24 Wardrobe Essentials You Can Buy Now and Wear Forever

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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

01
Best Tops For Women
amazon.com

Best Tops For Women

Mangopop Scoop Neck Bodysuit ($25, originally $38)

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 styles, 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.

02
Best Tops For Women
onequince.com

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.

03
Best Tops For Women
oldnavy.gap.com

Best Tops For Women

Old Navy Cropped Tube Top ($13, originally $15)

Love them or hate them, tube tops are officially back and predicted to trend big this spring. We love the effortless and relaxed look of this fitted Old Navy piece, which seamlessly hugs the body and is available to shop in a variety of colors — though this poppy orange shade is definitely a favorite. Read all about the staple piece in this review of the Old Navy Cropped Tube Top.

04
Best Tops For Women
www2.hm.com

Best Tops For Women

H&M Cotton T-shirt ($6)

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 baby blue coloring of this cropped T-shirt is so fresh and can be worn in any season — though we really love it for spring.

05
Best Tops For Women
zara.com

Best Tops For Women

Zara Striped Satin Effect Oversize Shirt ($46)

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 stripe 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.

06
Best Tops For Women
www2.hm.com

Best Tops For Women

H&M Rib-knit Tube Top ($18)

Tube tops are one of the best wardrobe basics because the style can make you look polished and put-together — even with minimal effort. The classic tube top gets a serious upgrade through this version's rib-knit composition and relaxed silhouette. Complete the elevated look with a pair of matte leather pants or even a slip skirt.

07
Best Tops For Women
madewell.com

Best Tops For Women

Madewell Wrap Thong Bodysuit ($50)

This comfortable bodysuit is great in that you can style it in so many ways. On its own, tucked into jeans, or even under a sweater vest for a more layered look. It's the closet basic that will keep on giving. Bonus: it even comes in several colors, too!

08
Best Tops For Women
nastygal.com

Best Tops For Women

Nasty Gal Long Sleeve Poplin Co-Ord Shirt ($22, originally $54)

From the lustrous fabric to the relaxed silhouette, there's something undeniably chic about this button-down top. We love it paired with boyfriend jeans or even matching trousers, but it will look just as good with a slinky slip skirt or a longer pair of Bermuda shorts, too! Plus, the top boasts so much styling opportunity, too. You can wear it alone or opt for an unbuttoned look and pair it on top of a breezy white tank.

09
Best Bottoms For Women
abercrombie.com

Best Bottoms For Women

Abercrombie Ultra High Rise 90s Straight 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.

10
Best Bottoms For Women
onequince.com

Best Bottoms For Women

Quince Cashmere Sweatpants ($100)

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. It is 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.

11
Best Bottoms For Women
nordstrom.com

Best Bottoms For Women

Topshop Raw Hem Crop Straight-Leg Jeans ($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.

12
Best Bottoms For Women
www2.hm.com

Best Bottoms For Women

H&M Joggers ($25)

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.

13
Best Bottoms For Women
nordstrom.com

Best Bottoms For Women

AG Mari High Waist Crop Jeans ($210)

These cropped jeans will grant you instant cool status with their laidback look and crisp, white coloring. Whether you're styling the bottoms with classic black boots, loafers, or even open-toed mules, they can truly go with everything in your closet. Bonus: they are biodegradable, too!

14
Best Dresses For Women
nordstrom.com

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 sandy brown coloring isn't your preference, this cool wardrobe basic is also available to shop in black and hot pink colorways.

15
Best Dresses For Women
www2.hm.com

Best Dresses For Women

H&M Tie-belt Shirt Dress ($30)

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.

16
Best Dresses For Women
asos.com

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.

17
Best Dresses For Women
everlane.com

Best Dresses For Women

Everlane The Organic Cotton Weekend Tee Dress ($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 any woman's closet.

18
Best Basic Layers For Women
cozyearth.com

Best Basic Layers For Women

Cozy Earth Quintessential Cashmere Cardigan ($490)

Building a new wardrobe with long-lasting pieces takes time, but if you're willing to invest, styles like this luxurious cardigan can live in your closet for the long term. Pair the basic layer with a cropped T-shirt or tank for a relaxed outfit you'll want to cozy up in all spring long. One POPSUGAR editor even called it her "unofficial work-from-home uniform" in this review of the Cozy Earth Quintessential Cashmere Cardigan.

19
Best Basic Layers For Women
nordstrom.com

Best Basic Layers For Women

Open Edit Blazer ($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.

20
Best Everyday Shoes For Women
allbirds.com

Best Everyday Shoes For Women

Allbirds Canvas Pacers Sneakers ($89, originally $110)

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.

21
Best Everyday Shoes For Women
nordstrom.com

Best Everyday Shoes For Women

Birdies Starling Flat ($98)

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.

22
Best Staple Accessories For Women
cuyana.com

Best Staple Accessories For Women

Cuyana Easy Tote ($248)

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.

23
Best Staple Accessories For Women
asos.com

Best Staple Accessories For Women

ASOS Design Frame Round Sunglasses ($14)

While fashion trends may come and go, we find that sunglasses are a true wardrobe staple we can always rely on. These particular frames are so versatile and minimalistic, making them a great style to have for the longterm. We love the chic and simple design of the accessory. And they're also compact enough to fit within a mini handbag, clutch, and more.

24
Best Staple Accessories For Women
amazon.com

Best Staple Accessories For Women

Dreubea Soft Faux-Leather Tote ($13, originally $20)

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.