Right now, the number of fashion trends is too large to count on one hand. Just as butter yellow built up in popularity, bubble skirts shot up the list and then our attention was drawn straight to khaki colours before sheer fabrics stuck out on the runway, and that’s just the tip of the trend iceberg. Suffice to say, it’s not easy to keep up. But, all this change calls for one thing: a great set of basics.

After all, few tops work better with a leopard print jean than a sleek white linen shirt, a maxi skirt becomes a statement when paired with a cropped T-shirt, and a big, baggy pair of jeans looks incredibly chic when paired with an also now trending tank top. It’s these basics that really help build an outfit. Finding them, however, can become quite the challenge. As any T-shirt lover will know, no two are built quite the same.

So, to lend a helping hand, us fashion editors here at Stylist are opening up our little black book of where to actually buy the best ones. T-shirts, vest tops, trench coats, included, and all should become a staple in anyone’s wardrobe for many years to come. 

For fans of Uniqlo, we don’t need to sell you on the brand’s soft cotton T-shirts, merino ribbed cardigans or bestselling built-in bra tops (a real gamechanger for anyone who hates a classic push-up bra). For anyone who has yet to step into Uniqlo’s stores, imagine a brand built for basics with simple shapes of essential items in a huge range of shades. Plus, once the weather cools off, it’s our go-to place for thermals. 

When thinking of basics, T-shirts, black trousers and neutral knits may immediately spring to mind, but there are some more formalwear finds that manage to maintain the same pared back sleekness of a sturdy staple, and you’ll find them all at Albaray. Wedding guest worthy dresses, shiny satin trousers and sharply-tailored blazers all feature on the roster, classed as a basic thanks to their neutral colour palettes and easy wearability. 

M&S needs little introduction, being a mainstay on the high street since 1903. Yet it still tops our shopping list when searching for everyday basics thanks to it’s high quality and often affordable price point. In the basics section, you’ll find everything from chic jeans to seamless underwear and it’s one of our favourite spots to pick up colourful cashmere, too. 

No matter if it’s denim, a classic co-ord or a classic coat you’re after, Aligne is sure to provide plenty of tempting options. Run by a small, female, London-based team the relatively new brand (founded in 2020) focuses less on trends and more on wearability. Each item is made with a more responsible consideration in mind. Plus, as it’s still a small brand, you’re unlikely to see someone wearing the exact same fit. 

Just like M&S, John Lewis has become an incredibly stylish high street stalwart and stocks a huge range of some of our favourite brands, including Albaray. Yet, you may not know that the department store also has its own clothing ranges: John Lewis, John Lewis Anyday and And/Or. And it’s here you’ll find a great selection of everyday basics – organic cotton tank tops, swimsuits, shirts and trousers, included. 

Scandi style has long been one we admire, so we’re happy to get a good helping from Arket. Oversized coats, suits and shirts are all on the menu, alongside sleek and sturdy accessories, so you’ll have no problem hunting down a whole wardrobe of basics. 

If you’re after a more planet-friendly brand, allow us to put Ninety Percent on your radar. With a strong focus on both people and the planet, Ninety Percent produces items with zero water going to waste, all buttons are produced with plant-based materials and ninety percent of all profits are split between the people who make each item and a small selection of charities, hence the name. Plus, the brand’s ‘essentials’ range boasts some of our favourite basics. 

Home to some of the best workwear on the high street, Cos is a one-stop shop for all our professional clothing needs. But, of course, these go much further than a simple white shirt and black suit. Thanks to a Swedish style twist, you’ll find sharp suits, cosy co-ords and beautifully designed dresses ready for any occasion. 

Underwear is the real building block of any outfit, and Organic Basic does it just brilliantly. As the name suggests, all materials are organic, recycled or plant-based, meaning they’re more people and planet-friendly. Plus, they’re super soft – an added bonus – and you’ll also find vests, shorts, T-shirts and loungewear. 

Skims may be famous for shapewear, but it’s the brand’s T-shirts we’re truly in love with. In fact, it’s Stylist’s fashion and beauty director Kitty McGee’s current go-to style, and we love the XXS-4X size range, meaning plenty of people can enjoy. 

Images: courtesy of Organic Basics and brands