Everyone needs a handful of timeless staples in their closet. You know, the pieces that never go out of style, the ones you reach for time and time again, the ones you can mix and match with louder items, dress up with heels and jewelry or down with sneakers and a scrunchie.
Of course, for clothes to win the honored label of "closet staple" they should be comfortable and practical. Now, this doesn't mean boring. In fact, staples can come in neutrals or be in fun signature prints or colors. Right now sage is having a major moment in fashion and you'll find varying shades in every store you shop. A staple also doesn't mean just plain white T-shirts and slacks. It can include jumpsuits, joggers, body-con dresses, and more. But we've also included classic items that belong in every "capsule wardrobe" — like trench coats, blazers, and V-neck tees.
Here, we've rounded up a collection of our favorite wardrobe staples on the web. The best part? They are all incredibly affordable. Nothing is over $55 and some items are as low as $6.99. That's because we've sourced from our favorite budget-friendly online stores: Old Navy, Lulus, Forever 21, and H&M. These stores carry a huge ever-changing selection of clothing, so we've done the digging for you. We were also sure to include items with a wide range of sizes to work for every body.
Keep scrolling to start shopping, these budget essentials promise to be favorites for many years to come. And just so you know Livingly may collect a share of sales from the links.
Waist-Defined Cropped Slub-Knit Cami Jumpsuit
Oh hi, cuteness! The cut of this jumpsuit is *chef's kiss* — it also comes in four equally fab colors: black, green, red, and animal print. Standard sizing can be found here and plus sizing is here. You'll see rave reviews on both listings!
One reviewer wrote: "I *may* have worn this several days in a row. So comfortable, so flattering, and perfect for us curvy yet short (I'm 5'1") peeps. Perfect for summer activities or paired with a shrug or cardigan for cool evenings. I will be purchasing in every color!"
SHOP NOW: Waist-Defined Cropped Slub-Knit Plus-Size Cami Jumpsuit, $37.99, Old Navy
Shop standard sizing here.
Midnight Lady Washed Denim Blue Midi Dress
This is an incredibly soft and comfortable dress with an airy fit, perfect for wearing alone on a summer day or layered when there's a breeze. It comes in two colors, denim blue and washed red. The sizes range from XS-XL.
One reviewer wrote: "This dress hangs so well on every body type. What's great about it is that the material is thin and feels almost silky, so it's great for a hot day. I wore it to Coachella and it was a dream (it was almost 100 degrees in the desert). I was probably the most covered up, but I think I may have been the most comfortable. I was able to dress it down with vans so I could walk all day and dance in it. Also paired it with a fanny pack and it looked OK! It's definitely a staple in my closet now. Also, I usually wear a Medium and a Small fit perfectly."
SHOP NOW: Midnight Lady Washed Denim Blue Midi Dress, $42, Lulus
Double-Breasted Blazer Jacket
Everyone needs at least one black blazer. H&M is a great resource for both fitted and boxy blazers like this one. The double-breasted look is on-trend right now but it truly is a classic that will never go out of style. This style comes in four colors (check out that lilac!) and sizes run from XS to XXL.
One reviewer wrote: "Beautiful blazer. Well made. Definitely an oversized look. Size down and still got that oversized looked without drowning in it."
SHOP NOW: Double-Breasted Blazer Jacket, $49.99, H&M
Kick It Forest Green High-Waisted Trouser Pants
Here's how you take your workwear up a notch — choose a timeless staple like these tailored pants but in a gorgeous color like this forest green. It comes in four other colors, as well, so if you love the fit as much as reviewers do, you should stock up.
One reviewer wrote: "These trousers are a wonderful addition to any office wardrobe! They are TRULY high waisted which is super flattering and they also give enough room in the crotch so you can move comfortably without anything riding up. I love these pants so much I bought them in 3 colors! The fabric is NOT stretchy so don't expect them to give you any slack!"
