My 55-Year-Old Mom Says These Brands Make the Best Basics
Remember when I made my mom share her take on the best fashion items worth investing in? Not surprisingly, her advice was a hit you all (just as it’s been for myself and my sisters all our lives), which is why I figured I'd pry some more intel out of her on a new topic. This time, the woman of few words but much good taste (whose name, by the way, is Shirin) gave us the scoop on her favorite brands for buying basics—a topic which, actually, seemed quite fitting, seeing as I also have an affinity for the simple yet crucial wardrobe staples.
Nonetheless, from Gap and Zara to Chanel and Proenza Schouler, she’s got something for the under-$100 shoppers, the investment buyers, and, of course, those who are somewhere in the middle. To see and shop all 12 of the brands that made the cut, just keep scrolling.
Under $100
J.Crew
Nike
Like everyone, my mom is a big fan of Nike's simple (and affordable) sneakers.
Gap
Today I learned that Gap has the softest tanks and pajamas, most of which can typically be found on sale.
Zara
Like mother, like daughter. The woman loves a good Zara find—namely, their tees, sandals, and trousers.
Investments
Ralph Lauren
Proenza Schouler
Sounds specific, but apparently Proenza Schouler really excels in the white tops category.
Chanel
According to my mom, "a Chanel tweed jacket is a basic"—and I'm not mad at that.
Armani
If you're looking for a good pair of pants to invest in, Armani is her pick.
Somewhere in the Middle
Mother
These trending pleated jeans would be my pick, while the classic pair below would be my mom's/
Vince
Theory
Frame
Up next? Four surprising summer trends these London girls are into.
Since starting as an intern back in 2013, Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour has held several roles here at Who What Wear, and she is currently Editor-at-Large. It was a less expected route, seeing as she was graduating from business school at USC when this all began, but it has turned out to be the best one for her. Fast-forward to 2020, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was an intern starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to classic pieces and neutral basics but will always make an exception for something colorful, printed, or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a good party is dressing up for one. On weekdays, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious for dinner and trying to force her husband to watch 90 Day Fiancé.
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