The New Basics: 10 Cool Twists on Wardrobe Staples

The essence of the LBD is to be a go-to sexy frock. We say, turn that concept on its head with this swingy long-sleeved dress. A demure, floaty answer to an endless row of expected body-cons.

$150 at Topshop.

When you think of flats for everyday, you're probably picturing Repetto ballet flats, right? Those would be a great investment, but so would these cool slip-ons. It's clear that metallics are basically always in style, and the cool, deconstructed silhouette brings these shoes a bit of edge.

$188.99 at Modcloth.

When we find a soft, well-fitted striped shirt, we tend to pounce. But we also like the stripe theory on this pretty silk-georgette blouse. The floral element makes it fresh for spring, but this shirt could definitely work year-round.

$285 at Net-a-Porter.

The knee-length skirt is a necessity in every working girl's wardrobe. This voluminous number by Comme des Garçons is sneakily subversive.

$410 at Barneys.

The thick gauge of this multicolored sweater makes it an attention-grabbing piece, but we can totally see it working with both leather pants for errand-running and with a mini for party-going.

$114.34 at ASOS.

Equipment is definitely the ultimate brand in button-downs, and we like this one for its sheer properties—with modesty pockets, of course—and cool polka-dot-inspired gold flower pattern.

$246 at Net-a-Porter.

The cardigan is pretty much a necessity. We like the cool sheer-textural thing going on with this Alexander Wang number. From Opening Ceremony, natch.

$525 at Opening Ceremony.

This bag is unabashedly trendy—hello, pretty color and metal animal hardware—but it's a kind of combo that we can see coming back in a few years, the way fads go. It's also mighty cute and pitch-perfect for spring.

$61.57 at ASOS.

Sensible heels are crucial. We like this super-affordable pair because of the pastel-pretty floral pattern. Semi-quiet statement shoes for the win!

$79 at Nordstrom.

The mixed-media approach to these danglers is super fresh—it's like a remix of nostalgic bracelets and princess baubles—and we sense that they'd look really cool with tons of different outfits. They're just begging to be paired with a gray crewneck sweatshirt.

$28 at Topshop.