While our trusty basics serve as the backbone of our wardrobes (where would we be without our skinny jeans and black sweaters?), we’ll be the first to admit that we get easily fatigued by yet another jean-and-sweater outfit, especially throughout the colder months when they're the first items we reach for. So how can we add a sartorial breath of fresh air to our staples this season and into the next? We’ve rounded up some nifty tips, tricks, and cool outfit ideas below to keep your hard-working basics looking fresh and modern. From runway-approved layering techniques (we’re stealing plenty from Victoria Beckham’s S/S 20 runway show) to statement accessories guaranteed to amp up your outfits, we recommend trying these eight style tips below to zhuzh up your essentials.
Opt for a Pop of Color Under Your Staple Check Blazer
Give your staple check blazer a whole new look by layering a bold and bright shirt or shacket underneath it. We highly suggest a hot-pink hue—a color that is trending hard for spring 2020.
Shop:
Add a Large Peter Pan Collar to Your Basic Black Sweater
Oversize collars are everywhere right now. We particularly love the old-timey, lace Peter Pan collars we've been spotting all over Instagram—a refreshingly chic addition to add under your basic black sweaters.
Shop:
Layer Your Basics: Blazer Over Button-Down Shirt Over Turtleneck
Take a lesson from Victoria Beckham's S/S 20 runway show, and layer a blazer over a pointed-collar button-down over a basic turtleneck. Bonus points if you choose contrasting colors for each layer so they really stand out.
Shop:
Add a Floral Dress Under Your Staple Puffer Jacket
We've all been living in puffer coats for most of the season, so what's a refreshing way to wear yours while the temps are still cool? A spring-forward floral dress will do just the trick. Opt for a midi or maxi length to show through the coat, which will instantly brighten up your look.
Shop:
Tie a Knit Bra Top Over Your Everyday White Shirt
A basic white button-down is one of the hardest-working items in our wardrobes, but we can easily feel fatigued by yet another white shirt–and-jean outfit. Instead, give it an of-the-moment touch by adding a knit crop top or bra over the basic. This Zara one has already gone viral.
Shop:
Give Your Basic Midi Skirt a Cool-Girl Touch With Lug-Sole Boots
A pleated midi skirt will serve you year-round, but the shoes you wear can give the staple an entirely new look. Try chunky lug-sole boots as a contrast to the elegant basic.
Shop:
Add an Oversize Shacket and Knee-High Boots to Your Basic Black Skinny Jeans
Let's be honest: Our black skinny jeans get a serious amount of use, but just when you think you've exhausted every black skinny-jean outfit, a cool jacket comes along to spruce up our look. For a modern ensemble, pair a trendy oversize shirt-jacket over your skinnies and finish with chic knee-high boots.
Wear an Orange Bag With Your Staple Winter Coat
When all else fails, one of the easiest ways to refresh your basics is with a statement handbag. This season, opt for orange, one of the biggest color trends of spring 2020 that we've spotted all over the street style set.
Shop:
Up next, the seven biggest color trends of spring 2020.
