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    We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed collects a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

    29 Stylish Basics You’ll Wear For Years

    As Taylor Swift says, "These will never go out of style."

    Abby Kass
    by Abby Kass

    BuzzFeed Staff

    1. A cotton button-down shirt you can dress up or down depending on the day while still feeling comfortable and cool, even if it's hot outside.

    Model wearing white shirt with sleeves rolled up
    Grayson

    Promising review: "This shirt was a little pricey, but the quality and fit are worth it. It has a beautiful drape to the material and is well made. It looks and feels fantastic on, and I will be buying more." —Htfdgirl

    Get it from Nordstrom for $74+ (originally $128; available in sizes 1-5) or a similar style from Amazon for $21.49.

    2. A pair of Chelsea boots designed so you can walk 500 miles (and 500 more) in them.

    Model wearing black Chelsea boots with a half-inch heel, rounded toe, elastic panel on either side
    Thursday Boot Company

    Promising review: "Everyone — EVERYONE — at the place I work wears some type of Chelsea boot, ranging from the flashy to the more functional. I wanted something that was both sleek and professional as well as sturdy for walking 40 min in the rain every day, and these shoes fit the bill perfectly! Time will tell, but so far they seem to be waterproof as well as slip-resistant. I normally wear a 7-7.5 and sized up to an 8. It's roomy enough for thick socks, but close-fitting enough without. No ankle-chafing either! I'm very pleased with these shoes!!" —Danielle

    Get them from Amazon for $160 (available in sizes 5-11 and in black, brown, and brown suede).

    3. An open cardigan you can throw on at night when it gets a little too chilly for whatever outfit you've decided to wear.

    Amazon, amazon.com

    Promising review: "I absolutely LOVE this sweater!! It’s light enough to wear in the spring, but heavy enough to keep warm in stores and restaurants. I love the extended length and the way it hangs without hugging.💞" —Carol Tyson

    Get it from Amazon for $22.65 (available in sizes XS-XXL and in black, dark grey, and light grey).

    4. A basic short-sleeve T-shirt dress to slip on in the morning when you don't feel like trying and just want to be comfortable...but still cute.

    amazon.com, Amazon

    Promising review: "I ordered this in red and in black. I love the way the dress is cut—even though the fabric is thin and it feels as though it would be clingy, it isn't. It hits that sweet spot between too tight and shapeless. I felt it was true to size. I tried on the black one for my daughter, and she gave it thumbs up." —DSP

    Get it from Amazon for $18.50 (available in sizes XS-XXL and in eight colors).

    5. A chambray shirt you can throw on with a skirt, black jeans, or even just blue jeans (hello, Canadian Tuxedo!) to have a sophisticated outfit with minimal effort.

    Model wearing button-down blue chambray shirt
    Madewell

    It is an oversized shirt, so if you want that look, go with your normal size. But if you want it more fitted, size down.

    Promising review: "The style and fit of the shirt are great. It's a great staple piece and so easy to wear. I feel like I'm going to get so much use out of this shirt. I'm usually a medium in Madewell clothes, but I ordered a small after reading other reviews, and it fits me perfectly!!" —JayneW

    Get it from Madewell for $49.50 (originally $75; available in sizes XXS-XXL) or a similar style from Old Navy for $20 (originally $29.99; available in sizes XS-XXL, S-XXL Tall, and in light and medium wash) or another for $31 (originally $32.99; available in 1X-4X).

    6. A pair of mid-rise skinny jeans that'll be your go-tos for basically forever. You simply can't go wrong with a great pair of blue jeans.

