Basically Essential
Basics and essentials, what are the differences and similarities, and a list of a few of my favorite brands.
Essentials and basics. What are the differences and similarities? Is there really a difference, or are they all the same?
Is a white button-down shirt a basic or an essential? Depends. I know. It can be confusing. I often see designer brands referring to some of their products as basics, and honestly, it bothers me. Why would you call something elevated that you designed a basic? When it comes to your brand image, choosing the right words is very important and can make all the difference. You must give your work more credit. Now, basics can also be luxurious. Think of a t-shirt from The Row. In my professional opinion, if you're designing beautiful white button-down shirts with exciting silhouettes and exceptional detailing, please call them essentials or, at the very least, elevated basics.
Basics
Basic refers to something fundamental or foundational. Often used as a starting point or a building block for more complex concepts. It is the simplest form of something. Basics in fashion are simple pieces in neutral colors and plain silhouettes that work with almost anything. Basics are the supporting players in your wardrobe. They provide a variety of wardrobe combinations and go well with other statement pieces that give your wardrobe a lot of style.
Essential
Essential refers to something absolutely necessary or indispensable. It is the core or critical component of something, without which it cannot function or exist. All basics are essentials, but not all essentials are basic. These are the things in your wardrobe that you can't live without, things that bring your style to life. These are not basics. They will not go with everything and maximize your wardrobe's versatility. These items are meant to bring your style to life.
Basic means fundamental or necessary, while essential is absolutely necessary or crucial. But what is absolutely necessary? Depends. That is the beauty of personal style. What is absolutely necessary for me might not be for you, and vice versa. Basic and essentials can have different meanings for different women. For some women, a cashmere hoodie is essential; for others, it's a tulle dress; and for others, it's a pair of colorful sneakers.
For me, a white T-shirt is basic. Suppose it's a white T-shirt from The Row. In that case, it's an elevated basic; it's necessary for great style but not absolutely necessary. In fact, I rarely wear a white T-shirt. On the other hand, a striped T-shirt from COS is both a basic and an essential. It is fundamental and absolutely necessary.
The most important thing is to define what basic and essential means to you and ensure that your wardrobe includes a mix of both.
Because sharing is caring, below are a few of my favorite brands for basics and essentials.
Alex Mill
I have a lot of favorites from Alex Mill, but the jumpsuits are number one on my list. Like their latest campaign says, you can do anything in a jumpsuit. Other favorites include cashmere socks and sweaters, and men’s button-down shirts.
COS
I think COS is one of the places where I shop the most because the design is good, quality is outstanding, and the prices are budget friendly. I have many favorites, including pillowcase dresses, wide-leg tailored pants, long sleeve striped t-shirts, and everything cashmere.
J.Crew
I've been a massive fan of J.Crew for years, with a brief pause after Jena Lyons left, but now they are back to making some really great stuff. Their Fall lookbook is hot! Some of my favorite J.Crew items include classic trench coats, and statement tops, which is basically embellished classic shirting. A button down with twist.
Tibi
If I could buy everything Tibi, I would. I’ve bought some really good pieces on sale or on their online outlet. Although one must be quick because good stuff sells out quick! Two of my favorites are the Liam Blazers, and Nylon Joggers.
Rachel Comey
Rachel Comey is the quintessential cool girl brand that makes wardrobe essentials that are by no means basic. Everything Rachel Comey elevates an outfit and delivers excellent style. My favorites are the everyday dresses and jumpsuits.
Roucha
I discovered Roucha not long ago via Instagram. I bought this shirt, and it’s truly extraordinary. Every time I wear to it elevates my outfit, and everyone compliments me on my shirt. Now I want to get it in this color too.
Toteme
All I have to say is that I dream of Toteme. A few years ago, I bought a Khaki Toteme Dress at the now closed Want Apothecary store in New York. One day I left it inside the car, and someone broke the window and stole everything inside, including my beloved dress. I’m still grieving the loss, lol!
I think that’s it for today guys. I mean, I could keep in going. I could add Küle, La Ligne, and even get fancy with Jil Sander, and The Row, but it’s late and I’m tired, and this post needs to end. Stay tuned because next Sunday I’m thinking about sharing some ideas on how to wear basic and essentials with statement pieces to create some awesome looks.
Love you! Stay cool.
xoxo
MC
Yes to all of these! Do we share the same brain/closet?