I’m the Resident Office Fashion Girl and These Are the 10 Amazon Fashion Staples I Can’t Live Without
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And most are under $50
People / Kevin Liang
I’ve been credited as somewhat of a “fashion girlie” by my friends and colleagues, so people will often ask what I’m wearing or where I bought it from — and they’re always shocked to hear when my answer is often Amazon.
As a shopping writer who loves fashion trends and follows models and influencers, trying to develop my signature style can become a very expensive hobby (and slight shopping problem). An easy way to try out new styles without spending a fortune is by sourcing quality pieces on Amazon that won’t break the bank — but an even better way to invest your money into your style while picking up pieces that will get countless uses is by sticking to the basics.
Some will call this a capsule wardrobe, but I call it my collection of Amazon fashion must-haves (full disclosure: It's a lot of black and white pieces). From button down shirts to flowy satin pants and edgy sneakers, these 10 items are in constant rotation in my closet, and nobody ever guesses that they’re from Amazon.
Big Dart Loose Fit Button-Down
I think most people can agree that a classic, white button-down is a staple in everyone’s wardrobe. It's designed with a loose enough silhouette to shroud your frame and offer that trendy oversized fit. Complete with the standard collar, button-down placket and drop-shoulders, this is a piece that you can work into your everyday wardrobe with ease.
Whether you’re styling it underneath a sweater vest, tucking it into your trousers, or wearing it open with a basic crop top underneath, you have an endless array of options to choose from when it comes to dressing up (or down) this long-sleeve top.
For this top, I went three sizes up from my normal size to get the desired oversized effect for my body. But if the oversized fit isn’t for you, then ordering your standard size is perfectly acceptable for a just-as-wearable look. Better yet, you can order this shirt in as many as 20 different colors, from grayscale hues to springy pastels to change up this staple that will never go out of style.
Sizes: XS-XXL | Material: Cotton, polyester | Colors: 20
People / Alyssa Brascia
Safrisior Oversized Houndstooth Knitted Vest
Though you’ve most likely seen this houndstooth sweater vest all over Pinterest in the past few years, this piece remains a mainstay throughout every closet clean-out of mine. Whether I’m headed out to run errands, go to work, or head to happy hour, this slouchy vest is a staple that elevates any outfit.
This V-neck vest is available in eight other patterns and shades (mostly houndstooth, though you have one argyle option in there), but I love to style the beige, ivory and black combo for my day-to-day looks. Whether I’m layering a white button-down underneath for a business casual look or wearing it alone with casual loose pants for a daytime ‘fit, there are endless ways to dress this vest and occasions for which to wear it. Better yet, it’s under $30 — a total steal for this trendy style.
Sizes: S-L | Material: Viscose, nylon | Colors: 4
People / Alyssa Brascia
Grace Karin Pleated Midi A-line Skirt
While there are no set rules deciding what you can and can’t wear when going to work, we all know that you usually need an appropriate hemline in professional situations. That’s the beauty of this Grace Karin midi skirt — it passes all the tests of professionalism yet elevates a look in ways that trousers can’t always achieve. This A-line number features a finely pleated skirt, a non-digging elastic waistband, and a hemline that drops to about mid-calf (if you’re 5’3” like me).
You can grab this skirt in whichever color fits your fancy (there are 33 options to choose from), but the black shade felt the most essential to me. But don’t be afraid to go for a lighter color — each shade is double-lined, so you won’t have to worry about sheerness while you’re wearing it.
Since black goes with everything, I can pair this skirt with just about any sort of top from my closet. Whether I’m tucking in a graphic tee and pairing it with sneakers or adding a good bodysuit and knee-high boots underneath, there are a myriad of ways to style this skirt for the office or everyday life (and ways to make it “not your mother’s” A-line skirt).
