Basic Instinct: Where to buy good wardrobe basics
Photos: Claire Pepper
Basic isn’t boring, it’s brilliant. What’s not to like about timeless clothes you can wear on repeat? I’ve always loved the simple, elegant style of American Vogue contributing editor Tonne Goodman: trademark white jeans, a simple sweater, classic reefer jacket and penny loafers. And the androgynous outfits worn by Studio Nicholson designer, Nick Wakeman. This is no nonsense dressing. There’s no energy wasted thinking about what to wear. Once on job, done. If our younger years are all about trial, error and identity-finding; midlife and beyond is about simplicity, streamlining and refining. There’s no time for faffing around.
As I’ve been living in my ‘Not-So-Basic-Basics’ over the last year, I’m looking to refresh a few of my tired Breton tops. There’s a pair of black jeans I’ve practically been wearing since January, now in urgent need of need repair – though I’m hoping it’ll soon be time to switch over to faded blue denim and an easy-breezy, oversized shirt. These everyday essentials are what I like to call Wardrobe Glue, they form the foundation of every good outfit. The common denominators are versatility, comfort and ease. Style-up wardrobe essentials with an eye-catching silk scarf and a zingy suede bag, or keep it minimal with pared-down jewellery and complementary accessories; either way, you’ll never look basic. Understated can never be overrated.
NRBY Evie Shirt and Mimi Berry bag (loaned for the shoot and returned)
Just about every fashion brand offers its own version of ‘basics’, here are a few of my favourites:
Yes, I know I bang on and on about Community Clothing but it’s a brilliant initiative and a superb place to shop for good quality, affordable basics. And now a small range of menswear is available at John Lewis (though the sweatshirts, jeans and chore jackets are all gender neutral). Every purchase goes towards supporting UK clothing manufacture and helping to restore pride, trade and jobs in textile-making regions, including the north west, which obviously I am in favour of.
Good for: Raincoats, Breton tops, chinos, cotton shirts and socks with a unisex aesthetic. My picks are the straight cut selvedge jeans (£69), made in Blackburn, and the lambswool jumpers which are manufactured in Hawick (£59.) I borrowed the lovely denim work trousers (£59) for a shoot recently, own several pairs of socks and readers have told me that the olive jumpsuit (£89) is a good ‘un.
Given that we’re all staying local now, a collection of clothes for wearing close to the home could not feel more apt. Echoing the Japanese idea of ‘ one-mile wear,’ NRBY creates easy, everyday style for home and nearby. Launched in 2019 by Jo Hooper and Cornelia Smith (two women in their 50s), the ethos behind the clothing line does feel quite prescient, today. But it was the changing lives of women – the way we work, from home, part-time, a combination of both – rather than the remote threat of a pandemic that inspired the idea.
Good for: Pull-on-and-go (but not too far) dungarees and easy dresses in linen and jersey, lovely linen shirts and tunics – the jersey Evie shirt is one of my everyday favourites
London label, LF Markey specialises in ‘beautiful clothes for practical women’. I had a meeting with a designer the other day about a project I’m working on (more information coming soon!) and she had on a pair of French blue, slouchy, workwear pants from LF Markey and a simple navy sweater. Cool as you like.
Good for: boiler suits and dungarees, chore jackets and easy, oversized dresses.
A little bit of Toast has gradually crept into my wardrobe over the last few years – and that’s not just because they have very kindly gifted me a couple of items (including the green denim jacket , above). I heard an unconfirmed rumour that the womenswear designer is ex-Margaret Howell and the utilitarian vibe and easy silhouettes reflect this. There is a focus on creating clothes to last, and Toast stand by their collections, even through wear and tear, by offering mending workshops and repair services. Other retailers, take note.
Good for: Baggy trousers, shirt dresses, workwear-inspired jackets and cotton shirts, all made in natural fabrics. Prices are slightly more premium – think £135 for trousers, but this can often be justified if you consider cost per wear (and repair). I like the cotton twill side button trousers (£145), the Francis long-sleeved tee (£55) and the stripe wool cashmere sweater (£195). They also sell lovely footwear from eco-labels Veja, Novesta and Good News.