    Model wearing low-rise skinny jeans in blue
    Amazon

    Promising review: "This brand of jeans is well worth the price. They are so soft and exactly as pictured. I washed them alone first because the dark color tends to bleed. Every wash after that was fine, though. I feel like the more I wear them the more they mold to my body shape. The mid-rise is perfect and comes about an inch and a half under my belly button. I am 5-foot-3 and 140 lbs. I purchased size 30, and they are perfect. They didn't shrink when I washed them either. The legs are a little long for me, but that is just something I have always had to deal with. I basically refuse to wear any other type of jeans!" —Chelsea

    Get them from Amazon for $65.10 (available in sizes 25-32 and in eight styles) or a similar style also from Amazon for $24.99 (available in sizes 4-18, 4-18 Long, 4-18 short, and two styles).

    7. Bike shorts you can wear to work out — or just in your everyday life because they're super comfortable and match with everything.

    Model wearing the bike shorts that stop around mid-thigh in black
    Spanx

    I'm a huge fan of bike shorts, and these are one of my favorite pairs. They're super simple, but that's part of what makes them great. I put them on with whatever top I want, and I have an easy outfit. I've also workout in them, and they stay in place no matter what. I would wear these every day if I could.

    Get them from Spanx for $58 (available in sizes XS-1X and in two styles) or a similar style from Amazon for $23.99 (available in sizes XS-3X and in 26 styles).

    8. A fitted white T-shirt you won't have to worry about stretching out after a few wears. This baby will be with you for the long haul.

    Mott & Bow, Buck Mason

    Promising review (for the left): "I LOVE this T-shirt! I bought two, a V-neck and crew, and loved them so much I bought three more in different colors. I could never find a perfect T-shirt until now. The fit is perfect — not too tight but not too loose. The length is perfect, and they wash GREAT! They don't shrink, and the collars don't do that weird folding, wrinkling thing some T-shirts do. They literally wash and are exactly the same as how they were when you got them. I feel like this shirt was made for me. I LOVE it, and I never take the time to write reviews but that's how much I love these shirts. So if you're on the fence, just get one. I'm so happy with mine!!" —Jackie Z.

    Get the one on the left from Mott & Bow for $30 (available in women's sizes XS-XL and in six colors) and the one on the right from Buck Mason for $32 (available in men's sizes XS-XXL and in six colors).

    P.S. These were our high-end picks for The Best Women's White T-Shirt and The Best Men's White T-Shirt on BuzzFeed Reviews.

    9. A pair of Ray-Ban Aviators that have stood the test of time for a reason: they really are as great as people say they are.

    Ray-Ban Classic Aviators in green
    Ray-Ban

    Promising review: "These are the best sunglasses I have ever owned. I am super clumsy, and they never scratch or break. I will never own a different pair of sunglasses. I will only wear Ray-Ban." —Cianna17

    Get them from Ray-Ban for $123.20 (originally $154; available in non-polarized and polarized) or a similar style from Amazon for $10.99 (available in 17 styles).

    10. A classic trenchcoat you actually can't go wrong with. It will match with everything in your closet and make you feel extra chic when you put it on. Trust me.

    Amazon, amazon.com

    Promising review: "This was a fabulous purchase for the price!!!! It is a lovely quality and a great fit. I ordered the small for my very tall ten year old, and it fits with room to grow. She loves it. The look is timeless, classic, preppy. I love it so much I'm going to order one for myself. The blue is a gorgeous navy, very classic. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase and so is very picky, choosy trendy ten year old." —J. Bishop

    Get it from Amazon for $47.76 (available in sizes XS-XXL and in seven colors).

    11. High-rise black jeans so versatile and comfortable you may end up saying, "Leggings? I don't know them."

    Model wearing the black skinny jeans showing the high-waist and back pockets
    Madewell

    Promising review: "These jeans are amazing. They fit PERFECT, which is unheard of! I am 5-foot-11 to 6 feet and 140 lbs with a booty, and it's basically impossible to find high-rise jeans that are actually high enough on me, long enough, and cute, comfy and flattering. I bought the 26 taller and they are the holy grail of jeans. Thank you, Madewell for this inclusive sizing and fit. I am in love. I just ordered them in the Lucille wash too, and I will order them in more washes if you make them!" —KB30

    Get them from Madewell for $128 (available in sizes 23-37 and in petite, tall, and taller) or a similar style from Old Navy for $30+ (available in sizes 0-20 in short, regular and long and 16, 22-30 in short, regular, and long).

