While most of my work as a fashion editor revolves around spotting and reporting on seasonal trends, I like to think I have the ability to spot which items will eventually transition from trend pieces to authentic wardrobe staples. Mostly, it’s based on what I pull from my wardrobe every day—what seasonal pieces am I wearing the most these days? What are the gaps that I still need to fill?
So far, I’ve analyzed every 2026 trend and cross-referenced it with my own outfit rotation to come up with my ultimate spring shopping list, which is heavily edited and, most importantly, crafted with longevity in mind. I believe that having a strong assortment of great basics makes shopping feel less urgent to keep up with all the latest trends, so right now, I’m only interested in buying something new if I know it will still look fresh and trendy in the next two years.
With that in mind, discover my list of timeless (but still trendy) items to avoid splurging on in 2027 that I’m buying right now.
7 Best Timeless Wardrobe Basics
1. Dark denim
Every time I want to wear a pair of jeans, which is almost every day, I always reach for my dark wash first. The deep indigo color is a way to look polished with almost anything, whether it’s a white tee or heels and a leather jacket.
still here
everyday straight jeans
store controller
Reprise Straight-Leg Jeans
citizens of humanity
kimberly flare jeans
H&M
wide high ankle jeans
2. Smooth loafer
I don’t need to extol the benefits classic loafers have on a wardrobe, because if you regularly read Who Wears What, you already know they’re one of the most distinctive flat shoes you can buy. I’ll double down on that and say that once I invested in a great black leather pair for myself, my wardrobe felt 80% more complete, because flats look good with almost everything.
Celine
Aura Loafer in Goatskin
Madewell
Dolly Glove Loafer
banana Republic
Leather Mock-Toe Loafer
3. V-neck sweater
(Image credit: LaunchMetrics Spotlight/Lowe)
V-neck sweaters emerged as a major trend last fall and winter, and while I initially thought the trend would be over by spring, I’m realizing it’s only getting stronger and the style is becoming more of a staple than a seasonal item. Layering over a collared shirt or white tee is a great option, and Loewe’s spring runway made the sweater a case to wear with shorts even in warm weather.
Tory Burch
Wool V-Neck Sweater
&Daughter
Sligo Wool Sweater
j crew
Cashmere High V-Neck Sweater
4. Single-breasted trench coat
If you know me, you know I’ve added This men’s car coat A few months ago I went into my closet and since then I have rarely shut up about it. The single-breasted silhouette and billowy shape has surprisingly filled a lot of gaps in my wardrobe, and I find myself reaching for it without stopping as a final layer over everything from denim to leggings.
cornice
X Jasmine wore Lena Car coat
Sam Edelman
mac single breasted coat
5. Bowler Bag
Some handbag shapes can really change their way in and out of different occasions and personal style aesthetics, but retro bowler bags can certainly do so. Their top-handle shape gives an outfit a healthy dose of polish and for me personally, the ultimate goal is the soft leather of The Row agnes bag.
store controller
Montmartre Bowling Bag
Jacquemus
Le Petit Turismo Leather Bowling Bag
Mansour Gabriel
Helios Shoulder Bag
Lifner
Mini Leather Bowling Crossbody Bag
6. Pencil Skirt
All eyes are on Caroline Bessette-Kennedy’s minimalist style as FX launches love storyAnd while many of her capsule-wardrobe pieces are worthy investments in your forever wardrobe, none feel as timeless (yet) on time) as a column skirt. style with one mulespump, or knee boots To simulate the atmosphere of the 90s.
Improvement
fleur linen skirt
Improvement
Veda Cole Low Waist Leather Maxi Skirt
Aritzia
chiseled maxi skirt
7. Almond Flat
The not-quite-pointy but perfectly rounded shape of almond flats makes them feel both casual enough to wear with denim and chic enough to complement a pair of tailored trousers. Case in point: In 2026, everyone from off-duty models to the most beautiful dressers in L.A. match And Paris have fully embraced almond-toe shoes, and their outfits are making a strong case for why shoe trend Deserves to earn a forever spot on our shoe rack.
Loro Piana
Rebecca Leather Ballet Flats
jeffrey campbell
pointed pointed toe flat
everlane
Almond-toe flats made in Italy
