15 Best Clothing Brands to Shop for Wardrobe Basics
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Although versatile clothing basics are the foundation of any wardrobe, many of us would rather shop for the latest micro trends and statement pieces. Curating the correct balance of bold and basic pieces is essential for building an amazing wardrobe. If you often find yourself with a closet full of clothes, yet have nothing to wear, then it might be time to add more core pieces to your wardrobe. Whether it’s a comfortable white t-shirt or a pair of jeans that fit you perfectly, these classic clothing staples will allow you to maximize your wardrobe and create a multitude of outfits.
Source: Eugenia Remark
To help you find everyday essentials for your closet, I’ve put together a list of the best brands to shop for wardrobe basics. While most clothing labels offer some range of basic pieces, these brands stand out for being high quality, contemporary, and relatively affordable. Continue reading for my top 15 basic clothing brands.
What Is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of essential pieces that are carefully selected to create a versatile and functional wardrobe. Curating a capsule wardrobe simplifies the process of getting dressed each day, streamlining your closet to include only items that you love and that suit your personal style.
The concept is all about quality over quantity, focusing on timeless, well-fitting pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a wide range of outfits. Capsule wardrobes are often organized by season and can be customized to suit individual preferences and lifestyle needs. It's a smart, stylish approach to fashion that emphasizes quality, versatility, and personal expression.
Read More: How To Build a Capsule Wardrobe in 2024
How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe
Creating a capsule wardrobe will allow you to spend less time getting dressed in the morning and create more outfits with fewer, versatile pieces. You’ll always look stylish and be prepared for any occasion without having to worry about what you’re going to wear. Here are a few ways to build a capsule wardrobe that works for you.
1. Assess Your Current Wardrobe
Before considering the items you want to purchase, assess the items that you already own. Spend an afternoon reviewing each piece in your closet. Donate or recycle the items that you no longer need in your wardrobe. Here are a few questions to consider during the process:
Does this item fit me?
Is this item in good condition (no holes, piling, etc.)?
Do I enjoy wearing this item?
Is this item versatile? Will it go with other items in my wardrobe?
2. Choose a Color Palette
A neutral color palette will allow you to create more outfits with fewer pieces, so opt for pieces in neutral colors such as black, white, camel, beige, gray, etc. These colors not only look elegant, but they’re easier to mix and match. Next, pick 1 or 2 accent colors to add personality to your capsule wardrobe.
3. Plan Before Purchasing
After reviewing your current wardrobe and choosing a color palette, you can now identify which pieces you should add to your closet to fill in the gaps. Start by exploring Pinterest and your go-to fashion blogs for outfit inspiration. Make a Pinterest board with your favorite outfits that you’d love to wear. It’s best to search for everyday outfits if you’re just getting started, but you could also add some formal and evening looks to your board. Then make a list of every piece needed to create those outfits and remove from that list any items that you already own. You’ve now determined the items you need to build your dream wardrobe.
It can be tempting to buy everything on this list at once, but it’s better to start by budgeting for the pieces that appear most frequently on your board and slowly curate your wardrobe. For example, if a trench coat is featured in several outfits on your board, then you might start by purchasing or saving for this item. Shopping for everything at once can be stressful and expensive, so try to enjoy the process and you’ll appreciate your capsule wardrobe even more.
4. Consider Shopping Secondhand
Creating a capsule wardrobe doesn’t need to be expensive. You can shop more affordable brands while also finding budget-friendly pieces by shopping secondhand. You’re more likely to score higher quality items without overspending. Several of the staple pieces in my wardrobe are actually from outlet and secondhand sites like TheRealReal.
15 Best Clothing Brands to Shop for Wardrobe Basics
1. Everlane
Everlane is the brand to shop for affordable, modern basics. The brand has gained a strong reputation for its commitment to transparency and ethical manufacturing practices. They focus on creating minimalist essentials with a modern twist. Their collection includes high-quality T-shirts, versatile denim, classic sweaters, and well-constructed outerwear. Everlane's pieces are known for their exceptional quality, affordable prices, and timeless aesthetics. I’m personally obsessed with their bodysuits, linen pants and silk shirts.
2. Quince
Longtime readers of my blog know that Quince is one of my favorite brands for easy, everyday staples. Their commitment to sustainable sourcing and fair pricing makes them a favorite among conscious consumers. From luxurious cashmere sweaters and silk blouses to comfortable loungewear and timeless outerwear, Quince provides wardrobe staples that are both affordable and long-lasting. Their focus on quality materials and timeless designs ensures that their pieces withstand the test of time. Don’t miss out on their famous $50 cashmere sweaters, one of my most beloved items from the brand.
Read More: 10 Best Affordable Brands for Building Your Capsule Wardrobe
3. COS
COS, short for Collection of Style, is renowned for its modern, minimalist approach to fashion. Their clean lines, quality fabrics, and attention to detail result in wardrobe basics that are both contemporary and timeless. COS offers a range of stylish essentials, including tailored shirts, well-cut trousers, versatile dresses, and statement outerwear. Their commitment to sustainability and durable construction ensures that their pieces are built to last. It’s my favorite brand to shop for minimalist must-haves.
4. Arket
Arket combines Scandinavian minimalism with functionality. Their focus on quality, sustainable materials, and craftsmanship is reflected in their collection of wardrobe essentials. Arket offers a range of elevated basics, including well-fitting jeans, organic cotton T-shirts, timeless knits, and versatile outerwear. Their attention to detail and commitment to longevity make their pieces perfect for creating a refined and contemporary wardrobe. I’m always adding knit sweaters, oversized blazers, and basic tanks to my shopping cart, but any of their high-quality essentials are definitely worth purchasing to build your wardrobe.
