We’ve all experienced that feeling of having plenty of clothes but nothing to wear. Those are the moments when having some trusty style basics would be super handy. So naturally, we asked around to find what basics are necessary to have in your closet, and here are the six pieces collegiettes say are essential.
1. Camisoles
Chances are you already have this staple. They are perfect for layering and come in a ton of different colors. Even if you don’t have every color under the sun, it’s definitely good to have a couple in white, black and/or a nude tone. Sophia Liu, a recent graduate of Smith College, loves these because they are amazing all year round. You can layer them when it’s cold or wear them as is in the warmer months (or whenever you want, honestly). These are a wardrobe must-have!
2. Plain black t-shirts
There truly is nothing better than just a plain black t-shirt that fits your shape beautifully. It’s so easy to dress up a tee with a pair of slacks or nice black jeans and layered necklaces. Plus, there are endless options for what you can layer on top of it. But it’s also super easy to keep casual. Having the option to go either way is what Jana Brzovski, a sophomore at Marist College, loves about it. She says her go-to look is a black shirt with Calvin Klein jeans. What’s not to love about a top that can do both?
Related: 9 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Splurging on Clothes
3. Cardigans
Cardigans are the ultimate basic in a collegiette’s closet. Rachelle Clousing, a junior at Belmont University, loves them because they’re perfect for layering, and she can take it off if she starts to feel warm. Cardigans pair well with so many different outfits, and they are great for when it’s chilly in the morning and toasty in the afternoon – and they’re super cute.
4. Bralettes
Bralettes are honestly so much fun because they add intrigue to any look. Liz Warner, a junior at the University of Iowa, specifically recommends the Heartbreaker Bralette by Free People because “it goes amazing under anything and is very smooth, so shirts don’t look weird over it,” she says. Plus, bras are expensive AF, and we deserve to show them off a little!
5. Skinny jeans
When it comes to pants, so many collegiettes say skinny jeans are a must-have in your closet! Whether they’re Calvin Klein or a vintage find, it seems that skinny jeans are a necessity. Sarah Shevenock, a graduate of The College of William and Mary, mentioned that she, like so many of us, has a hard time finding great skinny jeans that fit just right, so she recommends Target’s skinny jeans because they “are a fantastic basic dark wash jean for anyone who needs jeans with a little more stretch.” And honestly, who doesn’t want a little more stretch in their jeans, right?
6. V-necks
These are a necessity, especially because they are super easy to get. Sarah says that Target now offers some great v-necks, among other amazing basics. Even better: these v-necks are available in so many sizes, so everyone can find their perfect fit. And honestly, the biggest confidence boost can come from wearing something that fits your body beautifully.
Sometimes in life, simple really is better. And with these style basics, you can be as casual or as extra as you want.