The foundation of every wardrobe should be a handful of essentials that can be worn season after season. These are the basic wardrobe essentials that are versatile, practical and have usually stood the test of time.
Read on to learn about the top 10 fashion basics and streetwear must-haves that no year-round wardrobe is complete without.
1. Cami
The foundation of any year-round wardrobe is a simplistic and practical camisole, or cami. Worn alone or layered, camis are both sensible and stylish. The fact that they also easily transition from season to season makes them a streetwear must-have. In spring or summer, silk camis can be dressed up with a flowy midi-skirt for a fresh and feminine look. In autumn and winter, they can be layered under a blazer or chunky knit to keep warm while staying stylish.
2. Striped tee
When it comes to classic and timeless fashion basics, there is perhaps no piece more iconic than the striped tee. Although they were first worn by Breton sailors in the 19th century, it appears the striped tee is here to stay. Whether paired with jean shorts for a casual summer streetwear look, or with tailored trousers for the office, the stripe tee is as versatile as it is classic.
3. White button down shirt
No list of basic wardrobe essentials could be considered complete without a white button down shirt. While a white button down may evoke images of preppy kids or business execs, they can actually be worn across a spectrum of styles – and in a myriad of ways. You could button one up for a tailored look. Or you could tie a knot at the front and pair with jeans for a more relaxed outfit.
4. Cardigan
A knit cardigan is the quintessential year-round wardrobe piece and streetwear must-have. Whether you would describe your personal style as bohemian, polished, casual or chic, you can’t go wrong with a good cardigan. You can go with a more form-fitting one for a tailored look, or a loose and chunky cardigan for a more laid-back look. Cardigans can be worn over a tee for cool summer nights, or layered under a jacket for frigid winter days.
5. Sweatshirt
Sweatshirts are cool, comfortable and cozy. Need we say more as to why they’ve made the list of essential fashion basics? While sweatshirts may have originally been designed as practical sportswear, they’ve evolved over the years – and have even been seen on runways. You can pair a sweatshirt with jeans for a comfy weekend outfit. Or, wear a button down underneath for a more polished look.
6. Tailored Trousers
If you want to look instantly put-together, putting on a pair of tailored trousers will do just that. Whether pleat or no pleat, tapered or wide-leg, tailored trousers come in an array of different styles. Tailored trousers are also great for transitioning from day to evening. You could pair them with a tee for a daytime streetwear look, or throw on an evening top and statement jewelry to go out on the town.
7. Classic Jeans
Jeans are perhaps one of the most ubiquitous articles of clothing and streetwear must-haves. Worn by everyone from cowboys, to supermodels – and even to presidents, there are few people who can say they haven’t donned a pair of denim jeans. And what’s not to love about them? They’re comfortable, versatile and durable. But with all the different colors and styles of denim out there, the trick is to find ones that fit well and flatter your body type.
8. Midi-Skirt
Between the playful mini-skirt and the breezy maxi-skirt, you’ll find the midi-skirt – a year-round fashion basic. With a hem hitting at around the knee or calf, midi-skirts can easily transition through all seasons. In fall or winter, they can be paired with knee high boots. And in spring or summer, they can be styled with flats or sandals. Midi-skirts are versatile, flattering and oh so feminine.
9. Little Black Dress
The little black dress, or LBD, isn’t just for Audrey Hepburn to wear while portraying Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffanys. In fact, the little black dress is a streetwear must-have and fashion basic. We love a more casual and comfortable LBD that can be worn to the office under a cardigan, to a casual weekend brunch, or for a stylish rendezvous.
10. Light Jacket
A light jacket, such as a denim or leather jacket is a basic wardrobe essential. For those in-between temperatures where it’s too warm for a coat, but too chilly for just a shirt, you’ll be glad to have a light jacket. However, they aren’t just for practicality – they’re for style as well. Both a denim jacket and leather jacket are not only fashion basics, but two symbols of cool that make them both a streetwear must-have.
