These 9 Basics Make My Outfits Look Rich, So I Bought Them in Multiple Colors

As someone who's been working as a fashion editor for the past twelve years, it's safe to say that I'm pretty discerning when it comes to wardrobe basics. With all of the options on the market these days, there's no reason to settle for clothing and accessories that you don't love and want to wear often. The flip side of that is there's also an overwhelming number of wardrobe basics on the market to choose from, so when I find something I really love, I tend to be quite loyal to said item.

I was sifting through the contents of my closet recently, and found that I owned more basics in multiple colors than I'd even realized, and they all had something in common: They add an expensive-looking element to any outfit they're added to, for one reason or another. If you ask me, buying something and then going back to buy it in additional colors is a true testament to how great it is.

So, in case you're curious about what expensive-looking wardrobe basics a picky fashion editor buys in multiple colors, keep scrolling to shop my staples along with me.

Leset Nando Tee

I own more T-shirts than I care to admit, but more often than not, the one that ends up complementing my outfits best is the Leset Nando tee. It's extremely well-made (as all Leset items are), and if fitted without being too fitted. Trust me—order it. It's a keeper.

LESET

Nando Slim Fit Tee in White

Leset

Nando Slim Fit Tee in Ciel Melange

LESET

Nando Slim Fit Tee in Black

Levi's 501 '90s Jeans

If you're looking for the perfect pair of vintage-like straight-leg jeans that won't do damage to your clothing budget, your search can stop here.

Levi's

501 '90s Straight Leg Jeans in In Love With You

Levi's

501 90s Jeans in Ecru White

LEVI'S

501 90's Lightweight Straight Jeans in Deep Rinse

Reformation Carolina Skirt

Basics don't have to be boring, and this skirt proves it. It can be styled in a multitude of different ways, and dressed up or down. And the fact that Reformation keeps releasing it in different colors proves that it's one of their staple items.

Reformation

Carolina Silk Skirt in Black

Reformation

Carolina Linen Skirt in Sugar

Reformation

Carolina Silk Skirt in Zephyr

Madewell The Easy Shirt

I get more picky about button-down shirts by the year, but the Madewell Easy Shirt is one to write home about. It hits at the perfect length, is oversized without being too oversized, is well-made (and under-$100!), and comes in a plethora of colors.

Madewell

The Easy Shirt in Light Blue

Madewell

The Easy Shirt in White

Madewell

The Easy Shirt in Tranquil Blue

Comme Si The Yves Socks

Socks shouldn't be put on the back-burner, if you ask me. It's a key basic that's functional and can even become the focal point of an outfit (in a good way). I can't stop buying this Comme Si style, which is perfect in every way.

Comme Si

The Yves Socks in White

Comme Si

The Yves Socks in Heather Grey

COMME SI

The Yves Set of Six Ribbed Cotton-Blend Socks

Reformation Inez Pumps

I suppose it's debatable whether or not a shoe can be considered a basic, but I'm going with the idea that it can. The Reformation Inez pumps quickly went viral upon their release last fall, and Ref continues to release them in additional colors and heel heights. Trust me—they're the perfect shoe for any and every outfit, all of which they instantly elevate. I own them in Espresso Eel and a burgundy calf hair verstion that was released this winter, and I don't think I'm stopping there.

Reformation

Inez Pumps in Espresso Eel

Reformation

Inez Pumps in Almond Eel

Reformation

Inez Pumps in Black

J.Crew Cashmere High V-Neck Sweater

This is my favorite cashmere sweater purchase of recent times, hands down. The high-V-neck is so chic and forward, and the fit is perfect. I'd gladly own it in all eight colors. I'll be wearing it draped over my shoulders when it's not sweater weather this spring and summer.

J.Crew

Cashmere High V-Neck Sweater in Hthr Charcoal

J.Crew

Cashmere High V-Neck Sweater in August Peridot

J.Crew

Cashmere High V-Neck Sweater in Black

Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Chino Baseball Cap

When it comes to the accessory version of a basic, a Polo Ralph Lauren baseball cap might be the most frequently-worn item in my closet. I own it in winter colors, I own it in summer colors—all of which make whatever outfit they're paired with look a bit preppy and a bit more expensive—in the casual-cool way that only a baseball cap can.

Polo Ralph Lauren

Chino Sport Cap in Carson Blue/Adirondack Navy

Polo Ralph Lauren

Classic Sport Cap in Nubuck/Relay Blue

POLO RALPH LAUREN

Embroidered Cotton-Twill Cap in Army Green

Posse Alice Linen Mini Dress

Last but not least is the perfect linen dress: the Posse Alice Linen Mini Dress. This square-neck mini (with pockets!) is classic and timeless yet feels on-trend no matter the year. The black and white iterations are a must, but keep your eyes peeled for the seasonal colors Posse tends to release.

Posse

Alice Mini Dress in Black

Posse

Alice Linen Mini Dress in Ivory

Posse

Alice Linen Minidress in White Black Polka Dot