I hear from some of you that the most basic-basics don’t get worn all that often. Maybe you’re over the regular reminders to buy a tee shirt or the most basic of pants, and find that you never reach for those items because they are, well, boring. Instead, you want to find essentials that are also elevated and interesting and versatile without being basic.
That’s where this list comes in. While you would consider every one of these pieces essential, with the exception of one of them, they are not basics in the classic sense of the world. They are better-than-basics. They allow you to take staple, versatile pieces and infuse your own personal style and preferences in them so that you can create outfits that look just like you and not like everyone else.
When you find these better-than-basics, and the style speaks to you and they fit and they check all of those boxes, you will find that these are the pieces you will wear over and over again, all spring and summer long.
We’re not just talking about any-old item in these categories. I want you to hold out for your next favorite items, the go-tos you will reach for over and over again because they fit and flatter and check all the boxes for you. Don’t settle for items that are just ho-hum in these categories or they’ll never become your go-to’s!
Everything in this video is available here.
You can shop all of these pieces right here.
White Jeans
As with each of these categories, the point is not to find just any pair of white jeans. It’s to find the perfect pair of white jeans. And this is what a perfect pair of white jeans looks like in 2024:
- Straight, wide leg, or flared at the hem
- NOT tight or skinny
- Opaque
It also helps if you stitch down or cut out the front pockets for a smooth and flat look.
Here, based on extensive research and feedback from members of the Nada Manley Style Community, are the best pairs of white jeans. You can shop all of these pieces right here.
Pretty White Top
Not basic, but also not too busy, the key here is to find a pretty white top that is versatile yet interesting enough to stand on its own. You can shop all of these styles here.
Light Jacket
I’ve covered these extensively in a recent post, but the most versatile light jacket for summer is a simple cropped or waist-length style in a light neutral.
Versatile Dress
You’re looking for the one dress you could take with you on every trip, because it goes from sightseeing to dinner with a switch of accessories. The most versatile dress styles are simple slipdresses and shirtdresses in fabrics that can be dressed up and down with ease. You can shop all of these right here.
Special Event Dress
Every woman needs a special event dress hanging in her closet so that she is ready for the next occasion when it arises. The tip here is to buy it when you find it, not when you need it. These two are both versatile and chic. You can shop all of them right here.
Linen Pants
I’m not talking about breezy and semisheer beach pants here, but a tailored style in linen that can be dressed up or down. You can shop all of them right here.
Sleeveless Top
A cami or a sleeveless tank is a perfect layering piece, or a sleek style to wear on its own. Look for fresh new styles like flattering compression tanks and camis made of linen.
Shorts
The only potentially optional item on this list (replace with another pair of pants or another flowy skirt, if these are not your thing), I believe that every spring wardrobe needs a pair of tailored shorts in a light neutral as well as denim shorts. Here’s what to look for.
- Mid-thigh length
- Tailored but not baggy and not tight
- Not short and tight or long and loose
Linen Shirt
It’s the quintessential staple, and versatile because it can be worn as a jacket, a shirt, and a coverup. There is a linen shirt for every budget. You can shop several right here.
Flowy Skirt
A breezy skirt in linen, cotton, or eyelet is a great alternative to shorts and pants. Just as breezy, but often way more flattering. You can shop them right here.
Which of these items is now on your shopping list? And which are already go-to’s in your wardrobe? Let’s discuss in the comments!
Nada Manley says
Thank you so much Lola! I’m so glad you found it helpful!
Lola McDermott says
LOVE this list Nada. Every piece is something I would find easy to wear.