We love following the latest trends. We also can’t resist a good statement piece. But what everyone really needs in their wardrobe isn’t the newest thing in fashion — it’s more reliable basics.
But don’t mistake “reliable” for boring or frumpy; just ask style expert Melissa Garcia, who stopped by the 3rd hour of TODAY to share which pieces to consider while updating your spring attire. You know: throw-on-and-go garments that will have you running out the door looking chic without even trying.
This season, she’s recommending pieces you’ll be tempted to wear daily, including classic denim jackets, “softer than soft” sweatpants (per the brand) and, we’re already calling it, your new everyday sneaker. Check out our recommended basics below to start elevating your look.
Fashion basics seen on the 3rd hour of TODAY
Uniqlo Supima Cotton T-Shirt
One should never underestimate the power of a well-fitted tee. It might just be the most versatile piece in your closet. Thankfully, Uniqlo created a tee you won’t mind centering all your outfits around. It comes in 13 colors and unisex sizes ranging from XXS to 3XL, plus it’s made from Supima cotton for an extra-smooth and -soft feel.
Old Navy High-Waisted Sleektech Joggers
Old Navy just introduced a new fabric just in time for spring. These joggers feature SleekTech, a material the brand describes as stretchy, breathable and polished. The lightweight pants, or as Garcia calls it “an elevated sweat,” have almost 4,000 five-star ratings, with reviewers raving about their comfortable feel and flattering fit — did we mention they come in sizes XS-4X?
Gap VintageSoft Joggers
If you prefer comfortable clothing above all else, it sounds like you won’t be disappointed by these pants. Described by Gap as offering “cloud-like comfort,” these joggers are designed to feel as good as they look (and you won’t be disappointed by that either). Garcia says you can expect them to be as soft as your favorite hoodie. The brand also notes they use special techniques to make the fleece feel lived-in soft. Paired with the Uniqlo tee mentioned above, and you’ll have the perfect casual-chic outfit ready to go.
Levi’s Women’s Original Trucker Jacket
Is there anything more spring than a jean jacket? Garcia says it’s a timeless style that works year-round, but when the weather starts to warm up, it’s a cute option to pair with a maxi dress. Plus, can you name a cooler denim brand than Levi’s?
Levi’s Men’s Denim Trucker Jacket
Garcia also says the men’s version of this trucker jacket might be one of the most versatile items for your closet, as it’s a no-brainer to pair with sweats, shorts and, for a double denim moment, jeans. This style comes in a range of colors and a variety of “special” (big, tall, big and tall).
Editor’s note: This Levi’s denim jacket is low in stock, if you don’t see your size, we found another pick that we think you’ll enjoy, too.
Wrangler Men’s Denim Trucker Jacket
Coming in three denim washes, the brand says this trucker jacket has a fit that allows you to layer if needed. Making it a great option no matter the season.
Skechers Hotshot Kickoff Sneakers
Our love for the award-winning brand, Skechers, runs deep. It’s because they keep delivering on footwear that meet the style and comfort requirements to become everyday go-to shoes. Like these sneakers, which will be a great pair to have when temperatures start to rise since they feature an air-cooled memory foam insole, which is designed to keep your feet cool and cozy all day long.
Adidas Daily 4.0 Men’s Shoes
Prefer a more classic, nostalgic style? The brand describes this sneaker as “the pair you’ll keep coming back to.” That probably has something to do with its clean design and soft lining to keep you comfortable. Garcia recommends grabbing these when you want a more laid-back, but still professional, look at the office.
Inicat Travel Sling Bag
If the over 8,000 five-star ratings don’t convince you to grab this travel bag ASAP, then take it from a Shop TODAY editor who regularly sings its praises. The No. 1 bestselling crossbody comes in two sizes (small and large) and a wide variety of colors. Garcia adds that there are even a few RFID-blocking options if security is a top priority for you during your travels.
Hawanik Air Tag Wallet
According to Garcia, a popular trend among men these days is slimmer, more minimalist wallets. This option is compact enough to slip into your front pocket for easy access, but its storage capacity is still functional — it holds up to six cards, an ID and bills, and also has a built-in holder for an AirTag.
- Apple AirTag $22.99 (was $29)
- Apple AirTag 4 Pack $69.99 (was $99)
More to shop
Top Level Unisex Baseball Cap
It doesn’t get more basic than a classic cap. And while this style may look simple, its minimalist design is exactly what makes it a must-have in your spring wardrobe. The single colorway lends to its versatility, allowing you to easily pair it with practically any ‘fit. Plus, it offers sun protection that everyone will benefit from.
Fairwin Men’s Ratchet Web Belt
Once he adds this belt to his collection, he’ll never want to go back to traditional styles. What makes this one stand out is its hole-less design, meaning you can lock it in place anywhere on the strap. It’s also made from nylon, which is said to be breathable and water-resistant.
Vonmelli Women’s Belts (Pack of 3)
Your everyday belt can work wonders on all your spring outfits. With this three-pack, you’ll have the core neutral colors to pair with all your midi dresses, high-rise jeans, skirts and much more. Plus, the gold and/or silver detailing adds a chic touch.
Shinywear Detachable Collar
This fake collar is the fashion accessory workhorse you didn’t know you needed. Need to elevate a casual outfit? Just throw on this detachable dickey underneath a blouse or sweater to create an entirely new look!
Scoop Ultimate Refined Contour V-Neck Tee
We’ve already mentioned the importance of a basic crewneck tee, but you might also want to consider adding a few V-neck options to your shopping list as well. This $15 option from Walmart is form-fitting and said to offer a comfortable fit.
Yesteel Gold Hoop Earrings (9 Pairs)
When you don’t want to think about matching jewelry, these hoops make it an easy decision. This hoop earring set boasts nine pairs in all different sizes, shapes and designs. It’s a great pick for anyone with multiple piercings, too!
Dokotoo Men’s Crewneck Sweatshirt
Spring may be around the corner, but you’ll want to keep a nice sweater or two on hand during the transitional weather period. So, if you want to jazz things up, this crewneck adds texture to its design with a subtle geometric pattern woven into the fabric.
Grapent Flare Jeans
Flare jeans are trending so much these days that we think it’s appropriate to call the style a “basic” at this point. This pair from Amazon is a Shop TODAY favorite, with one contributing writer calling them one of the “comfiest pants I own.” She adds, “They don’t ride up the crotch or pinch at the waist; plus, they offer plenty of room in the butt. And they have so much stretch that I could easily do 10 squats in them.”
A New Day Short Sleeve Jumpsuit
Of course, you need at least one jumpsuit to add to the mix. Name a better one-and-done outfit! This one has an adjustable tie at the waist, a collared neckline (creating the perfect spot to show off a necklace stack) and cropped pant legs to show off sandals or a sleek pair of sneakers.
Real Essentials Collared Shirts (Pack of 3)
There’s not many garments that are as timeless as a men’s button-down, but the style doesn’t always guarantee comfort. According to its brand, this shirt is made to offer all-day comfort. So, you’ll look and feel good while at the office, a formal event and every occasion in between. Not to mention, you get three shirts for under $45.
Meet the experts
- Melissa Garcia is a professional stylist and the founder of Melissa Garcia Styling. She has experience working on national brand campaigns, appearing on major television broadcasts and hosting fashion events for commerce destinations. With a relatable approach and her own eye-catching personal style, Garcia has become a go-to fashion resource in American media.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.
link