SHOP NOW: Kick It Forest Green High-Waisted Trouser Pants, $44, Lulus
Crop Pull-On Pants
How comfy and elegant do these pants look? They are flowy like a maxi-skirt with the functionality of pants. And reviewers LOVE them. They come in five colors/prints and sizes range from XS to XXL.
One reviewer wrote: "This might be my new favorite pair of bottoms! I love the stretchy waistband that molds to my waist whether I'm standing, sitting, eating a little too much, etc. They're also super airy and perfect for the summer weather! I'm 5'5" and these pants are the perfect length — they stop around my ankles."
SHOP NOW: Crop Pull-On Pants, $17.99, H&M
Plus Size Double-Breasted Coat
Of course we can't talk about closet staples without suggesting some trench coats. They really are as classic as people claim. This one comes in both a tan color and black to cover you for all occasions.
How the site describes it: "A woven trench coat featuring a double-breasted design, notched oversized lapels, shoulder epaulettes, long sleeves, and a belted waist. 92% rayon, 8% polyester. Model is 5'9" and wearing a Size 1X."
SHOP NOW: Plus Size Double-Breasted Coat, ON SALE for $24 (originally $49.99), Forever 21
Double-Breasted Duster Jacket
This dark olive color is a standout but still timeless, just like the cut of this trench coat. Don't you love how elegantly it drapes? It's a perfect transitional piece for spring or fall or even a cool summer night. It's offered in sizes S-L and also comes in black.
How the site describes it: "A lightweight woven duster jacket featuring a double breasted button front, notched lapels, long sleeves, partially elasticized waist, and a removable sash belt. Model is 5'7" and wearing a Small."
SHOP NOW: Double-Breasted Duster Jacket, ON SALE for $27.99, Forever 21
Basic Bae Washed Black Ribbed Bodycon Midi Dress
We can't talk basics without talking little black dresses! And this one in flawless. If you look closely, it has almost a denim texture to give it a casual vibe but it's still fancy enough for date night. Wear with stilettos or sandals! The size range is XXS-3X and there are two other color options to choose from.
One reviewer wrote: "Ok, I am in love with this dress. I ordered an XS and S to test them both, and decided to go with the XS. It squeezes you in all the right places, yet it's also super stretchy and comfortable. I wore it for a bachelorette party and definitely tested its limits on the dance floor and some party bus acrobatics lol — 10/10 would recommend if you want to feel hot, confident, and get lots of compliments!"
SHOP NOW: Basic Bae Washed Black Ribbed Bodycon Midi Dress, $55, Lulus
Black Straight-Leg Jeans
In case you didn't know, straight legs have replaced skinny jeans (for the moment). This is a classic pair that come in a dark black wash. We love how it's styled with for a sharp black-and-white finish. Sizes range from 24-32.
How the site describes it: "A pair of straight-leg jeans featuring a five-pocket construction and high rise. 100% cotton. Model is 5'9" and wearing a Size 25."
SHOP NOW: Black Straight-Leg Jeans, ON SALE for $27.99 (originally $34.99), Forever 21
Tee For You Slate Blue Tee
It should be easy but it's actually a challenge to find the perfect relaxed T-shirt. Luckily, here one is, in a drape-y fabric and beautiful color. It also comes in white and the sizes offered are XS-XL.
One reviewer wrote: "I've bought this shirt in every color and this blue is my favorite color yet. These shirts are super soft and sexy! They hold up great in washes if you hang dry. They run a little loose so you can order your usual size or size down."
SHOP NOW: Tee for You Slate Blue Tee, $24, Lulus
Plus Size Midi T-Shirt Dress
We love the color and soft fabric of this sage T-shirt dress. It would pair well with a jean jacket and sneakers — yes, it's the perfect dress for some comfy kicks! The side slits add a little flair to this staple and the hue is unique while still being classic. It also comes in a mauve color and the sizing available is 1X-3X.
