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Caret Right

· Posted 4 hours ago

31 Wardrobe Basics You’ve Probably Been Meaning To Buy For A While Now

Nothing better than smashing “buy” on an item you’ve been thinking about for a long time and are just so stoked about.

by Rachel Dunkel BuzzFeed Contributor

I am a former editor and contributor to the BuzzFeed shopping team with over seven years of experience testing and recommending products that help make life a little easier, whether that’s ultralight gear, holy grail serum, jeans that fit just right, or anything in between.

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Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

1. A pair of pleated trousers because yes, you ARE the kind of person who can pull these off like nobody's business. With a bodysuit, button-up, band tee, puffy coat — the list goes on and on — these collab or contrast with everything you already have in your closet.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I absolutely love them. I went back and forth for a long time trying to decide to buy them, and I’m so happy I did! I got a size large for comfort, and they are super comfy. Good quality and gives a modern office look! Very quickly have become my everyday office pants, and I will be buying more colors ASAP!" —Bailey

Get them from Amazon for $18.90+ (available in sizes XS–XL, including three inseams, and 64 colors).

2. Relaxed denim shorts you'll be grateful you have, ummmm, every single day now that the sun is finally out again. Get your favorite band tees, button-ups, and tanks ready. They all have a new bestie. 

Lane Bryant

Get them from Lane Bryant for $74.95 (available in sizes 12–40). 

3. A simple, perfect button-up shirt that can make you feel put together in an instant, I promise. Red lip, ballet flat, and a few buttons undone up top, and you're ready to take on the world. 

Madewell

Promising review: "I love Madewell's button-down cotton shirts and have many. This is my newest acquisition, and the color is perfect. I wear these button-down shirts almost every day. They always look neat and classic." —Love Madewell

Get it from Madewell for $69.99+ (originally $88+; available in sizes XXS–3X and 12 colors).

4. An off-the-shoulder top, because a good "going-out top" is always a great addition to the collection. Dinners, dancing, you name it, you can wear this there and serve. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "It’s stylish enough to wear to a nice dinner but cute enough to wear to the bar. It makes me feel more put together, but idk I love it. It fits well, I use it for a complete off-the-shoulder shirt, and it fits over both shoulders too." —Alejandra

Get it from Amazon for $19.89+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 25 colors). 

5. Some super classic Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses that have been the ultimate go-with-everything sunnies since they first launched in 1952. Talk about a summertime staple and beyond. 

Ray-Ban

Get them from Ray-Ban for $191+ (available in 19 colors, customized color combos, and with Polarized lenses). 

6. A high-neck bodysuit to serve as the base of any and all summer 'fits from here until eternity. Layer with simple jewelry on warm days or long-sleeve shirts and cardigans at night when it's chilly. It's a slay either way. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "It took me a couple of tries to get the sizing right, but eventually I got it. This fabric is like a swimsuit fabric. It's stretchy and silky. It is not cotton. I prefer this type of fabric because it feels nice against the skin and looks sleek (no wrinkling). I plan to wear these with jeans, shorts, or jogger pants. I loved it so much, I purchased it in black and white. (White is a bright white, not ivory, so that's good!) It's trending right now and has a really great price point. Buy it, you won't be disappointed!" —Anonymou5

Get it from Amazon for $13.47+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 12 colors). 

7. A '90s trucker jacket because few things in life spark joy quite like having a denim jacket you truly adore. Especially once you break it in, it'll be a layer you can't remember life without. Note to self to write a love poem about my own denim jacket. I love it that much.

Levi's

Promising review: "It’s absolutely spot on! Love the trucker jacket. It’s definitely baggy as I wanted. I’m glad I didn’t go a size up, as I am normally an 8/10 who wears small, but when I want baggy, I size up. This time I picked a small and I am glad I did. It’s baggy enough, no need to size up, and it’s a great look that pairs nicely with whatever fashion and weather. I even paired it with my African print jumpsuit; you should see me rocking it. I’ll definitely recommend." —Fruity

Get it from Levi's for $110 (available in sizes XS–XL and four washes) or for $89.95 (available in sizes 1X–4X and two washes). 

8. A T-shirt dress you'd be remiss not to add to your closet now, ahead of the extra hot weather coming. Never brave summer without one of these babies in your arsenal, lest you wish to be plagued by humidity and much less breathable fabrics!

Old Navy

Get it from Old Navy for $9.99+ (originally $19.99+; available in sizes XS–4X, including tall and petite sizes, and six colors). 

9. A pair of TikTok-viralcargo pants if you're ready to go beyond your requisite jeans and trousers to mix your wardrobe up. A little streetwear twist is just what you need to kick your style into high gear. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I love these so much. The material is not thin, so it’s a good buy. The adjustable string at the waist and the ankles give it a perfect fit, and these pants can be worn with many outfits. I wanna say they can be worn year-round because they’re thick enough for colder weather. They’re perfect for spring. I’ve been looking for a camo print cargo, and these are definitely going to be a staple in my closet. Can’t wait to get it in more colors!" —Vicara J.

