9 Easy Basics That Will Instantly Elevate Your Spring Capsule Wardrobe

You may think it takes a lot of effort (and money) to make your wardrobe look polished, but in my ten years experience of being a stylist and editor, I’ve come to find that simply nailing your affordable wardrobe basics can make a huge difference to how put-together your overall outfit looks. For example, a plain white T-shirt might seem like a secondary thought—a basic you grab at your local supermarket or on the way home from work and make do with for years. But these essentials usually end up being our most worn wardrobe items, whether you have a classic capsule wardrobe that puts them front and centre, or a more maximalist approach and use these items as a base. Having crisp (you know the feeling), good-quality essentials that come highly recommended, therefore, can be the key to unlocking a more elevated wardrobe that lasts you season after season.
Talking of seasons, spring is upon us and in my opinion there’s no better time to re-evaluate the building blocks of your wardrobe. They don’t call it a spring clean for no reason—and I don’t know about you, but I find this need for a reset always extends to my closet, too. It’s also the time of year when basics really shine—layering is key during transitional seasons, so even simple spring basics from shirting to tank tops get a chance to take centre stage.
Now, I’m not talking about buying a whole new wardrobe here. Simply updating a few of your most worn spring basics can have the effect of uplifting the rest of your wardrobe with minimal effort. Below, I’ve pinpointed the nine best spring basics that I honestly believe if you get right, will elevate all of your new season outfits. Keep scrolling to shop…
1. The Perfect White T-Shirt
2. Blue Jeans
3. A Classic Blazer
4. A Crisp White Shirt
5. A Versatile Trench Coat
6. The Ultimate Tank Top
7. A Basic Breton
8. Reliable Loafers
9. Relaxed Trousers
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily landed at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she has styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.
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