The Special Basics Every 30-Something Should Own

Whether I realized it or not at the time, I spent my 20s building a wardrobe of basic clothes that I could wear for work, travel, going out, and working out. Now that I’m in my 30s, and tend to stick to the basics that I know and love, I’m focusing on building a wardrobe of special basics. These are those pieces that are as versatile as the tees, denim, outerwear, and shoes that fall into the basics category, but with something unique about them. It could be something as simple as the color or a special detail that sets it apart from the rest.

So why did I come to the conclusion that these are the special basics a 30-something needs? While obviously, people of any age can wear them, I’ve found that these types of items are the ones I wear the most (and get the most compliments on) in my 30s, a time when I’ve been seeking more polish in my wardrobe but with minimal effort. I don’t need a special occasion to wear them, but they feel special and cool when I need them to.

Sound like something you could use too? Shop the special basics every 30-something should own below.

Despite having several neutral blazers in my closet, the one that’s a pretty color is the one I reach for the most, as it can instantly turn a boring outfit into a great outfit. Available in sizes XS to XL.

A pair of cool hoops that can be worn with literally everything I own are priceless.

You can wear black pants, or you can kick things up a notch and wear black leather pants. I’m going with the latter. Available in sizes 24 to 32.

You already own a denim jacket. Maybe even more than one. So why not freshen up your wardrobe with a white denim jacket. Trust me—you’ll be surprised by how much wear you get out of it. Available in sizes XXS to XXL.

Life is too short for boring LBDs. Choose one that’ll actually make you excited to wear a black dress. Available in sizes UK4 to 14.

Leopard print is more of a neutral than you’d think, and it even pairs well with other prints. The only time I’ve ever felt the need to switch out my leopard-print bag is when I’m wearing something else that’s animal print.

I don’t have the patience to find the perfect vintage jeans, so I’m happy that brands like Re/Done make it easy to find jeans that at least look authentically vintage. Available in sizes 24 to 30.

Of all the special basics on this list, a pretty white top is one of the most versatile. It’s undoubtedly a summertime staple. Available in sizes XS to L.

I’ve realized in my 30s that a cool belt can transform an outfit, making it 10 times cooler than before. This is the one I currently have my eye on. Available in sizes 70 to 105.

Slip skirts are one of the most wearable ’90s trends around, and it’s a trend that’s classic enough to stick around for awhile. Available in sizes P to L.

Believe it or not, I find myself wearing a cool graphic tee more often than a plain white tee, as they’re significantly more fun to wear. Available in sizes XS to L.

This universally flattering dress style is made all the more special when it’s in an eye-catching print. Available in sizes XS to L.

Since we’re all constantly holding our phones, why not get one that’s nice to look at? (The Daily Edited is my current favorite source.)

High-waisted black leggings are the most flattering leggings, and I especially love the ones that have something a special details the makes them stand out. Available in sizes 1X to 3X.

I spent a couple decades wearing jean shorts and/or a T-shirt as my swim cover-up, but I’ve finally discovered the power of a chic one that looks like I tried (in a good way). Available in sizes XXS to XXL.

I love shoes that are neutral but have something completely different and unique about them. This is something I seek in every type of shoe, from heels to sneakers. Available in sizes 5 to 11.

Available in men’s sizes 4 to 9.