    12. Adidas superstar sneakers that have more than 22,000 5-star reviews raving about how amazing they are. Yes, you read that right — 22,000.

    adidas superstar shoes with three black stripes on either side
    adidas

    Promising review: "I have always loved these shoes. It's been a while since I've had a pair, but I am so glad I got these! The comfort with old charm style, cannot be beat!" —DEVS82

    Get them from Adidas for $85 (available in sizes 5-11 and in six styles).

    13. A denim jacket you'll find any excuse to wear because it'll go with basically everything you own.

    amazon.com, amazon.com

    Promising review: "I really love this jacket. It’s a bit more fitted than I was expecting, but that’s not a dealbreaker. It’s super comfortable, and I love the versatility. Color-wise, it’s a little darker in person than the pictures show." —Rebecca

    Get it from Amazon for $41.77 (available in sizes XS-XXL and in dark, medium, and light wash).

    14. A pair of black leggings that'll take you from your workout to meeting your friends for brunch. Honestly, we're so lucky that the athleisure trend is still going strong.

    Model wearing black leggings with hand in the right pocket
    Athleta

    Promising review: "These will go down in history as one of the best pair of leggings I have ever purchased. Be it burpees, squats or jumping jacks, these babies won't let you down. The fabric is like butter. I have two pairs and am beginning to get the eyebrow raise from the hubs as they are all I wear, in and out of the gym." —milesfromperfection

    Get them from Athleta for $98 (available in sizes XXS-XL, XS-XL Tall, XXS-L Petite in six colors and 1X-3X in black, plum, and brown) or a similar style from Amazon for $20.98 (available in sizes XS-XXL and in 19 styles).

    15. A jumpsuit to have on hand for nice occasions where you need to look nice, but still want to be comfortable all night.

    Model wearing the jumpsuit with a double-v neckline, wide legs, and a removable tie belt around the waist in olive
    Everlane

    Promising review: "I loved the fit and feel of this jumpsuit. I was able to dress it up for an evening event and received so many compliments. It's super comfortable too. I'm wearing it both with and without the belt for a different look. The jumpsuit is very flattering and am thinking of getting a second one in another color because I love it so much!" —Jannis R

    Get it from Everlane for $60 (originally $120; available in sizes 0-16) or a similar style from Amazon for $27.85 (available in sizes S-XL and in eight styles).

    16. A vegan leather jacket that I swear will instantly make you feel about 100 times cooler and more put-together the second you put it on.

    Amazon, amazon.com

    Promising review: "This is a really stylish moto jacket. I love dressing up an outfit by adding a little moto jacket to it." —RenataKostic

    Get it from Amazon for $86.58 (available in sizes XS-L and in five styles) or a similar style also from Amazon for $39.01 (available in styles XS-XXL and in 16 styles).

    17. A boatneck striped shirt with nautical vibes anyone can pull off, even if they're not on a boat.

    Model wearing three-quarter sleeved shirt in navy stripes
    J Crew

    Promising review: "This top is the best thing J. Crew has ever made and represents everything J. Crew should be: timeless, classic, and seasonless (OK, except maybe in full-on hot summer). I own this top in red, navy, and yellow, and it looks great with jeans or a little dressed up with some black pants and great jewelry. This top works well for any woman in any size, and it's super cute and super stylish. I hope J. Crew never stops making this top, ever." —maura

    Get it from J.Crew for $49.50 (available in sizes XXS-3X and in three styles) or a similar style from Amazon for $12.50 (available in sizes XS-XXL and in five striped styles).