Get them from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in men's sizes 27–44 and 49 colors).

10. A bra-free ribbed tank whose shelf bra and pads make it possible to go braless all day without feeling super duper exposed. Life's too short to be constantly poked by underwire. And for days when you just want a rad tank, the pads are removable!

Abercrombie & Fitch

I'm a 34DD and skeptically tried one of these on in-store after a friend sang their praises. And my friend was right! These are great, even for bigger boobs! The more you know.

Promising review: "Bra free for the win!! I am so happy with this new style. The bra is so great, and the material is high quality." —Sarah

Get it from Abercrombie & Fitch for $25 (available in sizes XXS–XXL and 12 colors). 

11. A pair of New Balance 574 sneakers because the dad sneaks look is still alive and kicking. And thank goodness! They're comfy. They're classic. They're your new signature shoe.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I love these sneakers. They’re really comfortable, feel durable, and hold up well with regular wear. They also go with so many outfits, not just for working out but also for casual everyday looks. Definitely a great staple sneaker to have." —Stephanie

Get them from Amazon for $78+ (available in sizes 5–12, wide sizes, and in five colors). 

12. A boxy cotton sweater that'll be your new go-to whenever you want to feel cozy without feeling weighed down. Cotton sweaters are my favorite because you can find a reason to reach for them in every season, and they wash up great.

Everlane

Promising review: "The fit is slightly oversize but falls beautifully. The dropped shoulders feel modern but still classic and add to the lovely shape. Love the ribbing on the sleeves. Gorgeous quality jumper which I know I will wear a lot!" —lucy f.

Get it from Everlane for $65+ (originally $108+; available in sizes XXS–XXL and 13 colors/patterns). 

13. High-rise wide-leg cuff jeans so you finally have a go-to pair to love until the end of time. Well-worn jeans are as essential as a best friend. Hold them close, treat them well, tell them how pretty they are!

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These jeans are fabulous!! The length in the photos is at the original cuffed length. If you need something really long to wear with heels, they can be unruffled, but they have a great tall cuff to be worn with flats." —Eclectic E

Get them from Amazon for $25.86+ (available in sizes 00–20 and three washes). 

14. An Italian wool blazer because you never know when you're going to need to go business mode, or better yet, when you'll need to go high-low. My summer style challenge to you is to style this with denim shorts. Come on, I know you, of all people, can pull it off.

Banana Republic

Promising review: "I got the blazer and matching trousers in navy blue, and they both look and feel amazing! I am 155-cm tall, and the petite 0 for both blazer and trousers fit perfectly." —Lena L

Get it from Banana Republic for $298 (available in sizes 0–18, including petite sizes, and three colors). 

15. Blundstone Chelsea boots known for their versatility, durability, and undeniable cool factor. This particular style has a slightly square toe for even more of a statement. All of my most iconic friends have a pair and swear they're worth the splurge. Just thought you'd want to know. 

www.amazon.com

Note: Blundstone half sizes refer only to width, not length.

Promising reviews: "Great quality boots. I’m several years in in the second pair. They last about a decade with heavy wear. Versatile boot, can be dressed up if needed. Prefer this squared-off style to the standard rounded-toe model." —Tundra

"I absolutely love these boots. I bought them a year ago, and I really haven’t stopped wearing them since. Perfect for New England weather. They are casual and perfect for the weekends but can dress up enough for work. They are so comfortable, even though I usually find boots pretty restrictive. I get so many compliments on them!" —K

Get them from Amazon for $162.47+ (available in women's sizes 6–15/men's sizes 4–13 and in six colors). 

16. A ruffle skort so you can flounce, dance, and twirl about without worrying about propriety. And just when I didn't think those things could get any better!

Torrid

Promising review: "Love this skirt! It's the perfect length and has built-in shorts. It goes with everything. It bought two colors! Super comfy. Fits true to size." —LEONURSE08

Get it from Torrid for $20.99+ (originally $49.90; available in sizes M–6X and five colors/patterns). 

17. Afour-pack of half-calf vintage stripe socks so your drawer is packed with much more than the hum-drum ankle socks you've been rocking for a decade. Live a little! Go for some color and some stripes.

Bombas

Promising review: "They are the best socks. I’ve been wearing them for five years. They don’t stretch out. Wash and dry well. Fits to your feet. They don’t bunch up anywhere. Makes the shoe more comfortable." —Deborah F.

Get them from Bombas for $55 (available in sizes S–L and three color packs). 

