Ask any fashion person about the key to an amazing wardrobe and you'll hear a resounding endorsement of quality closet staples. Some call it a capsule wardrobe, and some use the term basics, but essentially, it's a collection of items that act as the building blocks of your wardrobe. Items like T-shirts, jeans, blazers, and trousers fall into this category—pieces that can be worn over and over again, year after year. Each can be paired with more trend-forward finds as the years go by but will never go out of style.
There are countless brands offering these types of pieces, but fashion people stick to a select few they know will offer both quality and style. Each creates staple items that feel timeless and modern at the same time. Below are the eight brands—from the NYC label everyone gets their blazers from to the heritage denim brand that's guaranteed to fit to perfection—fashion people turn to for quality closet staples.
ANINE BING
On Lorna: Anine Bing Rosie Sweater ($599); Prada Leather Tote ($2590)
One scroll through Instagram will confirm the fashion crowd's collective love for Anine Bing. Full of timeless pieces with modern twists, the brand feels luxe and thoughtful. From structured blazers to vintage-feeling denim to everyday sandals, this is your one-stop shop for quality staples you'll keep in your closet for years.
NEW BALANCE
On Aimee: New Balance x Staud 574 Sneakers ($120); Dior bag
While many heritage sneaker brands have had a major resurgence in recent years, New Balance takes the top spot among the fashion crowd. Its sneaker range feels retro and fun, making them the perfect addition to any outfit. Whether you go classic gray or pops of color, New Balance offers equal parts comfort and style.
THE FRANKIE SHOP
On Emili: The Frankie Shop sweater
If you love oversize blazers, chances are you're familiar with The Frankie Shop. A minimalist's dream, this NYC-based brand offers luxe-looking staples you can build an entire wardrobe around. From chic suiting to cozy knits, these pieces are the epitome of effortlessly cool.
SOURCE UNKNOWN
On Pia: Source Unknown Low-Rise Trousers ($88)
Meet the under-the-radar brand every fashion person is secretly shopping. Source Unknown is full of amazing staple pieces that still feel unique. With new styles arriving weekly, the brand has a flair for adding modern twists to classic pieces (and at wallet-friendly price points to boot).
SKIMS
On Jill: Skims Essential One Shoulder Bodysuit ($68)
To say Skims has exploded onto the fashion scene would be an understatement. Fashion people are officially obsessed—and for good reason. Skims offers über-comfortable staples in soft fabrics, beautiful colorways, and inclusive sizing. If you're looking for new T-shirts, bodysuits, or loungewear, this is your go-to.
CLYQUE
On Jen: Clyque West Bodysuit ($70)
If you're looking for the perfect bodysuit, look no further. Clyque offers sleek, modern, elevated bodysuits and dresses that act as the building blocks of your wardrobe. Virtually every outfit can be built around its pieces, which is just one of the reasons it's a hit among the fashion set.
LEVI'S
On Anouk: Levi's Ultimate Western Denim Shirt ($50)
When you think jeans, you think Levi's—it's a no-brainer. One of the most recognizable brands in the world, it has been offering high-quality denim for over 100 years and is still creating new silhouettes fashion people can't get enough of. Whether you go vintage Levi's or brand-new, you already know these jeans are going to be an absolute staple in your wardrobe.
BEC + BRIDGE
On Emmanuelle: Bec + Bridge Veronique Maxi Dress ($350)
Australian label Bec + Bridge is the epitome of effortless, offering everything from timeless yet trendy dresses to perfectly tailored trousers. It's also a go-to for wedding guest dresses and offers extended sizes in most pieces.
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