While the words "basics" and "staples" may not set your pulse racing like this season's buzzier trends (sheer skirts and sequins come to mind), there's a reason we talk about them so often here at Who What Wear. Basics are the bread and butter of our wardrobes—versatile, effortless, easy, and chic—and lucky for us, they're having a moment in the spotlight for fall/winter 2023.
One of the prevailing messages on the runways was wearability with an emphasis on elevated basics as well as fresh silhouettes and wearable color trends that are easy to style within your daily ensembles. The plain-speaking pieces may appear "boring" at first glance, but it's really all about the way you wear and style them that makes the big difference. Take one gray hoodie and pair it with a camel coat and leggings, and you have a Miu Miu look that's cool and commuter-ready.
Today, I'm highlighting some of the staples we editors here at Who What Wear are fully endorsing in our daily wardrobes this season. Many of them are pieces we have already been wearing and loving most of the year, from button-downs to ballet flats. Keep scrolling for our unapologetic love for the basics.
Button-Downs
Classic button-downs—a longtime staple among the fashion set—are taking the spotlight this fall. White button-downs are a must, as spotted all over the runways, from Prada to Bottega Veneta. We also saw button-downs in subtle hues like blue and beige and striped iterations.
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Ballet Flats & Mary Janes
Classic ballet flats and their little sister, Mary Janes, are timeless in nature, but they're both undeniably having a major moment this year. Whether styled with maxi skirts, minidresses, or jeans, they're the shoe styles fashion people just can't get enough of.
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Relaxed Jeans
This year has been all about low and loose jeans, and the trendy style continues its dominance into fall. Style with a chic fitted knit or a blazer to add polish to the casual silhouette.
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Hoodies
The humble hoodie made a prominent appearance on the fall/winter 2023 runways, but it was Miu Miu's show that solidified its fashion-person status. Style it over a turtleneck and under a camel coat this season for a nonchalant fall look.
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Fitted Cardigan
Charming cardigans are a year-round staple, but thanks to the runways, they were given a high-fashion makeover, styled with everything from sheer skirts to hot pants. Needless to say, you can't go wrong with investing in a cozy and cute style this fall.
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Blazers
Blazers may seem basic, but there are plenty of fresh iterations to lean into this season, from cinched-waist styles to tailored double-breasted silhouettes.
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Leather Jackets
It's officially leather-jacket season, and this season's styles are anything but boring. From distressed fabrics to oversize silhouettes, they'll add a cool-girl touch to every outfit.
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