Life Hasn't Been the Same Since I Added These 11 Special Basics to My Wardrobe

If someone were to ask me what my wardrobe primarily consists of, I'd say basics, without hesitation (and trendy accessories, but that's a topic for another story). I live in the South and work from home full time, so I just don't require a very fancy wardrobe on a day-to-day basis. A typical outfit for me consists of a handful of basics that I've worn multiple times in multiple combinations. Although I'm certainly guilty of it, one of my pet peeves is when I buy something and only wear it once or twice, so I really focus the bulk of my shopping budget on special basics that won't just waste away in my closet.

Having an easy time picking out outfits, in turn, makes life easier, and the only way I've found to achieve that is by stocking up on basics. The 11 I list below have really helped me avoid many of those dreaded "I have nothing to wear" days, and I presume they may help you too. Scroll on to shop the TK special basics I refer to as life-changing.

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

I love repurposing shirts as jackets, as you can see. This one is my latest obsession.

Shop the special basic:

Madewell The Perfect Vintage Military Shorts

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

These shorts are the perfect length, they're comfortable, and they're not denim. (I own an embarrassing amount of denim shorts.)

Shop the special basic:

Staud Simone Mules

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

These "heels" are such a great height, and they go with absolutely everything. I think I've actually walked for miles in them.

Shop the special basic:

Agolde Reese Relaxed Cutoff Shorts

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Speaking of denim shorts, this classic pair really stands out from the pack. Highly recommend.

Shop the special basic:

Ganni Cotton Poplin Cropped Shirt

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

I'm a sucker for non-basic white shirts. This one looks so cool on and goes with so many things.

Shop the special basic:

Gucci GG Patterned Socks

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Shop the special basic:

Almina Concept The Oversized Tencel Blazer

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Shop the special basic:

Le Specs Unreal Sunglasses

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Shop the special basic:

Wolford Memphis Thong Bodysuit

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Shop the special basic:

Birkenstock Arizona EVA Sandals

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Shop the Special Basic

Sporty & Rich Wimbledon T-Shirt

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Shop the special basic:

SHOP MORE OF MY FAVORITE SPECIAL BASICS

Next up, all the pieces your 2021 travel wardrobe should contain.

Allyson Payer
Senior Editor

Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.