Basics are the foundation of any wardrobe, they’re the pieces we wear the most so shouldn’t we love them and be excited to wear them? We believe you shouldn’t settle when it comes to any of the pieces in your wardrobe, especially the ones you wear all the time. A fast-fashion cotton t-shirt may do the job, but you could also go with the softer, sustainably made t-shirt with a reversible neckline. The latter will feel better on, last longer, and provide more styling options.

We’re making the case for better basics - the classic wardrobe staples you look great and feel great in. The basics that you’re excited to wear and are able to style endless ways. Because with good basics, you will always have endless options.

So what makes a better basic? We encourage you to look at the fabric and construction to make sure the piece will last for years and is comfortable. Fit is also incredibly important as well as versatility. When you invest in basics, if it doesn’t fit you perfectly and you can’t see yourself wearing it a lot, it’s not the right one.

We put together a list of high-quality women’s essentials that are made to last. Below are 10 classic clothing styles that are versatile, stylish, comfortable and will make you excited to open your closet in the morning.

1) White T-Shirt

(Encircled Fair Crew Neck Tee)

No surprise here, at the top of the list is a truly timeless style - a basic white t-shirt. One of the easiest pieces to layer and style given the neutral colour and simple cut, a white t-shirt is a year-round staple in any wardrobe. Keep it casual by pairing it with jeans or dress it up with trousers and heels - there are truly endless ways to style a white tee. Plus, with so many different styles, boxy, crew neck, v-neck, this piece works for everyone.

2) Blazer

(Encircled Unblazer)

A blazer is a core piece in any women's workwear wardrobe, but it’s also a great piece in an everyday wardrobe for easily dressing up a look. Traditional blazers tend to feel stiff and restrictive, so we recommend opting for a boyfriend blazer in a comfy fabric, like our Unblazer, which is made from soft, stretchy bamboo and merino wool fabric.

3) The Perfect Pair of Denim

(YOGA Jeans)

We all know that jeans are a wardrobe essential, but what’s harder to find is the perfect pair of denim. We’re talking about jeans in your ideal wash, cut, fit and fabric. If you’re not excited to throw on your jeans, they’re probably not your perfect pair. When looking for denim, we recommend picking a pair with a lower percentage of spandex, as denim with higher amounts of spandex tend to wear out and lose their shape quicker - you wouldn’t want to find your perfect pair of jeans only to have to replace them or search for a new pair again in a year.

4) Loungewear Set

(Encircled Fair Cloud Terry Jogger Set)

Matching jogger sets have taken off in popularity over the past year and for good reason. They’re incredibly comfortable and they take all the work out of choosing an outfit while still looking effortlessly stylish.

5) Little Black Dress

(Encircled Revolve Dress)

Another timeless piece we couldn’t leave off this list is a little black dress. Versatility is an important factor in selecting your little black dress. Investing in one dress that can be easily dressed up and down for different occasions will save you money and space in your closet - quality over quantity. For example, our Revolve Dress can be worn 6 different ways and the classic silhouette allows for plenty of room to dress it up or down with shoes and accessories.

6) Cozy Cardigan

(Encircled Comfy Puff Sleeve Cardigan)

A cozy cardigan is the year-round wardrobe essential we all need. From cool summer nights to chilly fall mornings, having a layer that can be thrown on top of a work outfit or casual brunch look is key.

7) Comfortable Work Pant

(Encircled Dressy Sweatpant)

Dress pants are often made out of uncomfortable, stiff fabrics like polyester. Dress pants so comfortable you could sleep in them is a basic so many women are lacking in their wardrobe. Our Dressy Sweatpants are a best-seller for a reason, made from 4-way stretch modal fabric yet dressy enough for work, you won’t be able to go back to polyester after these.

8) White Button-Up

(Encircled Comfy Button-Up Shirt)

Button-up shirts are another timeless style that you don’t have to worry about ever looking dated. They look great styled casually with jeans or dressed up for work, so they easily check off the versatility box. If you’re looking for one with a little more stretch to it then the classic cotton button-up, try our Comfy Button-Up which is made from soft, stretchy modal fabric.

9) Comfy Bralette

(Proclaim Tencel Bralette)

Tired of uncomfortable bras? It’s time to try a bralette. They can be just as supportive as a traditional bra, but way more comfortable. We’re fans of this one from Proclaim that’s ethically- made from soft, sustainable Tencel fabric.

10) Legging

(Encircled Dressy Legging)

Last but not least is leggings. We want to distinguish between a workout legging and everyday legging. Workout leggings are typically made from polyester and they have a more compressive fit. For everyday, we recommend investing in a softer pair like our Dressy Legging. Made from super-soft bamboo blend fabric, these leggings are designed to be dressed up or down for more ways to wear