From the perfect white t-shirt to a reliable pair of straight-leg jeans, these women's basic wardrobe essentials form the foundation of countless outfits.
Whether you're putting together a capsule wardrobe or simply refreshing your seasonal shopping list, investing in the best basics for women means prioritising quality, versatility, and comfort.
We’ve also created the same guide, but instead for the best men’s basics brands of this year.
With that in mind, we’ve rounded up 11 of the best women’s basics brands for 2025 that combine cool, classic style with wearability.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Basics for Women
Fabric
The right fabric makes all the difference. Whether it’s a cotton t-shirt, cashmere jumper, or tailored trousers, look for breathable, durable materials.
Cotton-rich blends and natural fibres like wool and linen ensure softness, breathability, and resilience over time. Fabric matters most in wardrobe basics you'll wear on repeat.
Fit
Basics should flatter your body without fuss. Think t-shirts that skim rather than cling, straight-leg pants that elongate your legs, and trench coats that cinch you in all the right places.
Consider your body shape and choose fits that enhance your style goals, whether low-key, relaxed, or dressed and put together.
Colour
Neutral tones like black, white, grey, and beige remain key when it comes to layering and outfit building. These timeless shades slot seamlessly into any collection, making mixing and matching effortless.
Once your foundational pieces are in place, try adding louder colours or statement accessories to elevate your outfit.
The Best Basics for Women to Add to Your Wardrobe
1. Best T-Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch
Price: £18
A perfect blend of laid-back ease and premium construction, Abercrombie’s Essential Premium Polished Relaxed Tee delivers effortless cool and transcends fashion trends.
Cut from the brand’s SoftAF cotton, the fabric is heavyweight enough to feel substantial without being stiff. It offers a smooth and structured drape that elevates it beyond your average T-shirt. The relaxed fit is forgiving and flattering, making it ideal for tucking into jeans or leaving loose over trousers.
Available in versatile core shades like white, black and heather grey, this tee is the kind of foundational staple you’ll want in multiples. Pair it with denim and boots for an easy weekend uniform, or layer it under a blazer for casual-chic office vibes.
Pros
- High-quality cotton fabric
- Versatile neutral shades
- Flattering relaxed fit
Cons
- Limited colour options
2. Best Basic Vest Top: Next
Price: £14
Don’t let its simplicity fool you, this ribbed scoop neck vest from Next is the ultimate multi-tasking basic. Made from soft cotton with just the right amount of stretch, it hugs the body comfortably while maintaining breathability, making it ideal for warm weather or layering under heavier garments.
The finely ribbed texture gives it subtle structure and helps it retain shape wash after wash. It comes in an array of wearable tones like black, white, and blue, perfect for mixing into your everyday wardrobe.
Whether worn solo with high-rise shorts on a sunny day or under a blazer with tailored trousers, this vest offers comfort and style in one easy piece.
Pros
- Soft stretch cotton
- Lightweight and breathable
- Great for layering
Cons
- Regular fit may run snug for some
3. Best Socks: John Lewis
Price: £10 for a pack of 3
Socks may be small, but they make a big difference in everyday comfort, and this pack of three from John Lewis is no exception. Crafted from an organic cotton blend, they’re soft against the skin, breathable, and kind to the environment.
The ribbed texture enhances comfort and grip and adds a subtle style detail when peeking out from ankle boots or trainers. These socks hit the perfect midpoint: thick enough to cushion, but slim enough for more fitted shoes. Available in a neutral trio of shades, they’ll quietly support your outfits day in and day out.
Pros
- Organic cotton blend
- Comfortable ribbed texture
- Affordable pack of three
Cons
Limited size range
4. Best Jeans: Levi's
Price: £110
When it comes to jeans that flatter every body type and never go out of style, Levi’s Ribcage jeans are a standout favourite.
With an ultra-high 14-inch rise, these jeans sit comfortably above the natural waist, cinching and shaping the midsection for a sleek, defined silhouette. The straight leg cut elongates the frame, while the stretch denim fabric offers ease of movement without losing its shape.
These jeans are structured but not stiff, with a vintage-inspired look that pairs perfectly with basics like t-shirts, button-downs, and knits. Available in a variety of washes, they’re a dependable denim option you’ll reach for again and again.
Pros
- Ultra-flattering high rise
- Classic straight leg fit
- Durable stretch denim
Cons
- Higher price point
5. Best Cashmere Jumper: Uniqlo
Price: £79.90
Soft, cosy, and surprisingly affordable, Uniqlo’s 100% Cashmere Crew Neck Jumper is the definition of quiet luxury.
Crafted from fine Mongolian cashmere, it offers unmatched softness and warmth without any of the bulk. Its slim yet comfortable fit makes it perfect for layering under coats or pairing with high-waisted trousers.
