I Thought Buying These 18 Basics Was Boring, But I’m So Glad I Did It

If I had to take a wild guess, I’d say I’m not the only fashion fan among us who would rather purchase a pair of fun statement shoes than another white T-shirt or pair of black pants. But many pairs of statement shoes and white T-shirts later, I’ve realized that even if I paid an arm and a leg for that special piece that no one else will have, it’s the less-than-exciting wardrobe basics that have become my most loved pieces.

Now, that said, I’m not saying by any means that Gucci loafers or Reformation jeans, for example, are boring. But in general, black loafers and jeans are everyday necessities (in my opinion) as opposed to luxuries (e.g., that lavender fur–trimmed coat that I probably won’t feel quite as passionate about next season).

So, why am I sharing all of this with you? Over the past several years, I’ve come across a number of pieces that may not have been my most thrilling purchases, but I don’t know how I could have lived without them. I can now say with confidence that you should be very excited to buy them, because you’ll probably wear them all the time, too. Keep scrolling to find out why these 18 basics are so very special.

The latest It sneakers these are not, but unlike all of my other sneakers, I wear these multiple times a week. They’re crazy-comfortable and lightweight, and they magically make black leggings look even more flattering. Available in sizes 5 to 12.

This is my holy-grail white T-shirt. It’s slouchy without being sloppy, and it’s perfectly cropped. Additionally, even when it’s brand-new, it’s so soft that it feels like you’ve been wearing it for years. Available in sizes XS to L.

I’m obsessed with Reformation jeans, and this is the very first pair that I purchased. It’s got the perfect cropped flare, and I’m not surprised in the least that the style keeps selling out. Available in sizes 23 to 31.

Gucci is far from boring, but as far as the brand goes, these loafers are as basic as it gets. And since I invested in them, I’ve worn them more than any other pair of shoes I own. They’re hands down the most comfortable shoes in my closet. Available in sizes 34 to 42.

I don’t consider myself much of an overalls person, but these Madewell ones are the exception. These plus a T-shirt and sneakers or sandals are one of my essential spring uniforms. Available in sizes XXS to XXL.

This was my first piece from our collection at Target, and I’ve yet to find a more flattering pair of black pants—so I stopped looking. Available in sizes 2 to 26W.

I love crazy sunglasses, but I’ll never part with my round Ray-Bans. They’re timeless yet cool, and I find myself mindlessly reaching for them more than any other pair in my collection.

I confess to having more denim jackets than one person needs in my closet, but this one is my favorite by far. The slightly oversize fit is perfection, and the jacket works for every season of the year (as a third piece during the warmer months and as a layering piece during the colder ones). Available in sizes XS to L.

Since I live in the South, shorts are a necessity. And unlike my stack of cutoff denim shorts, these are polished enough to wear out at night (especially if a pair of mules and a blazer are involved). Available in sizes 00 to 12.

This has been my go-to bra for years. It’s pretty yet functional. I try to force myself to expand my undergarment horizons, but if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? Available in sizes 30A to 38B.

I recently snagged these heels on sale and am so glad I sprung for them. I’ve found them to be the perfect shoes to transition between seasons, and they’re just as suitable for a fancy dinner out as they are for the office. Available in sizes 36 to 41.

The exact A.P.C. striped tee that I own is sold out, but this one is a very similar vibe. These French-made tees are made of heavyweight knit, and they look so cool tucked into a pair of high-waisted jeans. I feel like a true Parisian when wearing mine. Available in sizes XS to XL.

I recently realized that I didn’t own a basic black belt, and this is the one I decided upon. It’s under $50, could pass as vintage, and goes with everything. Oh, and you can even get it monogrammed. Available in sizes XS to L.

Black coats are not the most fun, but this Ganni one vaguely resembles a teddy bear, which is always a good thing in my book. It’s also super cozy, and I get tons of compliments on it. Available in sizes 34 to 40.

I quickly realized I had discovered the perfect carry-on duffle after using this bag for the first time. I bring it on every trip, it’s proven to be durable and lightweight, and it holds a ton of stuff.

I’ve tried plenty of black leggings in my day, and while many come close, these are my favorites, which is proven by the fact that I wear them on a weekly basis. They come in 11 shades, and I want them all to be mine.

I added this to my growing collection of winter accessories this season, and I’m not sure how I survived the cold without it. It’s so warm and versatile.

Everlane cashmere sweaters are affordable enough to stock up on. And despite being rather thin, they’re surprisingly warm. Consider this another thing I’d like to own in every color.

The moral of this story? There’s a good chance that your least exciting purchases will end up being your most worn ones, so don’t let the boring factor keep you from making smart purchases.

This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Up next, the rare designer bag that’s flying off the shelves.

Source: Who What Wear – Allyson Payer