Daniel Craig famously wore a Sunspel polo shirt in Casino Royale – and on a less glamorous note, I own a couple of everyday sweatshirts (one navy, one olive – see first pictured). For luxurious, pared-down basics, Sunspel is a bit like a high-end Community Clothing. Using natural, organic materials, clothes are made in the Long Eaton factory, though the 160-year-old company does ‘work with other, small family-owned factories in the UK and worldwide’.
Good for: Classic loop back sweatshirts and tapered trousers in corduroy and French cotton drill.
Here you’ll find simple t-shirts, sweatshirts and underwear. This American brand specialises in planet-friendly wardrobe essentials, using organic fibres and leftover fabrics. I’ve recently invested in some new knickers (put the flags out), which are good quality, incredibly soft cotton and comfy. Further report on pants coming soon but these are highly recommended.
Good for: Underwear and jersey pieces in soft, neutral colours. I have my eye on the sustainable circular denim jeans (£110) and the pale blue oxford shirt (£97).
It’s always worth checking the clothing section at Muji, particularly now the shops are open as there’s only a small offer online. On a recent excursion, I went in store for new socks and found some lovely lightweight linen shirts and tunics and simple straight-leg trousers; all in muted, neutral tones. The quality is very good for the low price and natural fabrics are front and centre.
Good for: Linen shirts, tops and tees, socks and knickers. The striped organic cotton t-shirt (£9.95) is an excellent layering piece. I also like the organic cotton denim shirt (£24.95) and the easy-to-wear organic linen tops (short and long-sleeved).
Also worth a mention: Seasalt for stripey tops (Seasalt is now available from M&S and John Lewis), Arket for relaxed poplin shirts, COS for shirt dresses and Baukjen for organic sweatshirts, utility jackets and joggers.
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Where do you buy your wardrobe basics?
Discussion (40 Comments)
Thanks for the reminder Catriona, I’ve removed Everlane from the list. I had a nagging feeling about them and should’ve double-checked before publishing (tired brain).
I love the sound of your wardrobe! Arket is great for shirts and simple basics, I used to buy MH at the big sample sale. Ah, and Marion Foale – did you see the exhibition at the Fashion & Textiles museum?Beverly says:
Wow! Hadn’t heard that name in ages.. had a dark green velvet plain long Tuffin & Foale dress when I lived in London in the early’70’s that I wore everywhere, all time favorite, wish I’d have kept it; if only for the memories ..
Wow! Hadn’t heard that name in ages.. had a dark green velvet plain long Tuffin & Foale dress when I lived in London in the early’70’s that I wore everywhere, all time favorite, wish I’d have kept it; if only for the memories ..
Also have found myself buying basics, tee’s & undies, at Gap lately.! Black tee’s my basic, I’ve been through all the more expensive, (love James Perse & Vince) brands, but honestly Gap just fine & they still have a local store.. I hate shopping online, need to touch & try on…
Also Gap linen shirts & tunics inexpensive & easy for summer..
Nicola says:
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again , I don’t think you can beat Boden bretons. Boden have reasonable postage and return policies for overseas customers, unlike Seasalt whose return policy makes overseas purchases prohibitive in my opinion. Although I love the look of Toast I haven’t tried them for the same reason.
In Australia and New Zealand Country Road and Trenery are my go to’s. The quality and customer service is second to none and they have shone during the pandemic. Their ethically sourced merino is a stand out for this winter down under..
Oh yes, good point Nicola. I had Boden on my list because their Richmond trousers are great and come in a range of colours and two different lengths. Also good to hear about Country Road (I mentioned them in my last book) and Trenery for readers down under.
Jacinta Ellis says:
I second your Country Road and Trenery recommendations Nicola and would also include Sportscraft on my list. My first purchase from Country Road was a navy pencil skirt for work, some 40 or so years ago! It served me well for many years.