Available in a wide range of colours, from wardrobe neutrals to seasonal brights, it’s a versatile piece that transitions seamlessly from casual brunches to office days. And the best part? It’s machine washable on a gentle cycle, making it a fuss-free staple for everyday wear.
Pros
- 100% cashmere
- Wide colour selection
- Machine washable (hand-wash cycle)
Cons
- Slim fit might require sizing up for layering
6. Best Underwear: M&S
Price: £12 for a 5-pack
A stylish upgrade to your everyday underwear drawer, these high-waisted Brazilian knickers from M&S strike the ideal balance between comfort and charm. Made from breathable cotton with added stretch, they provide a secure yet flexible fit that feels great all day long.
The high-waist design smooths and flatters the stomach area, while the lace trim adds a feminine touch without compromising practicality.
Perfect under jeans, dresses or skirts, these knickers come in a handy 5-pack, giving you excellent value without sacrificing style or comfort.
Pros
- Great value 5-pack
- Stretchy, breathable cotton
- Flattering high-waist design
Cons
- Lace trim may show under tight clothes
7. Best Trench Coat: Burberry
Price: £2,150
The Burberry Long Check Collar Castleford Trench Coat is the ultimate heritage investment piece. Crafted in England from weather-resistant gabardine, this coat marries traditional craftsmanship with iconic British style.
It features the brand’s signature check lining, epaulettes, a storm flap, and a belted waist, which make it instantly recognisable and endlessly wearable. Designed for longevity, its timeless cut and neutral colour make it a cornerstone of any capsule wardrobe.
Whether worn over a crisp shirt and trousers or thrown on with jeans and boots, this trench coat instantly elevates your look and proves that some staples are truly forever.
Pros
- Iconic and timeless
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Weather-resistant gabardine fabric
Cons
- Luxury price point
8. Best Tailored Trousers: French Connection
Price: £69
These Harrie Tailored Trousers from French Connection are as versatile as they are flattering. The high-rise waist elongates the legs and cinches in the silhouette, while the wide-leg cut adds just the right amount of structure and fluidity.
Whether you’re heading to the office, attending a dinner, or dressing down with a basic tee and trainers, these trousers bring a polished edge to any outfit.
Crafted in a midweight fabric that holds its shape beautifully, they come in five wearable colours, making it tempting to collect more than one pair.
Pros
- Elegant wide leg fit
- Available in 5 colours
- Great for smart occasions or everyday wear
Cons
- Faux back pockets only
9. Best Ankle Boots: Dune London
Price: £64 (sale price)
.A dependable pair of ankle boots can elevate any outfit, and the Dune Pertile Leather Stacked Heel Ankle Boots strike the perfect balance between fashion-forward and functional. Made from premium leather in classic black with a smooth finish, they feature a classic almond toe and a comfortable stacked block heel that gives the right amount of lift.
The side zip makes them easy to slip on and off, while the sleek silhouette works with everything from cropped jeans to midi skirts.
Pros
- Stylish and versatile
- Comfortable 5cm heel
- Easy side zip closure
Cons
- Limited colour range
10. Best Trainers: New Balance
Price: £100
Blending retro style with modern tech, the New Balance 530s have earned cult status for a reason.
Designed with ABZORB cushioning in the midsole, they offer exceptional shock absorption and day-long comfort, whether you're running errands or out for a walk. The breathable mesh upper keeps things cool, while the chunky silhouette gives your look that laid-back, sporty edge.
Ideal for pairing with jeans, leggings or even tailored trousers for a high-low mix, the 530s are more than just a sneaker; they’re a streetwear staple in the making.
Pros
- ABZORB cushioning tech
- Breathable mesh upper
- Retro silhouette
Cons
- Chunkier design may not suit all outfits
11. Best Sunglasses: Celine
Price: £352 (sale price)
When it comes to luxury eyewear, few brands do it better than Celine.
The Celine CL40282U Triomphe Rectangle-Frame Acetate Sunglasses are a striking yet timeless piece. They feature a bold rectangular frame with strong lines that flatter a wide range of face shapes. Made from premium acetate, they include 100% UV protection and come with a protective case to keep them safe on the go.
The subtle Triomphe logo on the temples adds a quiet note of luxury, making these sunglasses the perfect finishing touch to both elevated basics and trend-driven looks. Think of them as a long-term style investment that’ll take your outfit from simple to statement in seconds.
Pros
- 100% UV protection
- Comes with hard case
- Timeless, face shape-flattering design
Cons
- Expensive
Want the Celine sunglasses look without the price tag? Check out our guide to the best Celine sunglasses dupes on the market.
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