How the site describes it: "A knit T-shirt dress featuring a crew neck, short sleeves, high side slits, midi length, and a bodycon silhouette."
SHOP NOW: Plus Size Midi T-Shirt Dress, ON SALE for $10 (originally $22), Forever 21
Basic Organically Grown Cotton Leggings
These organic cotton leggings come in four different colors: dusty blue, navy, taupe, and sage. All equally cute so you might want to buy them all!
How the site describes it: "A pair of basic knit leggings crafted from organically grown cotton that features a high rise and banded waist. 95% cotton, 5% spandex"
One reviewer wrote: "BUY THEM ALLLL
Loveeeee these leggings def my favorite bought all of them in different colors!"
SHOP NOW: Basic Organically Grown Cotton Leggings, $7.99, Forever 21
Ribbed Tank Top
You can never have too many basics and this ribbed style comes in five different neutral colors that will work with any outfit. At this price, you can buy one of each!
One reviewer wrote: "These are perfect tanks — super stylish and classic, in a thicker, better quality cotton. I love that they're eco-friendly too. The quality is as good as higher-priced brands, and at this price point you can stock up in a bunch of different colors, which is what I did! These will look great layered with open cardigans or on their own in the summer. I'm between a size Small and Medium in H&M tops and I went with the Small for a more fitted look, which works nicely with no gaping at the arm holes. Great product!"
SHOP NOW: Ribbed Tank Top, $6.99, H&M
Relaxed But Not Least Sage Green Ribbed Sleeveless Maxi Dress
This ankle-length body-con dress is stretchy and comfortable and can be dressed up with heels or down with sneakers. It would even make a great maternity dress, as evidenced by the customer photos! The sizes run from XS to XL and it comes in three different colors.
One reviewer wrote: "This dress is amazing! I wish I could buy it in 5 more colors. The material is super soft and comfortable and the color is so pretty. The form fitting style makes it sexy, but it is still a casual and comfortable dress. I wore it with white platform sneakers and a denim jacket and got so many compliments! Another plus — the cut is SO flattering for the booty. My boyfriend was a big fan of this dress on me!"
SHOP NOW: Relaxed But Not Least Sage Green Ribbed Sleeveless Maxi Dress, $38, Lulus
Mia Light Wash Distressed Skinny Jeans
It's hard to find jeans that are just the right amount of "distressed" — not too torn and not too clean. This is the goldilocks of distressed denim. Sizes are offered in 0-15.
One reviewer wrote: "These are exactly what I was looking for. Not too baggy but makes your butt look great! Perfect amount of distress without being too worn. I ordered a size 5 to make sure they wouldn't be too tight in my hips since they don't stretch much and they fit great! Super comfortable too."
SHOP NOW: Mia Light Wash Distressed Skinny Jeans, $54, Lulus
Drawstring Waist Joggers
It's fair to say sweatpants are the staple of the decade (thanks, pandemic). These joggers come in 16 different colors! It's going to be hard to choose, but this taupe color is a classic. You can even get away with grocery shopping in them.
How the site describes it: "A pair of knit joggers featuring a drawstring waist and elasticized trim. 52% cotton, 48% polyester."
SHOP NOW: Drawstring Waist Joggers, ON SALE for $15.99 (originally $19.99), Forever 21
Plus Size Boyfriend Sweatshorts
If sweat shorts are more your thing (hey, it is summer!) this pair is perfect for lounging. It comes in six different colors and at this price you're going to be very tempted to buy them all. The pink is probably our favorite. Sizing ranges from 0X-4X.
How the site describes it: "A pair of French terry sweatshorts featuring a boyfriend fit, drawstring waistband, and slant front pockets. 52% cotton, 48% polyester. Model is 5'8" and wearing a Size 1X."
