18 Wardrobe Essentials You Can Buy Now and Wear Forever
We all have dressy days, but if we're being honest, our go-to wardrobe consists of elevated basics that we can style for any occasion. A tank top for a quick coffee run, a button-down shirt for office parties, and casual blue jeans because everyone needs at least one pair. We tend to gravitate towards this style because they take the guesswork out of getting dressed and figuring out what to wear — ensuring we're comfortable and still somewhat stylish as we navigate our daily social calendar.
With these closet essentials, you'll always have something professional to wear for an unexpected Zoom call or an outfit that's semi-dressy enough for a planned reunion with friends. You can get a lot of mileage out of these versatile and durable wardrobe classics, so rest assured, the investment will pay off for a long time.
If you're currently building your assortment of essential clothing must-haves, ahead, see some basics we swear by for easy dressing. From fitted T-shirts and faux-leather pants to oversize blazers, comfortable sneakers, and timeless everyday tote bags, these are the best wardrobe essentials for women to invest in this season. Keep reading to find your new favorite basic.
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— Additional reporting by Laura Lajiness and Shelcy Joseph
Best Tops For Women
Mangopop Scoop Neck Bodysuit ($20)
A fitted bodysuit is one of those closet staples that never go out of style — and for good reason. You can pair this with a variety of different clothing items, from high-waisted jean shorts and maxi skirts to chunky knit cardigans and so much more. This Amazon bodysuit is a particular favorite among our editors, as it's a bestseller for the retailer, and features more than 10,000 reviews from shoppers raving about the style's stretchy, breathable material and a body-hugging fit. Learn more in this review of the Mangopop Scoop Neck Bodysuit.
Editor Quote: "When I saw that this Mangopop Square-Neckline Long-Sleeved Bodysuit had more than 6,000 five-star reviews, I added it to my cart immediately, and I'm so glad I did. The elasticity is flawless and makes for the most perfect fit. It's tight and form-fitting but hugs in all the right places. I love the square neckline, and the long sleeves make it the perfect pairing with jeans for fall." — Renee Rodriguez, staff writer and social producer
Best Tops For Women
Quince Cashmere Crewneck Sweater ($50)
When it comes to building out a classic wardrobe with timeless fashion essentials, we'd argue that cashmere is one of the most worthwhile pieces to have incorporated into your closet — just like this affordable style from Quince. The high-quality sweater is designed to last, thanks to the piece's luxurious, cashmere composition. You can feel good knowing that you'll get extended wear out of this staple wardrobe piece season after season. Read all about the must-have basic in this Quince Cashmere Loungewear review.
Editor Quote: "Quince's quality loungewear styles are great for anyone who (like me) loves the luxurious feeling of cashmere, but doesn't necessarily love the expensive nature and upkeep that comes with owning these types of pieces. Both the crewneck sweater and joggers have the same softness of a traditional piece of cashmere — I compared them with a few of my other, more high-end styles and discovered little to no difference in the feel of the material — and yet, they're both available to shop at a fraction of the cost of other pieces." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Commerce
Best Tops For Women
H&M Cotton T-shirt ($9)
This wardrobe basic is the type of top you can slip into for virtually any occasion and still look put-together. There's a certain polish to the silhouette that works for everything from coffee runs to afternoon drinks with your girlfriends. Plus, the classic white coloring of this cropped T-shirt is so fresh and can be worn in any season — though we really love it for spring.
Best Tops For Women
Zara Structured Multipositional Shirt ($30, originally $90)
This button-down shirt is so soft and easy to throw on, you'll wonder where it's been all of your life. The satin top has a lightweight feel, and the polished mesh detailing elevates it with a sophisticated flair, making it a practical layer that every closet needs. We'd pair this with black faux-leather pants and open-toed mules for an outfit that can take us from day to night.
Best Bottoms For Women
Abercrombie Ultra High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean ($90)
These timeless Abercrombie jeans will amp up any look, whether you pair them with an asymmetrical top, a cropped sweater, a fitted blouse, or even a figure-hugging bodysuit. They are professional enough for daytime work meetings, as well as after-dark parties. Read all about the editor-loved pant in this Abercrombie Jeans review.
Editor Quote: "If you're looking for versatile jeans that are on trend and comfy, this is the right style for you. If you prefer ultratight skinny jeans, this style is probably not for you. I also want to point out that if any details of these particular jeans don't speak to you, the brand offers several different waist rises and styles for whatever your preference is." — Macy Cate Williams, former content director, Commerce
Best Bottoms For Women
Quince Cashmere Sweatpants ($100, originally $188)
Cashmere sweaters might get all the hype, but as far as we're concerned, cashmere joggers are just as much of a wardrobe essential — especially if you work from home or just love stocking up on quality-made loungewear. These bottoms are crafted from a plush, Mongolian cashmere material that's soft to the touch, easy to keep clean, and durable enough to live in your closet for the long term. Learn more about the pant in this Quince Cashmere Loungewear review.
Editor Quote: " If you value having comfortable styles incorporated into your wardrobe that are designed to last and don't cost a fortune (the real selling point here!), you really can't go wrong with investing in Quince's cashmere loungewear." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Commerce
Best Bottoms For Women
Topshop Raw Hem Crop Straight-Leg Jeans ($30, originally $74)
If you work from home, jeans might seem like less of a fashion must-have these days — after all, your colleagues will only see your top half if your days are spent on Zoom calls and virtual meetings. But if you want a trendy and flattering pair for casual Friday, opt for these comfortable jeans from Topshop. We love the light wash and raw cuffs that convey a cool urban edge.