Debs Chowney says:
I am currently awaiting the delivery of jeans, from Community Clothing. This is one item of clothing I struggle to find, as fit on the tum is usually far too baggy on the bum. Finger’s crossed or the search will continue.
And they arrived this morning and they fit perfectly, on the bum and the legs! Result.
Jan says:
I have bought 2 macs, some shirts and tops and a dress from Community Clothing over the last 4 years and can really recommend them, all well made in good fabric, fast delivery by Royal Mail, thnak goodness. However, I’m at a loss to know how their jeans fit. Can anyone help?
Mia Aimaro Ogden says:
Alyson: the pic with the NRBY Evie Shirt and Mimi Berry bag – where are the trousers from? They look like the very thing I’ve been hunting for for weeks!
MiaHi Mia, The fabulous trousers are from Studio Nicholson (loaned for the shoot and returned) – they are quite voluminous, though. Try Toast and Kin at John Lewis for similar (not quite so baggy) styles.
Helena Lang says:
This is a great post Alyson. Really useful – like you the black jeans are looking a bit ropey now, the black V-neck is heading towards grey, there are a couple of tiny – but I know they are there – stains on several white tops I can’t get out etc. I like to be comfortable (no more skinny jeans that don’t have stretch), I like cuffs or narrow arms that don’t go baggy (I bought two &OtherStories plain L/S tops that go all loose and saggy by the end of the day…annoying) and a flattering not-to-low V neck, or neat round neck. Then jazz everything up with necklaces, scarves, earrings etc.
Catriona says:
I re-dye my black jeans Helena. I do it a couple of times a year & it always works. I don’t like it when the denim is still completely usable but they’ve started to go a bit gnarly round the edges. If I was going to stop wearing them anyway, my theory is that I’ve got nothing to lose!
Sally Skelson says:
I live in the Netherlands and live in a combination of Scotch And Soda, who are denim based but have fabulous prints and details on their clothing and another brand called Vanilia who I would compare to Whistles, a bit smarter but both are brilliant quality and gave lasted years
Denise Hunt says:
I am a Toast and MHL (accessible Margaret Howell label) girl! I am trying to only buy items that add a certain something to my wardrobe!
Alyson McGarrigle says:
Muji has always been a favourite of mine and I have Breton tops I bought there which are excellent quality. I love Uniqlo and have to resist buying something any time I venture in there. Cos is always worth a look and Arket, although, as a none too slim 61 year old, I find some of their styles unflattering. I have been a Boden fan for many years but recently have found their quality a bit lacking. I love Seasalt and generally find their colour palette very appealing.
Lucy Ryan says:
I love your list Alyson and share a love of similar brands. LJ Markey jumpsuit and a recent chore jacket in the sale. My go-to shirt/s is from ADAY. – the ‘something borrowed’ shirt which i have in four colours. They’ve been a fashion lifesaver over zoom – PJ’s and an ADAY shirt! Costly, but I wear them again and again – no iron, drip dry, washing machine, they look fabulous. Sweaty betty is my casual hero – i think i’ve worn their jogging pants a thousand times – yoga, dog walking, you name it.
Lesley W says:
Useful post, thanks Alison.
Do you or others have recommendations for basics for 5ft 4 women.
I’ve stopped buying ‘normal’ clothes as so many get sent back because i drown in them! I’m ending up with a very limited range of brands!
ThanksHi Lesley, A couple of readers have recommended Boden petites, and I’d suggest having a look at Madewell, J.Crew, Uniqlo and Eileen Fisher. Hope that helps!
Robyn says:
I too am 5’4 but I have long legs, arms and a short waist so, petites generally don’t fit. All these suggestions are wonderful but not a mid rise pant to be found. So many styles right now aren’t geared for my body type. Oh well the search continues.
