Some “quiet” basics to wear now & later (on sale now)

I’ve been taking a deeper dive into some of the after-Christmas sales. And while there’s a lot of jangly, bright, holiday-themed stuff in the mix, I did find quite a few of those simple and neutral basics that are the backbone of our wardrobe most days.

But quiet basics don’t have to be bland and generic. Shape, structure, texture, and subtle design details all add visual interest that take your basics up a notch.

“Quiet” wardrobe basics on sale

I’ve shown a lot of the items in navy (though most are available in other colors), for a couple of reasons. One, because it’s a neutral that’s relatively easy for most of us to wear. (Each seasonal palette has its own version of navy, but I think navy is usually somewhat forgiving, so can sometimes be “fudged” just a bit.) And navy is an easy neutral to transition into spring, so has staying power.

Jackets

I’m starting off with something a bit spendy (though it’s now 40% off) because it’s just so good! This “shrunken” peacoat is a refined take on the classic. The wool fabric is divine (substantial but soft, not scratchy) and the more fitted silhouette is a nice counterpoint to all of the oversized styles out there now. And it’s great for Petites (though like me, you’ll probably need to have the sleeves shortened). Seems to run true-to-size; the 6 was a perfect fit with enough room for a warm sweater underneath.

Here’s a more budget-friendly option, and a longer style in a color that’s great for you Autumns. (Both are 30% off.)

For something a bit more relaxed, a little navy sherpa jacket. (50% off!) If you live in a warmer climate, this may be as much of a winter jacket as you need. If you’re keeping your outfits simple and neutral, texture like this is a great way to add interest. Other colors available.

This knit cotton “coatigan” is relaxed, but has enough structure and detail to make a simple outfit look finished. In Misses, Petite and Plus sizes, also in beige with ivory tipped detail. Use code JANUARY for 30% off.

Sweaters & tops

I love the striped version of this cotton-merino sweater. The solid henley neckline adds a bit of structure to this relaxed piece.

A popover top can be a good shirting option for those of us with a fuller bust. This one’s washable, and would make a nice addition to a travel wardrobe. (Winters, there’s also a black-with-white-dots option, and the solid Scarab color should work for you as well as some Autumns.)

Once the weather warms up again, a breezy striped shirt like this one is just the thing to throw on over white jeans or linen trousers.

I really like the look of the subtle dots on this alpaca crewneck pullover. (Per product notes, the model sized up for a slouchier fit, I’d suggest sizing down if you prefer a less oversized look.) Spring and Autumns, this creamy light beige color should work for you.

This organic cotton v-neck cardigan comes in 3 colors, but I think you’d get a lot of wear from the navy.

I really like this oversize collar cardigan (seems to be sold out now in most sizes, but keep an eye out for restocks). Here’s a similar style, also on sale.

Pants

The “perfect vintage” wide leg jeans I’m wearing above are also included in the Madewell sale, and still available in some sizes. I’m wearing XS in the cardigan and Petite 28 in the jeans.

Oh, and those (super comfortable!) Vince loafers are also on sale.

These Athleta “Endless” pants get rave reviews. Most of the colors are full price, but this black with a satin stripe (very subtle) is marked down and still available in most regular sizes.

These sleek cargo pants have a relaxed but not rugged look. I’ve found Ruti pants to run true-to-size. Available in US sizes 2-16 (00-6).

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15 Comments

  1. Ooh that peacoat in peacock ? blue would have me tempted if it was winter here and I didn’t own enough coats. Just my type of simple basic Susan.
    At the risk of asking too basic a question, when buying online, what is the difference between peacock and kingfisher?
    Best wishes,
    Julie x

    1. Hi Julie, the peacoat is sort of between Kingfisher and Marine Navy. Peacock is a lighter, brighter teal-ish color.

  2. Susan, may I ask what size you are wearing in the Madewell oversized collar cardigan? I really like that look!
    Thank you for continuing to brighten my morning inbox. I hope 2024 brings you much peace and light.

  3. The basics are what I wear most days so I enjoyed perusing this post. I hopped on the Madewell site and ordered the collared cardigan in charcoal and can’t wait for it to arrive!
    Thanks!

  4. Hey Susan! As usual a great curated group of things on sale! Thank you! I’m trying the Madewell sweater. I like the look of the Vince loafers as well–did you get your usual size? Nordstrom’s website says they run a little large? All my best to you for a joyful 2024.

    1. Hi Sally,

      Thanks! I find most Vince shoes run 1/2 size large. I usually take a 7 in Vince shoes (7.5 in other brands), and the size 7 in these loafers was a perfect fit. Hope this helps.

  5. Reminder to self: sparkle and bling are not my basics. Avoid! Buy only items in my colors that will be loved and worn on repeat throughout the year.

  6. Hello Susan, wishing you all the very best for the new year. I have always appreciated your advice- hope you don’t mind my asking again please.

    I am a burnished winter. I have seen an army green and white stripe Breton top ( Jenni Kayne collaboration with Saint James- I like it a lot but hesitate at the colour. Would you approve of this colour for my skintone?

    Grateful thanks, Helen

    1. Hi Helen, thanks and Happy New Year to you! I’m not seeing that color anywhere on the Jenni Kayne site, but in general I’d generally advise against olive green for anyone within the Winter palette. It’s usually too warm/soft and won’t give you the clarity that your coloring needs.

  7. I love your style, Susan! You are helping me think about how to define that “edge” that elevates and personalizes my look above “quality basics.” I am also a petite, so I really appreciate that you show items in that size range. Happy New Year!

  8. Hi Susan, you recently recommended the J. Crew Emilie patch-pocket sweater lady jacket in stripe. I’d like to get the Red Moroccan Sand color but don’t know what size may fit me the best. I sometimes wear XS in J. Crew sweaters and sometimes S. I believe you and I are the same size so want to know what size you purchased. I am really a Petite size but J. Crew doesn’t always offer Petites in every item. This item doesn’t come in Petite. Thank you.