SHOP NOW: Plus Size Boyfriend Sweatshorts, $14.99, Forever 21
Distressed Boyfriend Denim Jacket
Jean jackets are forever a staple. Toss them over a floral dress or rock them with leggings. This "boyfriend" style is oversized, comfortable, and trendy. It also comes in 5 different denim shades.
How the site describes it: "A denim jacket featuring a relaxed boyfriend fit, distressing, button front closures, a basic collar, chest pockets, dropped long sleeves, and slant pockets."
One reviewer wrote: "I love this jacket! I normally wear a size Medium and I got Large because I wanted to be a little lose and big. Perfect! I got the black one where I could use it in any color as well. It’s very stylish jacket that I could wear anywhere! I’m happy."
SHOP NOW: Distressed Boyfriend Denim Jacket, ON SALE for $27.99 (originally $34.99), Forever 21
Chambray Cargo Overall Jumpsuit
How's this for super cute AND super functional? It's stylish while still being ultra comfortable and would make for a smart warm weather staple.
How the site describes it: "A chambray overall jumpsuit featuring a straight neckline and back, shoulder straps, dual buttoned closure, back cutout, princess seams, removable sash belt, side buttoned closures, cargo pockets, back flap pockets, and a straight leg cut." It comes in sizes XS-XL.
SHOP NOW: Chambray Cargo Overall Jumpsuit, ON SALE for $35.99 (originally $44.99), Forever 21
Rib-Knit Pants
Move over leggings, ribbed knit pants are the new comfy legwear. They're elegant enough to wear to work or dinner but comfortable enough for lounging around the house.
One reviewer wrote: "Soft and beautiful pants. Bought the set in all colors and they are all super similar so don’t be like me lol. I’m 5’2” and 124 lbs and the pants are long on me so I fold them at the waist. The top is true to size. I got my regular size small in the top and fits great.. not fitted at all. And the pants I got a XS and they are comfy."
SHOP NOW: Rib-Knit Pants, $29.99, H&M
Plus Size Basic Organically Grown Cotton Bodysuit
Bodysuits are officially a wardrobe staple. They're like camisoles but they stay tucked in and give a sleeker look. Wear them with skirts, jeans, or shorts! This one comes in 7 colors and sizes range from 0X-3X.
How the site describes it: "Crafted from organically grown cotton, this basic knit bodysuit features a full-coverage brief, straight-cut neckline, back, and cami straps. Model is 5'8"" and wearing a Size 1X."
SHOP NOW: Plus Size Basic Organically Grown Cotton Bodysuit, $9.99, Forever 21
High-Rise Paperbag Jeans
Paperbag waists like this one are so popular right now. This pair comes in two colors, chestnut and sage, both easy to match with items you already own. The size range is XS-3X.
How the site describes it: "A pair of jeans featuring a paperbag waistband, belt loops, straight leg, four-pocket construction, and a high rise. 100% cotton. Model is 5'8" and wearing a Small."
SHOP NOW: High-Rise Paperbag Jeans, ON SALE for $27.99 (originally $34.99), Forever 21
Plus Size Denim Bermuda Shorts
Love the versatility of denim shorts but not the super short lengths they always seem to come in? Here's a solution: denim Bermuda shorts! Functional, comfortable, and cute.
How the site describes it: " A pair of denim Bermuda shorts featuring frayed trim, a four-pocket construction, whiskering, and belt loops. 98% cotton, 2% spandex. Model is 5'8" and wearing a Size 1X."
SHOP NOW: Plus Size Denim Bermuda Shorts, $14.70, Forever 21
Butterfly-Sleeved Wrap Dress
Everyone needs a wrap dress! They are so easy to wear and effortlessly elegant. This style comes in four different colors: light sage green, cream, dark blue, and black. Sizes are offered in XS-XXL.
One reviewer wrote: "Love this dress. Very flattering. I'm usually a size 6 and the size small fit great."
SHOP NOW: Butterfly-Sleeved Wrap Dress, $29.99, H&M
