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Shop October 2, 2025

Go back to basics with these stylish wardrobe staples

PHOTO: 'InStyle' best of basics
Old Navy, J.Crew, Loft, Levi's, Madewell
'InStyle' best of basics

We all love a new fashion trend, but learning to style classic wardrobe staples is fundamental to a long-lasting, versatile wardrobe.

InStyle Editor-in-Chief Sally Holmes recently shared with "Good Morning America" the "best basics that prove simple pieces can be the most stylish," including a button-down shirt, a rollneck sweater and a pair of wide leg jeans, among other finds.

Not only did Holmes select must-have items for your wardrobe, she also shared all of her creative styling hacks to make each piece feel special.

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The button-down shirt

"When it comes to wardrobe staples, a classic button-down shirt is non-negotiable," Holmes told "GMA" in an email, adding that it can be worn multiple ways for different occasions.

Holmes chose this Old Navy shirt that is under $25 and comes in multiple colors.

"Styling it is all about the small tweaks: Roll the cuffs, push up the sleeves, tuck it, untuck it," she said. "It adapts to the mood and occasion."

The sweater

For this, Holmes selected the J.Crew 2025 Rollneck sweater, calling it the "it-girl sweater of the season."

The J.Crew Rollneck first launched in 1988 and was recently brought back and refreshed for 2025.

Its oversized fit and mockneck give it a "casual but polished vibe," Holmes said.

"It's the definition of timeless style with a modern update," she added.

The wide leg jean

"Jeans are probably our most utilized and hardworking piece in our wardrobes, and in recent years, wide leg styles have become a must-have," Holmes said.

Holmes recommends this soft LOFT pair, noting that the wash you choose will influence your look: "A lighter, vintage-inspired wash feels effortless and relaxed, while a darker, more structured wash can look sharp and office-ready," she said.

Holmes suggests styling this pair with a slim retro sneaker or a loafer and avoiding anything too bulky.

The denim jacket

"The Levi's Original Trucker is the gold standard," Holmes said. "It hasn't changed since 1967, which is why it still feels authentic and timeless."

Style it with a pair of jeans for an effortless ensemble.

"Wearing a denim jacket with jeans is the recipe for an amazing outfit, regardless of how 'in' a denim suit is or isn't at the current moment," Holmes added.

The dress

This LOFT strappy midi dress is ideal for creating multiple looks in your everyday wardrobe. It's made with a ribbed knit fabric that "makes it feel modern and flattering without being fussy," Holmes said.

"It's also one of those true chameleon pieces: Layer it with a blazer and loafers for the office, sneakers and a denim jacket for the weekend, or heels and jewelry for dinner," she added. "When a piece can flex across all parts of your life, it becomes indispensable."

The everyday tote

Madewell's bags continue to remain popular among the fashionable crowd, and this suede tote is "the definition of a workhorse bag: practical, chic, and versatile enough to go everywhere with you," Holmes said.

It comes in multiple colors to best suit your wardrobe and is less than $200.

Style it with jeans and a trench coat or with a pencil skirt and sweater.

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