42 Wardrobe Basics Under $100—Affordable Wardrobe Essentials

When it comes to fashion, there is so much to play with, all of the time—from new-season color trends and modern outerwear (like scarf coats and oversized shearling) to party wear for the holiday season, including velvet and contemporary draped tops. But, no matter which trend you choose to indulge in, there is still a core list of essentials that every wardrobe requires. Without these basics, no closet is complete. Luckily, there are plenty of them on the market today, and we have found essential styles all under $100.

Vogue’s Ultimate Under-$100 Basics Edit:

• The Plain White Tee: Everybody.world tailored trash tee, $44
• The Long-Sleeve Layer: H&M fitted cotton top, $10
• The Everyday Tank: Skims cotton rib tank top, $38
• The Striped Shirt: Madewell Easy y-neck button-up shirt, $88
• The Simple V-Neck: Gap Cashsoft high v-neck sweater, $70
• The Pointelle Top: Leset pointelle-knit cotton-jersey tank, $78
• The Coveted Jeans: Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans, $98
• The Cold-Weather Tights: Uniqlo HeatTech knitted tights, $20
• The White Poplin: J.Crew Étienne oversized shirt, $98
• The Layering Piece: Aritzia HomeStretch crew longsleeve, $35

Although we put an emphasis on leather midiskirts and cinched blazers as part of our everyday rotation here at Vogue, it’s those sweet, sweet necessary basics that serve as the tasty ingredients to our cake tiers. We’ve covered all ground, from classic white T-shirts and layerable tank tops, to essential knits like crewnecks and casual V-neck sweaters. We’ve also got you on the denim front, with favorites from Everlane, Zara, Gap and more. All that and more affordable basics for under $100, ahead.

Tank Tops

What looks good paired with a tank top? The answer is, basically, everything. However, when winter rolls around the tank top becomes a layering tool rather than a focal point. From Éterne to Leset, use yours as a base beneath cardigans, cashmere sweaters, and boxy blazers.

Long-Sleeved T-Shirts

The best affordable long-sleeved T-shirts serve as more than just an undershirt. With the crop of options available now, it’s clear that these tees are meant to be seen. Take Kule’s for example—the red stripes would look so chic poking out from beneath a tonal knit or ladylike jacket. For tried-and-true classics in cotton, look to James Perse, Aritizia, and Splits59.

T-Shirts

Every wardrobe needs an arsenal of T-shirts for a variety of different occasions. There’s the lounge-around-the-house tee, from Skims and Cos. Then, there are the T-shirts ideal for summer and early fall dressing, like Banana Republic’s and J.Crews—they tuck so easily into high-rise trousers and skirts.

Button-Down Shirts

When it comes to wardrobe staples, a white button-up shirt is as classic as it gets. But these days, a crisp, poplin shirt has range. Discover Madewell’s striped and Uniqlo’s pale blue 100% cotton options, Zara’s chocolate brown shirt with a rounded hem, and Everlane’s oversized black iteration, crafted from Tencel. You’d probably catch the Olsen twins sporting one of these styles while browsing around New York.

Knitwear

While knitwear is an essential for the winter, they can also lean quite expensive. Never fear, there is an affordable sweater that is just as chic as it is well made, below. Try Cos’s cotton-linen style, Everlane’s organic dropped shoulder style, or Gap’s tried-and-true grey knit.

Jeans

In the world of affordable basics, denim is perhaps the most transitional. From morning to night, and from summer to winter, the best denim spans a variety of silhouettes and washes. Looking to replace your beloved high-rise dark wash pair? Mango has the answer! For the trending crossover closure, look to Zara. And, for a mid-weight medium wash that will outlast all trends, opt for Levi’s.

Tights & Socks

Come fall and winter, socks and tights are fundamental. Wolford, Uniqlo, and Commando are a go-to brand for many Vogue editors—their tights are so high-quality and soft. Another must-have affordable basic? A pair of socks! Although these category isn’t as glamorous, it’s still needed for winter boots, loafers, and knee-high styles. Look to Deiji Studios and Johnstons of Elgin for perfect everyday picks.