Remember when I made my mom share her take on the best fashion items worth investing in? Not surprisingly, her advice was a hit you all (just as it’s been for myself and my sisters all our lives), which is why I figured I'd pry some more intel out of her on a new topic. This time, the woman of few words but much good taste (whose name, by the way, is Shirin) gave us the scoop on her favorite brands for buying basics—a topic which, actually, seemed quite fitting, seeing as I also have an affinity for the simple yet crucial wardrobe staples.
Nonetheless, from Gap and Zara to Chanel and Proenza Schouler, she’s got something for the under-$100 shoppers, the investment buyers, and, of course, those who are somewhere in the middle. To see and shop all 12 of the brands that made the cut, just keep scrolling.
Under $100
"J.Crew has the best cardigans."
Like everyone, my mom is a big fan of Nike's simple (and affordable) sneakers.
Gap
Today I learned that Gap has the softest tanks and pajamas, most of which can typically be found on sale.
Zara
Like mother, like daughter. The woman loves a good Zara find—namely, their tees, sandals, and trousers.
Investments
For timeless blazers, it's Ralph Lauren.
Proenza Schouler
Sounds specific, but apparently Proenza Schouler really excels in the white tops category.
Chanel
According to my mom, "a Chanel tweed jacket is a basic"—and I'm not mad at that.
Armani
If you're looking for a good pair of pants to invest in, Armani is her pick.
Somewhere in the Middle
Mother
These trending pleated jeans would be my pick, while the classic pair below would be my mom's/
I would have to agree with her that Vince has the best sweaters.
Theory
But, then again, who isn't obsessed with everything from Theory?
Frame
Another very solid denim brand for simple yet perfect jeans.
Up next? Four surprising summer trends these London girls are into.
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From Denim to White T-Shirts—These Are the Specific Brands I Source My Basics FromWhen you've tried them all, you know what's good.
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A New York Fashion Person Walks Into Gap—23 Items They'd Grab for SummerI am that fashion person.
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Fashion People Are Quietly Retiring White Tank Tops for These Sleek New BasicsShop the chic alternatives inside.
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Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy Had the Ultimate Capsule Wardrobe—30 Timeless Staples That Will Never Go Out of StyleDecades later, her wardrobe still defines minimalist dressing.
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These 31 Anti-Trend Basics Are Quickly Becoming the Foundation of My 2025 WardrobeTake note.
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This Elevated Basics Brand Is Every NYC and London Fashion Person's Best-Kept SecretAnd I just tried on nine pieces in its NYC pop-up.
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I Never Wear These Outdated Staples Anymore—6 I'm Buying to Freshen Things UpClearing out.
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I Hate to Admit It, But After Purging My Closet, I Had to Rebuy These 8 Hero PiecesHere's what I learned after my closet identity crisis.