5. Warp + Weft
If you’re looking for affordable denim to add to your wardrobe, Warp + Weft has got you covered. The brand offers a wide range of well-fitting jeans for all body types. Warp + Weft's attention to detail and quality craftsmanship result in durable denim that retains its shape and comfort. Alongside their denim collection, they also offer other wardrobe essentials like tees, jackets, and loungewear, all made with the same level of care and style. The best part? All of their jeans are under $100, which means you can stock up on all your favorite jeans for less.
6. Uniqlo
Uniqlo is known for its affordable yet high-quality basics that cater to a wide range of styles and sizes. They excel in producing wardrobe staples that are functional, comfortable, and stylish. From their HEATTECH line for layering to their well-fitting jeans and versatile tops, Uniqlo offers a diverse range of basics at budget-friendly prices. I always stock up on basic white tees, as they’re my favorite weight and cut.
7. Mango
Among a mix of trendy and timeless pieces, you can find several high-quality staples to expand your wardrobe at Mango. Known for its trend-focused designs, Mango offers a range of wardrobe basics that incorporate current styles while maintaining a timeless appeal. From tailored blazers and classic shirts to versatile dresses and quality knitwear, Mango caters to a wide range of preferences. For classic items at low prices, check out their Essential Prices section. You’ll find affordable staples like button-down shirts under $35, basic sweaters under $40 and wide-leg trousers under $50.
8. Ninety Percent
For elevated basics, Ninety Percent is the responsible fashion brand you need to shop. This sustainable and socially conscious brand offers a range of wardrobe essentials, including well-crafted T-shirts, cozy sweaters, versatile dresses, and essential loungewear. Ninety Percent ensures that their pieces are made from sustainable materials and manufactured under fair working conditions, without compromising on style or quality. Check out their Wardrobe Essentials to build your minimal wardrobe.
9. AYR
AYR, or All Year Round, creates made-to-last basics for precisely that: pieces you can wear all year round. Breton-stripe tops, flared denim jeans and classic button-down shirts are a few of the basics brand’s bestsellers that you should consider adding to your closet. Although the brand is a more expensive one on this list, their clothing quality is also one of the best. AYR's attention to fit and quality materials results in wardrobe staples that are both timeless and chic, delivering sophisticated essentials for the fashion-conscious.
10. Italic
Italic is a unique brand that focuses on delivering high-quality wardrobe basics at affordable prices by cutting out the middlemen. They work directly with manufacturers who produce items for luxury designers, ensuring that their pieces are crafted with the same attention to detail and quality. Italic offers a variety of timeless essentials, from classic button-down shirts and tailored blazers to well-fitting denim and versatile outerwear. By prioritizing sustainable manufacturing and fair pricing, Italic makes luxury basics accessible to a wider audience, so you can score quality basics at a reasonable price.
11. KOTN
For comfortable, neutral loungewear that doesn’t sacrifice style, KOTN is the ethical brand to shop. Whether you need some everyday lounging staples or prefer sporting more casual looks, their range of effortless basics will make a stylish addition to your wardrobe. They offer a range of wardrobe staples, including soft cotton T-shirts, cozy sweaters, durable denim, and comfortable loungewear. Their attention to quality, detail, and sustainability makes them a trusted choice for conscious consumers. Basic tees and tanks as well as casual joggers should definitely be in your shopping cart.
12. Reformation
Reformation is a brand known for its commitment to sustainability and stylish designs. Their collection features ethically made wardrobe essentials crafted from eco-friendly materials. From their well-fitted jeans and flattering dresses to comfortable knitwear and classic blouses, Reformation offers a range of versatile pieces that are perfect for building a conscious and stylish wardrobe.
13. Banana Republic
Banana Republic is a well-established brand known for its classic and polished style. They offer a range of versatile wardrobe basics that effortlessly blend into any wardrobe. From tailored blazers and button-down shirts to well-fitting chinos and comfortable knits, Banana Republic provides a selection of timeless essentials that cater to a variety of styles. Their attention to quality and detail ensures that their pieces are reliable and enduring.
14. Cuyana
Cuyana is a brand that focuses on creating timeless essentials with a focus on quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Their collection includes elevated basics such as well-made T-shirts, tailored trousers, classic leather accessories, and refined outerwear. Cuyana's dedication to producing long-lasting pieces and their "fewer, better things" philosophy make them a top choice for those seeking timeless and sustainable wardrobe staples.
Read More: 8 Must-Know Brands for Building a Capsule Wardrobe
15. The Frankie Shop
The Frankie Shop is a brand that has gained a cult following for its minimalist and effortlessly chic designs. Their collection of wardrobe basics includes tailored blazers, high-quality denim, versatile trousers, and timeless tops. With a focus on clean lines and modern silhouettes, The Frankie Shop offers pieces that are both on-trend and timeless, making them a go-to brand for fashion-forward basics.
When it comes to shopping for wardrobe basics, these brands offer a diverse range of options that combine style, quality, and sustainability. Whether you prefer minimalist aesthetics, eco-friendly designs, or classic staples, these brands have you covered. From contemporary silhouettes to timeless pieces, these trusted names in fashion provide the foundation for a versatile and well-curated wardrobe. By investing in essentials from these brands, you can build a stylish and sustainable collection that stands the test of time, allowing you to effortlessly create countless fashionable looks.
What brands do you shop for wardrobe basics? Let me know in the comments below.