18. Longline denim shorts to finally try the trend if you haven't already. I call my pair my "long boys" and couldn't recommend them more highly for anyone who's never really felt comfortable in short shorts but still wants to lean into a true summer look. Voila!

Gap

Promising reviews: "New summer staple. First time wearing jorts and I had the outfit already planned — it looks as amazing as I envisioned it! highly recommend!!" —Zulema Z

"I just got these in the mail and ran to the reviews because I am beyond happy with this purchase! I'm a size 30 in most jeans. I shy away from brands or lines that aren't specifically curvy lines because normal jeans/bottoms have ginormous gaping on me in the waist. I did not have that problem with these shorts and couldn't be happier! I've been searching high and low for this wash and length. These are perfect and 100% cotton too, which is a huge plus for me. Thank you Gap for making these mid-size/curve-friendly. < 3" —Rosie B

Get them from Gap for $34+ (originally $69.95; available in sizes 24–34, including tall and petite sizes, and three washes). 

19. Birkenstock Arizona sandals that have iconically incredible arch support and look stylish with any and all summer looks — two things we should all value immensely. I finally invested in a pair last year and can honestly say I wear them every day for everything from lunch meetings in LA to camping to just taking the trash out.

Zappos

I never really "got" the whole Birks thing. Even after getting a pair, I was like....mmk, waiting to love them! But once I made myself wear them more and they truly started molding to my feet? Now I can't imagine my life without them. So comfortable and cute. Granted, I have the hard-soled version, so I can't speak to the softness of the sole here (I'm a glutton for punishment and a lover of all things good-for-feet), but even the straps broke in and truly feel like a part of my own foot. Well worth the splurge, I'll have these for the next decade at the very least. 

Promising review: "I’ve wanted these Birks for YEARS, and I finally took the plunge. These are my go-to sandals for everything and a fashion staple, too! The soft bed really does conform to your foot’s natural stride, and they are so cute with skinny jeans, tights, shorts, and even casual summer dresses. If you’ve been on the fence about getting these, wait no more. You will not be disappointed. I used the size conversion and ordered the recommended size 37 for a 6.5 foot, and they fit like a charm. Thank you, Zappos for making purchases so quick and seamless!" —Anonymous

Get them from Zappos for $154.95 (available in sizes 5–12.5, narrow and regular widths, and four colors). 

20. A ruched midi dress in stretch cotton-blend poplin, so you have the perfect dress on-hand for nice dinners, work soirées, and other elevated events where turning the fancy dial up just a touch is the way to go.

J Crew

Promising review: "Perfect dress. I'm 5’4" and bought the XXS. Could’ve definitely gotten the XS for eating food and stuff. But the dress is perfect. Fits like a glove, my measurements are 34, 27, 35. All cotton, which is the best. Love it." —Madsrods

Get it from J. Crew for $178 (available in sizes XXS–4X, including petite and tall sizes, and in an indigo print). 

21. A stunning one-piece swimsuit so you never have to think "Do I have a suit?" the next time you're invited to a pool party or a last-minute getaway. You DO have a great suit, and its "tugless" stay-in-place design means you can stroll up with confidence.

Lands' End

Promising review: "I wore this suit today for the first time at an indoor pool for laps. I usually have issues with a pucker around the top of my leg, and this one fit me better than any suit I have purchased." —SandyT56

Get it from Lands' End for $82.99 (originally $84.95; available in sizes 2–18, with straight, D, DD, or DDD cups, and 16W–26W, with plus, DD, and DDD cups, as well as petite and long torso sizes, and in 11 colors/patterns).

22. Mejuri hoop earrings that are as classic as it gets. You'll be rocking them every day because of their effortless and lovely look, but also for their comfort, thanks to a tube construction that cuts their weight. Mejuri just does things right.

Mejuri

Promising review: "These hoops are the perfect size for me. Super comfortable to wear and great quality. Couldn’t be happier w my first purchase!" —Jeannie N.

Get them from Mejuri for $138+ (available in 18k gold vermeil or sterling silver). 

23. A tiered maxi skirt for living your cottagecore dream while staying as comfortable as possible. Time to twirl your heart out.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I live in these skirts!! This is the third one I've bought, each one a different color, and I can be sure that I will be buying more. I literally live in these skirts nearly every day. They are so easy to dress up, wear casually, or dress up for cosplay!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 14 colors). 

24. An iconic Boat and Tote bag to give your nearest and dearest belongings a nice little home. Opt for a tiny version to use as an alt everyday purse or a larger one to use for the beach, weekend trips, and beyond. Chic either way. 

LL Bean

Promising review: "Classic, chic, and durable. Wears like a tank. Never goes out of style. Iconic, American-made, and at a reasonable price. What more could you ask for?" —Anonymous

Get it from LL Bean for $32.95+ (available in sizes S–XL, in regular or long handle styles, and in 12 colors). 