    18. A bodycon dress you can wear in a dressy or casual setting, so it's always a good idea to have at least one at the ready in your closet when you just can't decide what to wear.

    amazon.com, amazon.com

    Promising review: "YES. This is a versatile tank dress. It looks like cotton but has a stretch. It's not shiny. The fabric isn't see-through, it's actually thick, soft and fuzzy inside like it's fleece lined. So if you're looking for something really thin for summer, you might want to keep looking. However, if you want something you can wear through the seasons and pair with boots sneakers or heels this is it. The fit is great. It's a great dress." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in sizes S-XXL and in 30 styles).

    19. A longline blazer designed to make any outfit feel super professional — yes, even just jeans and a T-shirt.

    Model wearing boyfriend blazer with one button closure and welt pockets on either side
    Amazon

    Promising review: "This jacket makes every outfit! It's a perfect jacket for every occasion." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $69.93 (available in sizes 0-10 and in black and navy) or a similar style also from Amazon for $31.32 (available in sizes 12 Plus-32 Plus and in five styles).

    20. A short-sleeved shirtdress in a classic style you can throw on when you want something timeless to wear.

    Model wearing woven-fabric shirtdress with marbled buttons down the front, an adjustable tie waist, and pockets
    ModCloth

    Promising review: "I love this dress. The length and fit are perfect. It's a little bit roomy, but you can't tell when you tie the belt. It is definitely something I can see myself wearing on a regular basis, plus the cut and style are classic." —First grade teacher

    Get it from ModCloth for $69.99 (originally $79; available in sizes XS-4X and in black, white, and yellow).

    21. A pair of oversized gold hoop earrings — even Gretchen Wieners would approve if you wear these every single day.

    Model wearing the oversized hoops face to the side to illustrate the size, which is about the same diameter as a cup
    Madewell

    Promising review: "These have a hundred percent become my go-to earrings — they're somehow both a statement and a basic. They have gotten a tiny bit scratched over the past month or two, but it's not very noticeable, and I haven't noticed any other quality issues." —gracie11

    Get them from Madewell for $28 or a similar style from Amazon for $13.95 (available in two sizes and tose gold, white gold, and yellow gold).

    22. A classic LBD to keep in your closet for whenever you need a look that will help boost your confidence a bit and accomplish whatever you need to get done.

    Model wearing scoop neck tank swing dress
    Amazon

    Promising review: "This dress was exactly what I was looking for! I love it. It hit me right at my knees, so if you are taller than me it will definitely be shorter on you. It’s lightweight but not see-through. I wore black undergarments and was fine. The armholes are a little bigger, so if you are not wearing a jacket or sweater over it just be aware there is a possibility of your bra showing. I wore a denim jacket over mine. You can definitely wear it for dressy or casual. It’s perfect!" —Kristin B.

    Get it from Amazon for $20 (available in sizes XS-XXL and in 15 styles).

    23. A cross-body tote you can toss the essentials in (phone, wallet, keys, lip blam) without worrying about weighing down your shoulder.

    Model wearing cross-body purse with front flap over their shoulder in brown
    Nisolo

    Promising review: "I really love my new Clara cross-body purse. It’s the most expensive purse I’ve ever owned, but the craftsmanship is impeccable, I know it will last for many, many years. The size is perfect. It forces me to carry only the essentials. I love the magnetic closure. It makes getting into the purse easy but still feels secure when closed. The outside pocket on the back is perfect for holding my phone and makes it easier to get to than storing it inside the purse. This is truly an excellent purse." —Candace H.

    Get it from Nisolo for $158 (available in dark brown, tan, and black).

    24. A ballet flats perfect to slide on and add a finishing touch to any outfit, knowing that your feet won't hurt at the end of the day.

    amazon.com, amazon.com

    Promising review: "The quality of this shoe has far exceeded my expectations. I love the fit and the classic look of the black and nude/camel. I will definitely be repurchasing." —Kirstin

    Get them from Amazon for $19.50 (available in sizes 5-15, 5-15 wide and in 15 colors).

