10 Basics I Wear to Death For Effortlessly Put-Together Looks

I've never been a big fan of skinny jeans, but can wax poetic about the genius of the straight-leg jean. Whether in a light vintage wash or inky-blue shade, I find them to be slightly more tailored and trouser-like than other cuts of denim, especially with a high-rise waist and a clean finish (i.e. no distressing). The best part? They go with literally everything! Sweaters, tops, shirts, bodysuits, sweatshirts, blazers, ev-er-y-thing! I told you I was obsessed.

I live for a turtleneck. Does that make me sound dowdy? Perhaps. But to me, they're the best layering piece in my closet when it's cold out. Toss one on under a crewneck silhouette for a fun little pop, ground a patterned blazer with one for a sophisticated look, or wear one on its own tucked into jeans, trousers, or a high-waisted skirt. In neutral shades like white, black, grey, and tan, your options are endless.

A good slip dress is like a blank canvas for amazing outfits. When it's warm, they're impeccable on their own with great accessories. In cool weather, they're a polished layering piece when you want to look a little more dressed up or simply not wear pants. Layered under blazers, jackets, and knits, they're effortlessly elegant in both solid shades and pretty prints.

Blazers can get a bad rap and be considered boring by many. The key here is to find a style with an interesting element be it be it a texture, pattern, or colour or come with exaggerated details like a puffed shoulder, cinched waist, or oversized lapel. Tailoring is also key here. The more customised to your shape it is, the more impact it will have. Styling also plays a big part. For an effortless look, try yours over a simple crewneck tee or sweater.

Speaking of tees, a basic white t-shirt is as essential as underwear. Which also means you should have several go-to options to rotate through. Whether you're trying to offset a dressier piece for an unfussy vibe or simply want a low-key top to tuck into jeans, the white crewneck t-shirt never fails.

For many, trousers can either feel blah as heck or overly complicated. I find that when you throw on a pair with a simple t-shirt or knit and a great shoe, you look perfectly polished, but with ease. I have two go-to silhouettes: a high-rise trouser — a paperbag waist being my favourite for a superflattering (and slightly dramatic) fit — and a slim black pant that's a more elevated take on black leggings. When you want to switch things up from jeans, both of these pant styles make an impact when you keep the rest of your look simple.

A thick sweater is my go-to piece when I'm offsetting fancier fabrics like silk or when I'm in a cosy little mood and want to top off leggings, trousers, or jeans. They're more substantial than thinner knits, often with more structure to them and unique design details which results in a more put-together outfit. Stock up on your favourite silhouettes and colours whether it's a turtleneck, v-neck, or cardigan worn as a top!

The white shirt is one of those staples than can easily feel stale, but my trick it wearing one as a layering piece over tees, tanks, and thin turtlenecks or seeking out a style with modern elements like an exaggerated fit or voluminous sleeve. Styling is crucial for making yours feel unfussy — denim is generally my go-to on bottom. Or, a slip skirt or dress when I'm feeling feminine.

My go-to hack for looking put-together in the Winter? A Classic wool coat! Camel is the most timeless and tends to stand out a little more than black, navy, or grey. From tailored silhouettes to cocoon-like wraps, it's utterly fail-safe over jeans, t-shirts, and sweaters with a simple boot.

The bodysuit is kind of a secret weapon when it comes to layering. Though I'm very much a proponent of perfect tees, tanks, and knits, a bodysuit is truly the best item for tucking into high-rise silhouettes for a seamless look. If you're new to bodysuits, I suggest starting with black and when styling yours, be sure to offset the slim-fit with a looser jean or trouser for a laid-back feel.