25. A bow mini dress that has just enough pizzazz via the two ties in the front to keep things spicy while still being a dress you can reach for all the dang time. Life is about balance, right?

Loft

Promising review: "I really like the fit and look of this dress. It is comfortable yet very stylish." —Ptdoodle

Get it from Loft for $41.97 (originally $69.95; available in sizes XXS–XXL, including petite sizes, and three colors). 

26. A stacking set of three coin pendant necklaces because sometimes all an outfit needs to get over the line from "good" to "great" is the metallic pop you get from your fave everyday accessories. These stack perfectly, but each have their own clasp so you can mix and match how you like.

Nordstrom

Promising review: "I love this set and have basically worn it every day since it came. I love that they’re individual, so you have lots of options on how to wear them. They’re so pretty and great quality." —Jennshell

Get it from Nordstrom for $60.

27. A mini dress with a simple silhouette but big, fun details like the large pointed collar and ruffles along the hem that prove once and for all that "basics" don't have to be boring.

Lisa Says Gah

Promising review: "The dream dress! I loved this dress so much I had to buy it again in black (already own in white). The fit is so cute, the fabric is amazing, and it's just so well made. It looks great on, and I just love it!" —CJ

Get it from Lisa Says Gah for $148 (available in sizes XS–3XL and two colors). 

28. A buttery-soft crewneck T-shirt because sometimes a basic tee is just the thing to get you and your OOTD out the door in a casual, quick kind of way.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This is basically the Skims Fits Everybody Tee, but better, in my opinion. I will be ordering this in lots of colors; it’s already a staple in my wardrobe. Material is double-lined, buttery soft, and still breathable! I'm obsessed with it and would give it 6 stars if I could." —Mar Cozza

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 15 colors).

29. Rothy's Daily Flats that are comfy as can be out of the box, flexible, and — perhaps most famously — washable so they can look good as new, even after you wear them every day all season.

Rothy's

Promising review: "I’ve lost count of how many pairs of Rothy’s there are in my closet. They are my favorite shoes. This is my first pair of the new flats. I was concerned they wouldn’t fit as well as all my other ones, but they are even more comfortable than the original version. If you love the original flats, you will love these too. I have wide feet, so I size up a half size, and they are perfect." —Diana F.

Get them from Rothy's for $99 (available in sizes 5–13 and nine colors/patterns). 

30. A, or should I say, THE Moyen Messenger Bag from Clare V. to seriously upgrade any and every look you pair it with. Available in smooth leather or a range of truly unique woven varieties, there's one for every style. I got this bag recently, and boy oh boy does it make me feel wonderful. Casual but elevated, it's constructed so well that I both want to treat it like an art piece but know it will survive whatever I put it through. Love.

Clare V.

I'm obsessed with this bag. I know it's a major splurge, but it really is a great pick if you're looking for an investment piece that'll be with you for a long, long time. It's been YEARS since I had a true purse. Of course, I had little nylon bags and totes, but a nice leather one? Dream on. Just wasn't my style for a bit, but the time off also made me appreciate how good it feels to have a bag I really love. I love the removable long and short straps and keep both on just because they look rad. I have keychains on the thing, clip my keys to the outside, and overall treat it pretty casually, knowing no matter what I do, it'll look chic. It just gets more bendy and cool the more I use it, and I can't wait to fully break it in over the years. It holds my books, notebooks, and even small water bottles with ease and carries well even when heavy. A nice bag isn't the make or break of your life, but if you're thinking of a splurge soon, I highly recommend this staple. 

Get it from Clare V. for $445+ (available in 11 colors). 

31. And finally, a must-have basic oversize hoodie because when trendiness meets the utmost comfort, we should all thank our lucky stars and lean in.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This is easily one of the comfiest hoodies I’ve ever worn. Lightweight but warm and cozy. I love it and will be getting a second one in another color." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes 3XS–5XL and tons of colors). 

Still looking for the perfect wardrobe update for *y-o-u*? Try these:

* Bathing Suits To Get You Excited For Summer

* Model Alert: These 27 Pieces Will Make You Force Your Friends To Take Dozens Of Pictures Of You

* If You Buy These 31 Pieces Of Summer Clothing Now, The Price Per Wear Will Be Pennies

* Just 31 Pieces To Wear On Your Next Night Out

* Fashion Pieces Reviewers Say Are Must-Haves…So You Don’t Want To Miss Out

* Clothing Pieces So Great, You’ll Want — Nay, Need — To Own Them In Multiple Colors

Plus, finds from Amazon, Abercrombie, Anthropologie, Athleta, Banana Republic Factory, Bloomchic, Free People, J.Crew, Lane Bryant, Lululemon, Madewell, Nordstrom Rack, Old Navy, Torrid, and Walmart. 

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Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.