I Asked My NYC and L.A. Friends for the Basics They'll Never Give Up

I'm consistently inspired by NYC and L.A. style-setters. So I'm always interested in learning about the items these fashion people gravitate toward for their lives on the coasts. On that note, I thought I'd ask my fellow editor friends who reside in these two cities for a few fresh shopping recommendations. Given that elevated basics are the foundational pieces in many of our wardrobes, I specifically inquired about the pieces they consider to be go-tos.

Three of my fellow editors in NYC and four in L.A. ended up sharing lists of the basics they'll never give up because they're true staples thanks to their versatile nature. And believe it or not, there was actually an overlap with four specific items across all of the lists. Furthermore, all of the pieces that the NYC and L.A. crowds love happen to be available from our namesake line, Who What Wear Collection.

Keep scrolling to check out forward basics that are crowd-pleasers, complete with visual and shopping inspiration.

Ribbed Knits

A coordinating knit set is a modern classic. You can wear the pieces together or mix and match.

A slouchier knit teamed with high-waisted trousers is effortlessly chic.

You just can't go wrong with a ribbed-knit-and-jeans combo.

This cutout knit would be considered a next-level basic. It's forward yet versatile, in that it can be styled with so many pieces (including the midi skirt).

A black turtleneck is incredibly sleek.

Such a sweet knit with the matching skirt.

Updated LBDs

A trend-ish LBD with the cutout details.

A darling dress to wear with sandals or boots.

Another great black dress with cutout details.

Relaxed Shirts

This relaxed button-down shirt works with the coordinating pants or with just about anything else.

Here is that same top in a lovely hue.

A white blouse is a wardrobe staple, in all of our editors' eyes, to be worn with a range of pieces.

Modern Blazers

A blazer (whether worn on its own or as part of a suit) adds an elegant twist to any look.

One word: sharp.

Next, check out more standout pieces.