I Just Realized All My Basics Are From the Same Affordable Retailer
And what I'm obsessing over right now.
I was doing my multiple loads of laundry on Sunday — I don’t know how one woman who works from home creates so much laundry — when I noticed something. I yelled to my friend Sara, who was staying with me from NYC, that most of my everyday clothes are from Uniqlo. She seemed skeptical, and I don’t blame her. My style doesn’t scream minimal or classic in any way. (I’m wearing an olive-print tank with ruffled capris as I write this.) But I showed the receipts, the tags of all the items I wash again and again. I can pull out all the cool items hanging in my closet that I’m excited about, but the truth is in the laundry.
I don’t really believe in capsule wardrobes (it’s just another way to get you to spend money) and I definitely have never gone shopping for “elevated basics.” The idea of spending hundreds on a white cotton tee has always seemed like a waste. But it seems I have developed quite the collection of Uniqlo basics without even trying. And I’ve washed and dried them all SO MANY TIMES, and they’re all still in great shape.
I’ve been given gift cards and clothes from Uniqlo’s PR before, but I’ve also bought a lot of items, ever since college. When I lived in NYC, my favorite winter coat was from there (remember the puffers from the J.W.Anderson collab?), as well as all my HeatTech tops and leggings I wore under clothes to stay warm. It was my go-to for cute essentials I could afford on a junior editor salary.
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Fast forward more than a decade later and it seems I’m still relying on the Japanese retailer. It especially saved me in Paris. In place of too-American sweats, I wore the Washable Ribbed Knit Cardigan over a black tank, and matching black Washable Ribbed Knit Pants. The whole set is under $70 and is comfortable and put together.
This is when I got off a 14-hour flight and didn’t sleep a wink. It could be worse! I wear the cardigan all the time on its own, too.
On another note, my hair looks pretty good thanks to wearing The Sleepy Tie the whole flight. If you’ve ever wondered if it’s worth it, it is — trust me.
During the rest of the trip, I layered sweaters with my favorite white AIRism Cotton T-Shirt peeking out the top. I can’t say enough good things about this $19.90 shirt. The side slits and asymmetric hem makes it lay nicely on my hips without that horrible snug feeling. I think it looks expensive. I also wore a cozy black jacket that’s no longer available. Uniqlo makes the best, travel-friendly outerwear.
My other obsessions are these Cotton Relaxed Ankle Pants in Denim (apparently limited-edition!) and Seersucker Volume Skirt that looks good with everything. And we can’t forget about the nylon Shoulder Bag, which comes in a bunch of fun colors and holds a ton. (I have Natural.)
Now, as much as I love Uniqlo proper, lately I’ve been thinking non-stop about Gu, its younger diffusion line. The Gu x Rokh collection is especially incredible. It’s like they made it for me.
This is the cutest take on the classic rugby sweater. I need it in the brown colorway too.
Are you kidding with this peplum top? The styling options are endless.
If this bolero set (the sleeves are separate!) doesn’t come back in stock soon in an L, I’m going to have a breakdown. If you’re an XS or a S, get it.
If you’ve been wanting the Ganni Short Trench Jacket but can’t justify the $625 price tag (what is happening over there?!), this is also cute for $59.50.
The coolest track pants to wear with ballet flats.
Back to Uniqlo, this blouse is literally $14.90 and gives Dôen vibes. I also love this top for a little bit more money.
Uniqlo knows how to do a cat shirt! I think this is my favorite.
Now, tell me: What other mall brands shouldn’t we sleep on?