Best Bottoms For Women
H&M Joggers ($15)
The slouchy silhouette of these joggers makes the relaxed style a perfect match for comfy days. Everyone needs a pair of cozy sweatpants in their closet that they can easily pull out and sport around the house, while running their weekly errands, or even just while working from home.
Best Dresses For Women
Skims Ribbed Long Slipdress ($78)
This body-hugging dress makes for a classic one-and-done solution to getting dressed in the morning. The ribbed stretch will ensure you feel comfortable, while the silhouette makes it easy to put on or take off. It also feels quite timeless with its effortless drape and breezy scoop neckline. If the gray coloring isn't your preference, this cool wardrobe basic is also available to shop in black and cobalt blue colorways.
Best Dresses For Women
Atavant Casual Button-Down Shirt Dress ($19)
Meeting the parents or heading out for an interview? This long-sleeve style will convey confidence, femininity, and easy elegance — regardless of the occasion or dress code. We love the versatility of this sleeved midi dress, and the piece is so timeless, we're confident it will be a style you can keep in your closet for the longterm.
Best Dresses For Women
ASOS Design Ribbed Scoop Neck Midi Tank Dress ($23)
This midi dress feels both romantic and modern. It's designed with flexible straps so you can achieve the perfect fit. Dress it up with sparkly shoes and a statement evening bag or dress it down with casual sneakers and a breathable denim jacket for the chicest daytime look.
Best Dresses For Women
Everlane The Organic Cotton Weekend Tee Dress ($25, originally $50)
This effortless frock just screams comfort, and we can already tell this is a style you'll be reaching for over and over again — regardless of the season. Pair the T-shirt dress with everything from knee-high boots to chunky platform sandals and more. We have a feeling this will be a seasonal must have in anyone's closet.
Best Basic Layers For Women
Open Edit Blazer ($45, originally $75)
This breezy basic makes a serious case for the modern work wardrobe with its long and slouchy silhouette yet polished look and feel. Give your everyday lineup an instant upgrade with this versatile piece. We'd style the colorful blazer with a pair of faux-leather pants or trousers for the most elevated office ensemble.
Best Everyday Shoes For Women
Allbirds Canvas Pacers Mids Sneakers ($48, originally $120)
Few things are more versatile than a classic pair of white sneakers, and this canvas style from Allbirds even has the POPSUGAR editor seal of approval. These everyday sneakers are made from an organic cotton material that's sleek and easy to keep clean, so you won't have to worry about them dirtying too easily. Need further convincing? Read through our Allbirds Canvas Pacers Sneakers review for more details on the product.
Editor Quote: "Unlike some of the brand's other athletic styles, the Pacers certainly aren't meant to act as a long-lasting running or outdoor shoe, but that doesn't make them any less comfortable or durable. Whether you're anticipating a busy travel season, navigating an especially long work commute, or just needing a go-to sneaker to wear however and whenever, the Allbirds Canvas Pacers will make the perfect addition to anyone's wardrobe." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Commerce
Best Everyday Shoes For Women
Birdies Starling Flat ($98-$185)
You can never go wrong with investing in a classic pair of black flats — they're just so timeless. We love the appeal of this structured style from Birdies, because the slip-on shoe is easy to throw on and sure to be a mainstay in your wardrobe for years to come. Did we mention Meghan Markle has also been a longtime fan of the brand? Read all about the style in this Birdies Slippers product review for further proof on why the comfortable flat is such a must have for women.
Editor Quote: "I'm telling you honestly, these well-made flats are worth every penny. I'm already contemplating my next pair. I appreciate that they're effortless enough to wear around the house but chic enough to rock for a party. Did I mention Meghan Markle wears the loafer style on the regular? Yep, they're royal-approved." — Macy Cate Williams, former content director, Commerce
Best Staple Accessories For Women
Dreubea Soft Faux-Leather Tote ($15)
Throw all of your accessories into this soft tote bag, even when you're running out the door, and prepare to be on your merry way. The laptop tote is squishy, totally affordable, and doubles as a great work accessory that you can carry on your daily commute.
Best Staple Accessories For Women
Cuyana Easy Tote ($268)
This oversize tote bag comes from a Meghan Markle-loved brand, so you know that it's good. The large accessory has a hybrid silhouette that's both soft yet structured, and it's available to shop in several chic colors. Bonus: the leather bag is also a POPSUGAR editor-favorite, as detailed in this Cuyana Easy Tote product review.
Editor Quote: "The deep style boasts plenty of interior space that's capable of holding everything from a school binder and work laptop to a reusable water bottle, wallet or cardholder, travel beauty bag, staple pair of sunnies, and so much more (even all at once!)." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Commerce
Best Staple Accessories For Women
Ray-Ban Rb3025 Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses ($177, originally $221)
While fashion trends may come and go, we find that stylish sunglasses are a true wardrobe staple we can always rely on. These particular frames are so versatile and minimalistic, making them a great accessory to have for the longterm. We love the chic and simple design of the frames. And they're also compact enough to fit within a mini handbag, clutch, and more. See the full product details in our review of the Ray-Ban Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses.
Editor Quote: "These are the sunglasses that look good on everyone for every occasion. They're polarized, so they actually protect from the sun, and they manage to be both sporty and polished. I wear them to work out, to run errands, to go out to eat, you name it, and they always look good. They're never out of place, and plus, I've never met someone who looks bad in them. I see my Ray-Bans like a great T-shirt or a classic pair of jeans; I'm always going to have them in my life." — India Yaffe, former associate editor, Commerce