Lorna Muir says:
I have bough Jeans and more recently a Breton top from Community Clothing. I am usually a standard size 12 but have found both garments to be on the small side particularly the Breton top which I will be passing onto someone smaller than me. Love the quality and the ethos though.
bev says:
Yes, yes and triple yes! Wardrobe Glue makes life so much easier. Plonk on the clothing, feel good all day and don’t need to tweak or overthink it. Heaven! I love Toast (affordable MHL in the sale) and Community Clothing – although most of their stock isn’t available at the moment. Sometimes I try and get imaginative and more bohemian but tend to either get carried away (?) or lose my enthusiasm and energy for it and creep back to my glue! Am I allowed to say – with total respect to those who love their colours and patterns that apart from Bretons’s (Seasalt for those) that Boden gives me a headache?
Roslyn says:
What an excellent post, so useful.
I particularly love Toast and MHL, their garments seem to on forever.
Two others for you: there’s Navygrey of course, the place of Perfect Knitwear.
My second pick is Carrier Company. They’re based in Norfolk, everything is made in the UK, and their garments are definitely Wardrobe Glue!K says:
Just checked out NRBY on your rec, although not at all nearby for me…….I must say, really love their stuff. A wide range of lightweight but long sleeved summer clothes (best for avoiding harsh sunrays on arms in summer), lots of jersey fabrics, not limited to just T shirts and T dresses, and cotton cashmere blends for those of us who cannot wear pure animal fabrics! Downsides: shipping, import duties and two sets of taxes; a lot of pink (not my fav colour). Will still consider in items I cannot find elsewhere.
Frances says:
My wardrobe glue pieces are a mixture of Cos, Jigsaw, Yacco Maricard, Oska, Toast, Flax, Pure Collection, Denham, Levis, Gap & M&S.
Happy to say I have finally discovered items that suit my shape, personality & lifestyle. Always opting for quality, timeless & ageless pieces made to last. Careful & not too frequent laundering choosing to hand wash more. Also good to repair to last even longer.Danish Pastry says:
Boden is a go to, mainly because they have classic items in petite sizes (I rarely buy any of their printed items) and they have a good service delivering to Denmark after brexit. Arket is good too, but not for jackets and coats as like many brands they don’t have petite sizing.
lizzie g says:
I love your toast jacket. Cost per wear over many years of a much loved and timeless jacket represents good value and covers all seasons. I dont have the budget i’d like, but i look for Vince and Max Mara second hand online, always reliably good quality.
Theresa m breach says:
As well as the very good recommendations made already can I suggest Poetry and wrap as well.
I’ve also seen lots of recommendations for ME+EM but have never ordered from them.mrsglimmer says:
This post is right up my street! It’s taken me more than 60 years but I’m finally honing my style and this sums it up. Timeless, comfortable basics that are always stylish. I live in rural Scotland and several of the companies mentioned do not have shops up here, so with Uniqlo, for example it has to be online, but nothing beats browsing in real life. Also, at 5’ 2” (on a good day) some brands don’t cater for my height. However, as already stated, Boden are good for jeans and trousers, as are good old M&S.
As always, you look great, Alyson and are so inspirational – and aspirational!Anne Earley says:
Reading your blog has really helped in my style transition as I moved from a formal office to working from home. Toast, Kin and NRBY are my go-to labels now. Still love my Cos dresses and I have a few Whistles basics from my old life which go on for ever with proper care. I live in the rainy North West of England and every time I go out I have to wear a rain jacket which does rather cramp one’s style!
Denise says:
I like Poetry, too, having discovered it only last year: I have practically lived in their gorgeous wide-leg corduroy trousers for the past eight months. Great colour palette, good cuts and, best of all, lots of natural fabrics. A bit more expensive than some of the other brands mentioned, perhaps, but I expect to get lots of use out of the items I’ve bought.
Jean says:
Thank you, Alyson for great shopping tips!
Just stopped by at MUJI (Soho, NYC) and purchased a charcoal gray (beautiful blue gray hue) and navy French sleeve t-shirts. These $12 tees will go with just about every pair of jeans and trousers in my closet:
https://www.muji.us/store/women-coarse-jersey-knit-french-sleeve-t-shirt-bba1520s.htmlHere are a few of my favorite stores for wardrobe basics:
COS for t-shirts
MUJI for tees and yak sweaters
Uniqlo for Smart Pants
Madewell & J. Crew for Cone Denim vintage style jeans
J. Crew for tissue turtlenecks
Alex Mill for shirts & chino pants
Nike for Day Break sneakers (in white or a pop of color such as red)June McGill says:
I have just disccovered Joules, though being given a lovely birthday present from a friend. Very good quality jersey basics, have ordered more and loving the quality of their T- shirts and T-shirt dresses.
