10 Perfect Outfits You Can Create With Just the Basics
Not to play favorites, but basics are low-key the best things in my closet. If you ran into me on the street, there's a 90% chance that the outfit I'm wearing consists of only basics. After all, these staples more or less anchor my looks and have a keen ability to be easily mixed and matched with those more trendy pieces that pop up each season. While I love a more trend-driven item, I'm in a long-term relationship with my basics. So today, I'm skipping over those buzzier trends to discuss the outfit perfection that can happen when you pair a few elevated basics together in a forward way. Because, really, sometimes all you need to create an A+ fall 'fit are the classics, so let's go back to the basics, shall we?
Here, I’m talking about pairings like a timeless denim shirt and of-the-moment western boots or classic trousers with a trendier sweater vest. To showcase all of this further, I’m highlighting how fashion people are wearing some of my favorite outfit combos below. Keep scrolling for more. You’ll also find a smattering of inspired shopping picks in case you’re looking to add something fresh into your rotation.
1. Quarter-Zip Sweater + Leggings + Loafers
Since I know you might have been in need of some fresh styling ideas for your leggings. A quarter-zip sweater, especially a varsity-inspired striped one, is the perfect update for plain black leggings.
2. Denim Shirt + Jeans + Ankle Boots
We all have some double denim ensembles we pull out of our closets, don't we? Pair yours with western-inspired boots for a classic, but of-the-moment, take.
3. Racer Tank + Slip Skirt + Chunky Knit
Slip skirts are easily one of our all-time wardrobe MVPs—there's nothing more versatile. Build a simple look around yours by pairing it with a ribbed tank and ankle boots. A chunky sweater is an easy addition if you need another layer and we love the effortless way Sylvie tied hers.
4. Sweater-Vest + Relaxed Jeans + Chunky Boots
Instead of jeans and a tee, try a sweater vest as a top. It's just as straightforward but looks so much more current for the season. Extra points if you pair it with relaxed denim.
5. Blazer + Turtleneck + Belt + Flare Jeans
Jeans and a blazer—nothing new to see here. Transform the classic combo by belting the blazer to create a structured silhouette.
6. Trench Coat + Tank + Loose Trousers + Sneakers
Fall 2021 is all about relaxed tailoring. Try this comfy outfit consisting of wide-leg trousers and a trench coat when your sweats just aren't cutting it for a quick coffee run.
7. Crew-Neck + Miniskirt + Socks + Loafers
Loafers, socks, and crewneck sweatshirts may be plain basics on their own, but combine them with a pleated mini skirt and it gives the ultimate prep-school vibe.
8. T-Shirt + Sweater-Vest + Loose Trousers + Clogs
If we can't shut up about sweater vests right now, it's for good reason. They just add such a fresh spin to basic outfits. We love wearing one over a boxy T-shirt with trousers like so.
9. Blazer + Bright Knit + Straight Jeans + Loafers
Another can't-go-wrong ensemble with jeans and a blazer. Add some color into the mix when you layer the blazer over a bright sweater.
10. Blazer + Skinny Jeans + Bucket Boots
Where my skinny jeans stans at? If the slim-fit denim is your favorite wardrobe basic, then style them like so with a big blazer and bucket boots for a very 2021 spin.
Up next, Your Fall-Basics Checklist: The 7 Handiest Buys of the Season
Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.
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