso Eel and a burgundy calf-hair colorway that was released this winter, and I don’t think I’m stopping there.

J.Crew Cashmere High V-Neck Sweater

This is my favorite cashmere-sweater purchase of recent times, hands down. The high V-neck is so chic and forward, and the fit is perfect. I’d gladly own it in all seven colors. I’ll be wearing it draped over my shoulders when it’s not sweater weather this spring and summer.

Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Chino Baseball Cap

When it comes to the accessories version of a basic, a Polo Ralph Lauren baseball cap might be the most frequently worn item in my closet. I own it in winter colors, and I own it in summer colors. All of them make whatever outfit they’re paired with look preppy and a bit more expensive—in the casual-cool way that only a baseball cap can.

Posse Alice Linen Mini Dress

Last but not least is the perfect linen dress: the Posse Alice Linen Mini Dress. This square-neck mini (with pockets!) is classic and timeless yet feels on-trend no matter the year. The black and white iterations are a must, but keep your eyes peeled for the seasonal colors Posse tends to release.