Presenting: The 8 Basics You'll Want to Have on Lock in 2021

We're naming the items that are set to be the best basics for 2021. Peruse the edit and shop our picks here.

Presenting: The 8 Basics You'll Want to Have on Lock in 2021

Ready for a fresh dose of basics? Well, seeing as you're reading Who What Wear already and you found your way into this story, I'm going to assume that's a resounding yes. There's no question that we're keen on wardrobe basics here seeing as we're always discussing them and highlighting where to find the best versions. So you didn't think we'd skip the opportunity to report on the latest batch of basics descending on us this year, did you?

Nope, we're taking this chance to talk about the best basics 2021 has in store for us, and—newsflash—they're really good. From the updated suiting separates we've been seeing on the S/S 21 runways to the cardigans that fashion girls have already begun wearing nonstop, continue on to discover the eight new staples you're about to see a lot more in the coming year. Of course, if you're so inspired to shop, I'm featuring my favorite versions here too.

1. PUDDLE TROUSERS

Suiting separates have been around for a minute now but this year, we're about to see one specific item take hold and that's what I'm calling puddle trousers. The runways confirm that these extra-relaxed and slouchy trousers will reign supreme.

Topshop Wide Leg Trousers ($45)

Bella Freud Angie Pleated Cotton-Twill Wide-Leg Pants ($310)

COS Relaxed Checked Recycled Wool Pants ($135)

2. COLLARED KNITS

Photo:
@matildadjerf; Pictured: Calle Del Mar **Ribbed-Knit Cardigan** ($395)

There's something that feels so fresh about a collared sweater. The detail is a relatively small addition but somehow transforms even basic pullovers into something much more current and cool. I think we're only going to see more of the style, so I suggest you secure one stat if you haven't already.

Calle Del Mar + Net Sustain Ribbed-Knit Cardigan ($395)

Mango Polo Neck Sweater ($80)

Rumours NYC Button Down ($58)

3. MINI SKIRTS

After several seasons of longer hemlines, mini skirts are finally returning to the scene. We spotted a slew of these simple micro minis on the S/S 21 runways—from Miu Miu to LaQuan Smith—which tells me that it's a basic worth adding to your closet now.

Gauge81 Monteria Skirt ~~( $305)~~ $183

Zara Mini Skirt With Slit ($40)

Mango Belt Miniskirt ($80)

4. GRANDPA CARDIGANS

Photo:
**@brooklynngallagher**; Pictured: Who What Wear **Cardigan** ($26)

Even though we once considered them a trend piece, cardigans are basically a wardrobe staple now and the specific styles we're about to see more of are these slightly longer chunky knits ("grandpa" sweaters, if you will) that might even eclipse cropped cardigans.

Staud Blake Pointelle-Knit Cotton-Blend Cardigan ($315)

Who What Wear Cardigan ~~( $37)~~ $26

Caslon Rib Knit Cardigan ~~( $79)~~ $47

5. SLEEVELESS TURTLENECKS

Is it 2021 or the '90s? Fashion's favorite decade to take inspiration from is back yet again, this time delivering a basic we can already see ourselves wearing on repeat: sleeveless turtlenecks. Keep it simple like Camille did here and wear one with trousers and a shoulder bag.

The Range Sleeveless Turtleneck Tank ($125)

The Drop Karolina Sleeveless Mock Neck Rib Sweater ($22)

Tibi Cutout Ribbed Wool Turtleneck Top ($265)

6. BLANKET COATS

Wearing a coat is no longer a burden when it's one of these luxurious wool toppers. With a relaxed shape, they honestly feel as comfortable as wrapping yourself in a blanket, but they're ultimately so chic. What's not to love?

Gauge81 Bodo Coat in Camel ($885)

Ba&sh Bonny Coat ~~( $695)~~ $417

Nordstrom Signature Cascade Collar Double Face Wool & Cashmere Coat ~~( $599)~~ $300

7. DERBY SHOES

If loafers were the trendy flats of 2020, then I'm calling it now: derby shoes are set to take their place in 2021. The lace-up shoes are especially cool with a platform sole and we suggest leaning into their academic vibe by styling them with tall socks and trousers.

Eytys Phoenix Oxfords ~~( $560)~~ $336

Zara Flat Platform Derby Shoes ($50)

Dr. Martens 1461 Bex Oxfords ($130)

Sincerely, Tommy Nicki Block Shoes ($102)

8. QUARTER-ZIPS

Photo:
@handinfire; Pictured: Isabel Marant Sweater

And now for the easiest item to wear on this list: quarter-zips. The pullover is undeniably having a moment right now and we've been spotting them all over, whether it be designer versions like the Isabel Marant sweater pictured above or simpler takes featured on Nordstrom and Shopbop.