6 Cheap and Chic Spring Basics I’m Buying to Dress Better This Spring

There are a lot of trends on my mind as I gear up for spring (take platform flip flops and cut-outs for instance), but for all my excitement of what's trendy and new, I can never turn down a good basic. Even more so if it happens to be affordable. Around this time of year, I start to heavily rely on my collection of denim jeans and blazers, so an arsenal of basics helps to keep my staples feel fresh. 

When it comes to shopping for good basics I like to go for pieces that offer little stylish details like big buttons, big sleeves, or ruffles that catch the eye; consider them a step up from boring basics. They can carry an outfit on their own with simple accessories, or work together to help power some of your more dramatic wardrobe pieces. Whichever way you style them, if you're in the same boat as me, count yourself lucky: I've put together a list of some of the best elevated basics to buy now. Keep scrolling to see my favorite cheap and chic pieces to get you ready for the season ahead. 

1. Trendy Polos

I relish leaving my heavy winter sweaters behind, so in their place, I'm going for preppy polo knits. It's not a style I usually go for, but this season they're showing up as a major trend, and reimagined with pouf sleeves and big buttons. This olive green and black version from Who What Wear's Target collection, can be worn with everything from skirts to trousers.

Wearing: Defoe & Co. Infinity Knot Earrings ($72); Berlin Statement Necklace ($135); Caroline Dome Ring ($108); French Braided Chunky Ring ($135); Diana Double Tone Diamond Ring ($203).

2. Prarie Dresses

Dresses play an integral part in my spring wardrobe, and this season I'm going for looser, prairie styles. They capture that easiness of spring without trying too hard, which also coordinates nicely with a pair of white canvas sneakers. 

3. Easy-going LBDs

Next to prairie dresses, I keep a steady rotation of simple yet elevated black dresses that I can throw on at a moment's notice. You don't have to stress too hard about styling because the cardinal rule still applies: black goes with everything.

4. Exaggerated Sleeves

Sure, simple long-sleeve tops do the trick, but the fun of big sleeves really makes getting dressed way more exciting. They make a pair of jeans feel that much more sartorially intentional.

5. Utility Pants

I figured it's time to give my stretchy sweatpants a rest and delve into the world of utility pants. I've been noticing them more and more on fashion girls lately, so I'm eager to try them out with a few of my other basics like bodysuits and strappy sandals. 

6. Elevated Tanks

A good tank top is a spring essential, and after moving to the West Coast I'm wearing them now more than ever. I'm thoroughly into the knit material and button-down details on this one.

Shop More Affordable Spring Basics:

Coming up, 20 Beautiful Designer Bags That Are Knockouts.