I’m Leveling Up My 2025 Wardrobe With 8 Elevated Basics From Madewell and J.Crew

New year, better wardrobe.

Jailynn Taylor

14 January 2025 at 6:00 pm·2-min read

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When you shop and try out as much clothing as I do, it gets to a point where you have all the essential wardrobe building blockss. I have T-shirts that are form fitting and some that are loose. I have blue jeans in boyfriend, skinny, and wide-leg cuts, and I don’t even want to disclose the number of sweaters I have (especially as a former sweater designer). That said, if I do pick up a basic, it has to have something special. Think: embroidery, applique, cool prints, or unique cuts and silhouettes.

I usually gatekeep these kinds of pieces, but since I’m overhauling my wardrobe for the new year, I thought I’d disclose my favorite picks from Madewell, Topshop, J.Crew, Mango, and more that I’m shopping to breathe new life into my closet.

8 Editor-Approved Elevated Fashion Basics:

Jk Sue Jones Fleece-Lined Leggings, $40 (Originally $42); amazon.com
Mango Snakeskin Effect Faux-Leather Pants, $90; nordstrom.com
Topshop Fluffy Stripe Sweater, $58 (Originally $79); nordstrom.com
J.Crew Carolyn Crewneck Sweater, $63 (Originally $90); jcrew.com
Zesica Two-Piece Lounge Set, $50; amazon.com
Marcella Tilly Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress, $154; nordstrom.com
Madewell Tapered Denim Pants, $104 (Originally $148); nordstrom.com
Petal & Pup Wilde Bow-Front Cardigan, $89; nordstrom.com

Petal & Pup Wilde Bow Front Cardigan

I get so many compliments when I wear this bow-front Petal & Pup cardigan, which is why I’ve decided to add a few more to my winter wardrobe. Instead of the usual buttons, it features bows over the snap closures for a whimsical element. It also has an easy fit, a hip length, and a classic crew neckline when buttoned up all the way.

Mango Snakeskin Effect Faux-L

I love blue jeans and black leather pants on a regular day, but sometimes I want a bottom with extra oomph. Mango heard my plea for the perfect elevated pant and dropped this snakeskin effect faux-leather style. They feature a straight-leg fit, come in all-black or a beige mix, and have a high-shine finish that’s sure to turn heads.

Marcella Tilly Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress

Marcella is one of my favorite brands to shop on Nordstrom when it comes to elevated basics. The pieces are always timeless but with unique cuts and elevated silhouettes. This maxi dress is a great example with its fitted shape, shoulder-bearing cut, and elongated sleeves. Plus, it comes in a chic black shade that will merge seamlessly into your wardrobe.

Below, shop more elevated basics I’m buying to level up my wardrobe.