10 “Boring” Fashion Basics Every Woman Needs to Own

We put our white tees through a lot—namely one too many sweaty summer days and accidentally adding them to a load of darks. At this point they look a little, um, yellow? Yeah, it’s time to pick up a few crisp new T-shirts and donate the old ones (or use them as rags).

Get the look: Everlane ($18); Hanes x Karla ($30); RE/DONE ($78)

Wearing knee-high boots with anything else is just a hassle. While you might be tempted to buy some cargo pants with your hard-earned money, add a new pair of universally flattering dark skinnies to the mix first. Trust. Oh, and even jeggings are back in (thanks, Covid), so there aren't any excuses.

Get the look: Good American ($159; $80); Joe’s Jeans ($198; $145); RE/DONE ($250)

True, blazers have gotten a lot cooler (and much bolder) in the last few years. But investing in a basic black style with impeccable tailoring will make any outfit look like it was selected by a professional stylist, whether IRL or via Zoom. Hot tip: spend a bit more for better quality that’s guaranteed to last.

Get the look: Halogen ($139; $56); WeWoreWhat ($248) Anine Bing ($349)

When was the last time you upped your cami stash? Exactly. We’ve had the same five on rotation since…we honestly don’t even remember when. Invest in a new one and every outfit will feel so much more put-together because of it (even if it’s hidden under a sweatshirt).

Get the look: Topshop ($20); Everlane ($75); Anine Bing ($149)

Our childhood memories of tights are scratchy and uncomfortable. As adults, we cherish their warmth on those first frigid days (ok and they’ve also gotten much softer since the ‘80s). In order to make it through this winter's extended outdoor dining situation, we're OK investing in a few new pairs to wear under jeans or on their own if it means (safely) spending time with friends without freezing.

Get the look: Spanx ($28); Commando ($38); Wolford ($61)

This is quite possibly the most versatile topper in our lineup. We wear it in spring and summer with sundresses and layer it over sweaters and under coats in fall and winter. Although colored versions come and go, a classic blue denim will stand the test of time.

Get the look: Levi's ($98); Madewell ($118); 7 For All Mankind ($238)

Wear it with skirts, pants, under dresses and with jeans—it actually goes with everything. A solid, neutral-hued version will quickly become your chilly-weather go-to, but a ribbed knit will also get just as much wear.

Get the look: Everlane ($35); Kotn ($39); Splendid ($60)

With the current slipper craze, it might seem silly to spend money on a classic pair of black boots. But there’s no denying their versatility for everything from grocery trips to those socially distant outdoor dinners we mentioned above. Steer clear of a too-towering heel, so you can wear these while waiting in lines without wanting to rip your feet off.

Get the look: Steve Madden ($130; $80); Sam Edelman ($170; $84); Vince ($395)

Is there anything more classic? We'll just tell you: Nope. A white button-down is one of those pieces that can make or break an outfit. Investing in a polished one means you can wear it to work and Tom Cruise style, alone in your house sans pants (that's how you know it's comfy!).

Get the look: Madewell ($80); Norma Kamali ($195); Frank & Eileen ($228)

We're not talking about the lounge leggings we've lived in for most of 2020. We mean opaquer-than-opaque black leggings that have the ability to make our legs look supermodel-long and leave us still feeling like we're wearing PJs, even if we're back in the office.

Get the look: Yummie ($50); Spanx ($68); Commando ($98)