    25. A one-piece swimsuit that'll make you feel like a million bucks the minute you slip it on.

    Model in deep v-neck one-piece bathing suit in black
    Summersalt

    Promising review: "I own a ton of cheap suits and decided to 'splurge' on this one after reading all the great reviews. So glad I did! This suit is comfortable and just a little sexy. I felt great on the beach and in the water. I now consider this to be an investment instead of a splurge, and I will definitely buy from Summersalt again." —Krystal B.

    Get it from Summersalt for $95 (available in sizes 2-14 and in six styles) or a similar style from Amazon for $32.99 (originally $34.99; available in sizes XS-XXL and in 14 styles).

    26. A dress with the classic style Diane von Furstenberg perfected for a reason: a wrap dress makes you feel confident and ready to take on whatever comes your way.

    Amazon, amazon.com

    Promising review: "This is by far one of the best dresses I have gotten from Amazon. Lark & Ro hit this one out of the park. It's beautifully made, has nice details (hidden modesty button), great fabric that is nice and smooth, and is heavy enough to skim the body and lay nice and smooth. This is a great dress to go from office to cocktails. It looks great alone or with a blazer for cooler weather. I will be getting another two or three in different colors because when something works THIS well, you stick with it. Thanks, Amazon! This takes all the stress out of getting myself ready for work, a big meeting, etc. It's confidence in a dress!" —Carmason

    Get it from Amazon for $39 (available in sizes XS-XL in 28 colors and patterns and 1X-5X in 12 colors and patterns).

    27. A pair of Birkenstocks that prove that being comfortable and cute *is* possible.

    Model wearing Birkenstock footbed sandal with two side buckles across the top in metallic silver
    Nordstrom

    Promising review: "I don't think it's possible to go wrong with Birks, and these are no exception! The soft footbed is my favorite. The color is gorgeous and works with so many things. I can dress them up or down." —MichelleK317

    Get the ones above from Nordstrom for $134.95 (available in European sizes 36-42 and in four styles) or a similar rubber version for $44.95 (available in European sizes 36-41 and in silver, black and white).

    28. A bomber jacket to add the finishing touch to any outfit. Seriously. You'll find yourself reaching for this basically every single day during spring and fall (and maybe even summer or winter, depending on the weather).

    Model wearing bomber jacket with contrast zippers on side pockets and elastic around the neck, sleeves, and waist
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I love this jacket — it's light and comfortable, and it's perfect for mild weather. It's exactly what I wanted, and I really recommend it!" —JJC

    Get it from Amazon for $59.99 (available in sizes XS-XXL and in 12 styles) or a similar style for $31.99 (available in sizes S-XXL and in nine styles).

    29. A pair of Spanx faux leather leggings with thousands of 5-star reviews because they really are THAT comfortable and worth it. You might end up wearing these at least once a week.

    Abby Kass / BuzzFeed, Nordstrom

    Promising review: "I finally did it! After eyeing the pants for quite some time and reading reviews, I purchased. These fit true to size for me based on the size chart. Like most fitted leggings, they take some effort to get on, but they are not too constricting for more "casual" wear. I prefer to wear a less form-fitting top. They style well with white sneakers or boots. A wardrobe staple in my opinion." — MEDShopper

    Get them from Nordstrom for $98 (available in sizes XS-XL and 1X-3X) or a similar style from Amazon for $29.14 (available in XS-4X and in three styles).

    The queen of basics applauding your choice to invest in great pieces:

    BBC Sport

    Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

    Looking for the perfect gift for any occasion? Check out all of BuzzFeed’s gift guides!

    Illustration of gifts
    Allison Krausman / Via BuzzFeed

    Want more? Check out our favorite online clothing stores for all your shopping needs, perfect places to shop for clothes if you’re in your 30s, plus the best places to order custom t-shirts online and the best clothing stores for petite sizes. Still not satisfied? Check out all of our clothing content for even more.