005: Giving Basics Their Main Character Moment
Elevated basics and their power in your wardrobe
I like to think of one’s wardrobe as an ecosystem where each item has its coordinating role, which is important in achieving overall harmony. One of the most hardworking pieces in this ecosystem is the wardrobe basic, with it being called for duty most days and working across a range of outfits. However, she is tired of never being the star of the show and constantly being subjected to the role of trusty sidekick. Enough is enough and she deserves to have her voice heard! Introducing: the elevated basic.
An elevated basic is a wardrobe staple, such as a pair of jeans, or a t-shirt, with a characteristic edge. It is a piece you pick up without thinking, a base layer to an outfit, with an interesting twist. The twist comes in various forms, working to add your unique spin on a look, whilst staying true to the pieces that make you feel the most comfortable.
Deciding on the twist is similar to dating, with each person having non-negotiables that are individual to their desires. What one person looks for in a smart edge, another may want in a streetwear touch. Finding the perfect union promises true love on the other side. It is important to be intentional with this and not lower your standards for short-term pleasure. There is nothing worse than wasting money on items that end up gathering dust in your closet. Being deliberate about how the characteristic fits into and strengthens the wider ecosystem of your wardrobe allows you to pick items that will be cherished for a long time.
Below are two versions of the ‘jeans and a t-shirt’ outfit we all know, with the elevated basic providing different perspectives.
As you can see, in the first outfit, the barrel-leg silhouette of the jeans adds a more eclectic touch to the simplicity of the simple t-shirt it is paired with. With the second outfit, the draping of the top, as well as its asymmetric sleeves, brings a sensual and dynamic edge to the classic straight-leg jeans. Both pieces work to bring a unique perspective to an outfit and infuse the looks with individuality.
Below are some of my favourite elevated basics at the moment, with each basic working hard, but looking good whilst doing so.
I have been a long-time Line by K fan with the brand’s ability to infuse sensuality into wardrobe staples. The Selma long-sleeve top makes the normally plain piece worth showing off. The devil is in the details with the mock neck and pleating in the waist elevating the piece and making all the difference. The subtle draping detail adds that sexy touch to make the top perfect for a day-night transition. This is the kind of top you wear to seduce your date without them realising the source of that power. You’re welcome.
The Santa top from Gimaguas is aptly named as it is truly a gift giver. The kind of piece you put on when you tell your friends you are simply wearing a ‘t-shirt and jeans’ and they end up screaming at you for false advertising. The lace fabric paired with a hood makes it a showstopper, whilst the t-shirt silhouette makes it casual enough to wear most days. It is a perfect summer piece to make more casual with a pair of jeans or to lean into its sex appeal by adding a lace skirt and kitten heels.
Vintage Helmut Lang dresses are a treasure trove of simple but elegant pieces to spice up your wardrobe. This mini dress works perfectly in warmer weather, with the cowl neck and ruched details allowing you to stand out. These are the details that make all the difference, adding a flattering and stylistic touch to an otherwise simple mini-dress. It allows you to wear less but still say more, making it one of my favourites.
These barrel jeans have had the same effect a good scent has on the masses. I have been chased in the streets by someone demanding I tell them where they are from, they are just that good. The low waist allows them to look effortless whilst the silhouette immediately injects an outfit with a playful edge, giving the illusion that you put 10 times more effort than you did. They are the cheapest version of these jeans that I have found, working just as well as their expensive counterparts and worth every penny. I will be getting them in most colours.
Go forth and make the wardrobe basic bejewelled again (shameless Taylor Swift reference). Have a good week x
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The devil certainly is in the details. For YEARS I only bought neutral colored, simple cut tees. Now I try to mix it up with fabrication (a silk blend here and there) but I also really love the yellow Line by K top you linked to.
This is so beautifully and thoughtfully written!! Also that Vivienne Westwood top? Yum!