What are you must have basic clothes?

[username4s]

I really need a new wardrobe. I basically have lived in jogging pants since lockdown. I have bought a couple of jeans/tops but one thing I think I am really missing is just basic everyday wear.
I am useless when it comes to buying clothes. I would just love someone to come and tell me. I often see ladies looking really nice in just simple clothes. When I try and replicate I never seem to pull it off. I think the quality of the clothes is often a factor in that though.

Would really appreciate MNs telling me their basic items and possibly where they get them from?

Also is there such things as a white top that isn't see through? I have yet to find one?!

It surely depends on your lifestyle?

What's your work and family set up?

How old are you?

Are you active or sporty?

I think we need to know more about what kind of styles you like and how you need to dress for your day as pp says. Your height and shape would be helpful to know too as different things look good on different people.

re: white t-shirts - you need to wear a bra that's as close to your skin tone as possible if you don't want it to show through (not a white bra!). I have some good white tees from M&S and Rapanui.

Boden scoop neck tee is thicker so not see through.

Basics depend on shape, size, colouring, lifestyle. Tell us more and I’m sure we can help.

plain t-shirts & jeans... lifestyle, you see

A cream sweater.
Black trousers. Slim fitting not flared or god forbid - boot leg!
Jeans - same as above and no rips or unusual finishes.
Long skirt - browns, grey, neutral.
Blazer.
Loafers or brogues.
Fitted t shirts or vests in white and/or black.
Beige tote or handbag.
Ankle boots.
White blouse.
A beige Trench coat or mac.

If you are on a budget go for a colour palette such as browns, beiges, cream and add white and black for contrast.

Spend money on decent underwear and footwear. Avoid sports clothing unless participating in a sport or at the gym.

Leisure wear such as matching velvety tips and bottoms is a sign you’ve given up or belong in a reality TV show.

Have clean, tidy hair and nails, don’t over do it with make up, keep jewellery simple and it’s better to have a few well made pieces than lots of mass produced cheap crap.

I have loads of basically the same thing, Uniqlo leggings trousers (black or denim), a cotton sleeveless t-shirt/vest (I have a ton of different colours) and a loose blouse/tunic for summer or long loose jumper for winter. Blouses are mostly like this or this. Most of my tops are similar in style but I have lots of different colours so it doesn't look as though I never change clothes. I have a couple of summer dresses, but generally only wear them when it's too hot for trousers (about 5 days a year in Ireland). I also have plain cardigans and scarves (some that I have crocheted myself and some silk).

I am very middle-aged and tubby though, it's not really a young look. It is a great thing for getting dressed in the morning though, there's very little thinking involved.

Thank you everyone! Some good ideas already.
In terms of lifestyle/size etc. I'm 33, 5ft 4 and a size 12 so not massively over weight but could do with losing a stone and I'm a pear shape. I have two young DC one has just started school so I will be doing the school run, I often take them to parks/play centres and I work from home.
My style I would love that white trainer, jeans and a loose fitting nice top/blouse look. I seem to get the jeans/trainers right but I think I need to find some more premium tops. I hate it when they cling to your stomach I bought some recently in the next size up and they just look ridiculous/baggy on my arms now.

I would be looking to create a mix match everyday wardrobe.

3 good fitting jeans, 2 straight leg (blue/black) and 1 slim flare (navy).
1 tapered black jersey trouser.
1 midi shirt dress.
1 cardigan.
2 jumpers.
3 tops.
2 white T-shirts.
1 nice sweatshirt.
3 shirts/blouses.

Trainers and ankle boots.

Boden Imogen tops aren’t the cheapest but a good thick material for autumn winter and sit nicely.
Phase exactly got belle top is a nice thick jersey too.
I find new look good for everyday shirts (I tie them up).

You will need a good hooded waterproof jacket in a neutral colour.