I have also been looking for a very wide, low scooped neck t-shirt, to either wear alone or under other garments without the neckline showing. I have discovered Lavender Hill have some fantastic wardrobe basics and the t-shirt I have sunsequently purchased is perfect. Fantastic quality.Mrs Tonia says:
I wear many of the basic brands listed above. Cos for t- shirts and cotton blouses. Uniqlo for short and long sleeved t-shirts and pullovers. And increasingly their collaborations with both Ines de la Fressange and Marimekko. I picked up a couple of loose pull-on Marrimekko dresses well discounted last winter. Very useful WFH clothing with the addition of polo neck Uniqlo heat tech underwear and tights. I find these clothes can easily be customised with the addition of belts, scarves, silver bracelets and necklaces.
I also wear Toast. But I generally get them on sale. The concession in my local John Lewis has been a very good source of discounted Toast garments. The shape isn’t ideal for me, a 5’ 4’ inch person with a bosom. They tend to favour the broader of hip with the dropped full skirts on dresses. But for the price and ethos and fabrics they will do. The trousers don’t fit me that well but again the colours and fabric bought at low price make them good everyday wear. The older silk pieces of Toast I have are lovely to wear. Dressed up or dressed down. They are keepers.
Overall Alyson a very helpful checklist of brands here. Thanks for these suggestions.Sarah says:
If I do not buy second hand I feel guilt. I am as fussy about second hand as I am about new clothes – first thing is the quality of the fabric, second is colour, third is style . Price is immaterial – if I cannot afford it I do not buy it. My wardrobe is full of the most beautiful basic designer clothes – all from second hand shops. I prefer ‘old’ clothes as the fabrics are a better quality. When buying second hand you must know your body shape and what colours suit you. And be prepared to spend as much as you can afford – my tweed winter coat (made in UK) was altered by a tailor to fit perfectly, so for £135 I am wearing a £900 coat. At the cheaper end my Nicole Farhi linen trousers only cost £3.50.
Julie Lawrence says:
Thanks Alyson for this article. Yesterday I popped into the nrby pop up shop, I just happened to be walking past, and bought 4 things on a complete whim!
The things look a bit frumpy on the website ( in my opinion) but are much better when tried on. The clothes aren’t cheap, but I bought classic items and they will last for years. I am 5ft 2, and not too voluminous., although I didn’t try on anything long! So, a good find for me. I will buy some more things when I get paid again!Claire says:
Super-useful article and comments, thank you!
I would LOVE to see your thoughts on where to buy for different body types, as I find brands usually have a ‘house cut’ to suit a particular build. I am tall at 5’11” with a boyish build and proportions that rule out several of the lovely brands recommended here.
The best present ever from my partner was after having our 2nd child and changing work-life: 1:1 time with a stylist and a spend-it-or lose-it budget to help me find my way to feeling great in my new life. More than 20 years later her advice still resonates but retail options are very different, hence my plea.
Alexandra Rutherford says:
A bit late to this but I love COS for timeless classics. Unfortunately I can only wear their tops as the trousers and skirts are made for people over 6ft and I’m 5ft 4! Also White Stuff for easy to wear casuals.
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Love your choices Alyson, although I’ve heard repeatedly that Everlane has had a lot of complaints from its workers so it’s been boycotted by many. It may well have cleaned up its act now though.
I live in Uniqlo U, buy second hand MH, Marion Foale , TOAST (workwear) & Arket. I have been really lucky throughout the pandemic to stare at my wardrobe (what else?) and to work out what I actually do wear and flog the rest on eBay. I doubt I can do capsule, but capsule-ish is on the horizon.