The Wardrobe Basics We Keep Coming Back To
The staples that never go out of style, no matter what’s trending.
By Settle & Kettle Published 23 August 2026
7 min read
If you’ve been alive for more than 15 years, you’ve probably seen fashion trends come and go, but the basics always seem to somehow remain through every season. These wardrobe basics could even be a piece you reach for to pair with a trendy top or trousers you’ve recently purchased.
That being said, I’m sure most of us have experienced, at least once in our lifetime, the specific kind of frustration that comes with needing one of these wardrobe basics and realising you don’t actually own it, usually right when you need it most.
But the best thing about them is that once you do have them, you can pair them with other basics in your wardrobe and not have to worry about what to wear.
Jeans (Denim)
The good ole jeans… fun fact, did you know that the term “jeans” first appeared in the 17th century? It’s been here longer than we’ve all been, and they’re much needed in every wardrobe. They also come in different styles, so whatever your style is, there’s a cut made to suit. Also, once you find a great pair of jeans that fit just right, it can feel like a discovery.
A Pair of Flat Shoes
A pair of black or brown shoes are a necessity, you can pair them with tights for a more elevated look or you can wear them as they are. When you’re in doubt and have lots of conflicting colours in your outfit or don’t have the right colour of shoe, they’ll come in handy. These days there are lots of different styles to choose from with different price points.
Block Heel Boots
A pair of block heel boots, in black or brown, are worth having for the days you want a bit more height without sacrificing comfort. Unlike a thin heel, the wider base makes them far easier to walk in for longer stretches, which matters if you’re commuting, running errands, or just on your feet most of the day. They also work well across seasons, since they can be dressed up with a skirt or dress just as easily as they pair with jeans.
Flat Boots
Alongside the block heel option, a pair of flat boots earns its place too. They’re the ones you reach for when comfort takes priority, wet weather, long days, or simply when heels aren’t practical. Having both a heeled and a flat option covers most situations without needing to overthink footwear each morning.
A Singlet in Your Shade
This one’s more of a practical layering piece than a standalone item, but it’s just as essential. A singlet in your shade worn under sheer or see-through clothing keeps outfits work-appropriate without changing how the piece looks from the outside. It’s a small addition that quietly solves a common styling problem.
A Practical Bag
A good bag, in black or brown, should be able to carry a fair amount without feeling like you’re compromising on style. Look for one without an overpowering pattern or a highly visible logo, since the goal is for it to complement an outfit rather than compete with it. Quality leather also matters here, since a well-made bag tends to hold up to daily use far better than one that isn’t, which makes it worth the investment if you’re carrying it often.
A Good Belt
Similarly, a belt in black or brown, without a large logo or an overly prominent design, works best as a basic. It should be present in an outfit, not the main focus of it, and able to be worn repeatedly without looking out of place or wearing out quickly.
Thermal Wear Top
For the colder months, a set of thermal wear makes a noticeable difference. It’s not the most visible part of an outfit, but it’s often the piece doing the most work when temperatures drop.
A Black Wrap Coat
A black wrap around coat, ideally at least 70% wool, is worth prioritising for winter. Wool tends to retain heat far better than synthetic alternatives, so a higher wool content usually means a warmer coat overall. The wrap style also has the benefit of being adjustable, so it can suit different layers underneath depending on the weather.
Tailored Trousers
A pair of plain tailored trousers is one of the most versatile pieces you can own, since they can be dressed up for work or dressed down for a more casual look, depending on what they’re paired with.
Tights
A reliable pair of tights, along with a fleece-lined option for winter, rounds out the basics well. The regular pair works for most of the year, while the fleece-lined version becomes essential once the weather turns properly cold.
Neutral Trainers
A pair of neutral trainers, in white, taupe or beige rather than a primary colour, tends to go with far more outfits than a bold pair would. They’re the kind of shoe you can wear without needing to think about whether they’ll clash with what you already have on.
Knitwear
Sweaters, cardigans, and knit dresses are a necessity, especially as the weather cools. They layer well, work across most occasions, and tend to feel effortless compared to more structured pieces.
Black Sunglasses
A pair of black sunglasses earns its spot mostly because the sun is bright and they look good doing their job.
Invisible Underwear
Underwear without thick seams or visible edges is one of those quiet wardrobe basics that makes a real difference under fitted clothing. It’s not something anyone else will notice directly, but you’ll notice if it’s missing.
A Black Blazer
A black blazer is one of the most flexible pieces you can add to a wardrobe. It can be dressed up or down, paired with a dress or a pair of jeans, and works in almost any setting. A slightly oversized fit is an added bonus, since it leans more relaxed without losing the structure a blazer brings to an outfit.
A Button-Up Shirt
Finally, a button-up shirt, ideally in white and two other colours that suit your style, is worth having in multiples. They’re excellent for layering and can be styled in more ways than most other wardrobe basics, whether tucked in, tied up, or worn open over something else.
Wardrobe basics rarely feel exciting to buy, but they’re the pieces that end up carrying an outfit more often than not. Once you’ve built up a solid collection, getting dressed becomes far less about chasing trends and more about reaching for what already works.
Share this article