Your closet has seen trends come and go, but the basics - that perfectly worn-in white tee, your trusty blue jeans, and go-to nude flats - are forever. You can rest assured that these key pieces will never go out of style or lose their street-chic appeal. Simply put: they’re the building blocks to the perfect wardrobe. So whether you’re looking to start over or simply wish to update an old favorite, shop these picks now.

 

 

Perfect White Tee

It doesn’t get any more classic than a white t-shirt. The best styles are super soft and have a relaxed, lived-in fit. A crewneck cut is a no-brainer, but I also like a V-neck style because it’s a little sexier and the perfect canvas for layering necklaces.

 

 

Skinny Jeans

Fit and wash are everything here. Go for a slightly high-rise style to give the illusion of longer, slim legs and stick to a true blue wash that will go with everything.

Crewneck Sweater

During the more brisk months of fall and spring, a lightweight knit is your best friend. Layer it over a collared blouse during the week, then swap in a pair of boyfriend jeans for the weekend. My advice? Have several in different colors.

Black Pumps

When it comes to shoes, black pumps are perhaps the most reliable and versatile option. At once sophisticated and sexy, they’re perfectly suited for almost any outfit and occasion.

Bright Cross-Body Bag

For all those times when a tote bag is too big and a clutch is too small, the cross-body bag is just right. In an attention-grabbing color, the portable handbag packs a (stylish) punch.

White Button-Down

Ask not what you can do for your white button-down, but what your white button-down can do for you. The answer is this: add a crisp polish to both your work and off-duty uniform.

Pencil Skirt

The good news about the pencil skirt is that it’s moving out of office-only territory. I love the piece after-hours paired with a slinky silk cami or t-shirt.This piece looks best in more calm colors, but if you're a color freak a bright one works as good.

 

Leather Jacket

Go ahead and splurge for this outerwear essential: I promise the investment will be worth it. For one, you can wear it year round, and two, leather jackets only get better with age. Go for a classic black or be more daring with a white or red one.

Menswear-Inspired Watch

An oversized, masculine watch adds interest to pared-down pieces both at the office/school and afterwards. It  can also double as a bracelet when layered with additional jewelry.

Wrap Dress

Diane von Furstenberg is celebrating 40 years of her emblematic wrap dress - you can see the “Journey of a Dress” exhibition at LACMA in Los Angeles now (if you're lucky to be there) - so you can be sure this is a silhouette that will stand the test of time.

 

 

 

Nude Flats

When you need a break from your heels, a nude flat serves as the ideal substitute. Straddling the line between dressy and casual, this functional footwear style is just at home with a pair of tailored trousers as it is a floral sundress. Choose a bit more interesting model to take your style to the next level, with a pair of scalloped flats like the ones below.

 

Sunglasses

Bright, dark or colored frames, they're all equally cool and offer a great touch to any outfit, no matter the season.

 

 

Ankle Boots

The suede ankle boot has been a must-have ever since Isabel Marant released the now infamous Dicker boot. With countless versions available, finding a heel height, cut, and color that suits your style is easy.