Contemporary Elevated Basics
Here's the contemporary elevated basics edit — the pieces actually worth your time, each linked straight to where you can shop it.
How to choose contemporary elevated basics
When you're shopping contemporary elevated basics, lead with fit and fabric, then color — the pieces that work hardest are the ones you'll actually reach for.
The edit
Lioness Penny asymmetric button detail relaxed leg jeans in pink $110
Lioness Penny asymmetric jeans in pink — Lioness brings a playful update to relaxed-leg denim with an asymmetric waistband and bold button detailing. A statement bottom for the fashion-forward woman who loves color.
- Best for the everyday rotation you actually live in
- Wear it with tucked into a simple tee, or with a heel when you want to dress it up
- Fit size by the waist; a touch of stretch keeps it comfortable all day
Shop Lioness Penny asymmetric button detail relaxed leg jeans in pink →
JW PEI Thea top handle bag in white $156
JW PEI Thea top handle bag in white — the cult sustainable accessories brand delivers a clean, structured bag with the sleek aesthetic of much pricier pieces. Perfect for elevating any outfit from casual to put-together.
- Best for the days you want one less thing to think about
- Wear it with with everything; a clean shape quietly lifts a simple outfit
- Fit check the strap drop and that it actually holds your daily stuff
Ghospell round neck puff sleeve asymmetric hem floaty top in lilac $137
Ghospell puff sleeve floaty top in lilac — whimsical puff sleeves and an asymmetric hem on a soft lilac fabric. Easy to dress up with tailored trousers or down with white denim; a versatile elevated basic.
- Best for the easy half of an outfit you can repeat all week
- Wear it with tucked into denim, or under a blazer when you want it sharper
- Fit check the fabric — the ones that aren't see-through earn their keep
Shop Ghospell round neck puff sleeve asymmetric hem floaty top in lilac →
ARKET linen mix wrap skirt in red $109
ARKET linen mix wrap skirt in bold red — Scandinavian minimalism meets a statement color. A breathable linen-mix fabric in a classic wrap silhouette: the season's most versatile skirt, effortlessly styled up or down.
- Best for building outfits you can put on without thinking
- Wear it with with a tucked-in knit and a flat, or a heel to lengthen the line
- Fit mind the rise and the fabric drape — they decide how polished it reads
Ghospell Zuma embellished high rise straight leg pants in dark green $172
Ghospell Zuma embellished straight-leg pants in dark green — part of a coordinating set with rich jewel-tone embellishment detail. A high-waisted straight leg cut in a versatile dark green that works seasonally. Sold as a set.
- Best for building outfits you can put on without thinking
- Wear it with with a tucked-in knit and a flat, or a heel to lengthen the line
- Fit mind the rise and the fabric drape — they decide how polished it reads
Shop Ghospell Zuma embellished high rise straight leg pants in dark green →
ARKET cotton funnel neck utility jacket in white $173
ARKET cotton funnel neck utility jacket in white — the Scandinavian label's take on utility outerwear: clean lines, a sculpted funnel neck, and pure cotton in a crisp white. Elevates any outfit with effortless sophistication.
- Best for the layer that finishes everything you already own
- Wear it with thrown over a tee and jeans, or a dress to make it look intentional
- Fit look for a clean shoulder and enough room to layer underneath
Topshop faux leather cropped bomber jacket with patch pocket in washed green $129
Topshop faux leather cropped bomber in washed green — a cool-toned, slightly worn-in green on a classic cropped bomber silhouette. The patch pocket detail adds a utilitarian edge; pairs with everything from jeans to slip dresses.
- Best for the layer that finishes everything you already own
- Wear it with thrown over a tee and jeans, or a dress to make it look intentional
- Fit look for a clean shoulder and enough room to layer underneath
Shop Topshop faux leather cropped bomber jacket with patch pocket in washed green →
See the full list on Benable
See my full contemporary elevated basics edit on Benable →
Frequently asked questions
What should I look for in contemporary elevated basics?
Start with fit and fabric, then color and how it works with what you already own.
Are these contemporary elevated basics worth the price?
Each pick is chosen to look more expensive than it is — quality and versatility over hype.
Do the links go straight to the product?
Yes — every link takes you directly to the retailer's product page to shop it.
Related edits
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