Sizes: S-XXL | Material: 98% polyester, 2% viscose | Colors: 33
Related: The 10 Best Black Tights of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
People / Alyssa Brascia
The Drop Britt Tiered Maxi Tent Dress
Maxi dresses have re-entered the scene in a big way (but really, did they ever leave?), and I’ve incorporated this style into my wardrobe with the Britt Tiered Maxi Tent Dress from Amazon’s influencer-designed collection The Drop. This dress has everything — a flattering silhouette, quality fabric, convertible straps (you can fasten them in a halter or square style), and best of all, a fabulous price point.
It’s beyond easy to dress up this breezy tent dress with a nice pair of heels or by sliding on a pair of mules for the office. But that’s not to say it’s just suitable for work — this maxi screams vacation with the addition of a pair of platform sandals and a straw bag. And when the weather starts to cool, it’s a matter of layering a thin turtleneck underneath or adding a pair of comfy sneakers and a sleek motorcycle jacket.
Sizes: XXS-5X | Material: Tencel lyocell | Colors: 18
People / Alyssa Brascia
Nufiwi Crochet Hollow Out Long Sleeve
If you’re looking for a departure from the regular crochet sweater, then you’ll want to check out this cutout cropped style. This TikTok-loved sweater features elongated bell sleeves, chunky knit crochet, and large, circular holes trailing diagonally across the bodice for a daring look. I prefer to layer up this sweater with a bralette or tank underneath to contrast the see-through fabric or provide more modesty, depending on the setting I’m wearing it in.
This Y2K top is perfect when paired with low-rise jeans or cargo pants and serves as a great transition piece from late summer to early fall. You could even wear the top as a bathing suit cover-up, making this a multifunctional staple in most seasons and climates.
Sizes: S-XL | Material: Polyester | Colors: 22
People / Alyssa Brascia
Uaneo Super Cropped Sweater
After seeing stars like Bella Hadid and Katie Holmes sporting this micro-sweater style, I knew I had to add a more affordable version of this bolero trend to my wardrobe. The Uaneo Super Cropped Sweater is a turtleneck bolero with slight bishop sleeves that has a major cutout in the bodice — as in, there’s no bodice at all. You simply slip the collar over your head, slide your arms in, and let the rest of your outfit shine.
Because of its thick knit material, this micro sweater is warm enough to act as a layering piece during the transitional times of year, like spring and fall. You can even get some use out of your favorite summer tanks (take the Miessial Satin Camisole, for example) by throwing this bolero on top to adjust to the temperature. It also makes any outfit with a tank top or strap-y dresses work-appropriate thanks to the simple addition of sleeves (total game-changer). Watch your wardrobe expand with this micro addition.
Sizes: S-L | Material: Polyester | Colors: 2
People / Alyssa Brascia
Natural Feelings Yoga Tank Top
Staple tanks are a non-negotiable in my wardrobe, which makes the Natural Feelings Yoga Tank Top a worthwhile piece that I find myself grabbing for multiple times a week. Whether you’re wearing it to work up a sweat at the gym, layering it under open button-downs or styling it with jeans, you’ll always find a use for this basic must-have in your closet.
If you’re like me and tend to reach for your favorite bralette in lieu of an underwire bra, then you’ll appreciate the built-in bra with removable padding inside this double-layered tank. You can avoid the discomfort and appearance of bra straps and achieve a look that’s not only seamless but versatile enough to be dressed up or down for sessions in the yoga studio or trips to the office (add a blazer and trousers and you’re good to go).
Sizes: S-XXL | Material: Nylon, spandex | Colors: 24
Miessial Satin Camisole
Just because a piece is called a “basic” doesn’t mean it’s boring, and the Miessial Satin Camisole is anything but. This satin cowl-neck cami is the perfect staple piece for anyone who needs a transitional wardrobe — meaning you can style it under a trench coat or blazer with pleated trousers for a day in the office or tuck it into a pair of leather pants for a sophisticated happy hour look.
The top’s cowl neck creates a sweetheart-like neckline and the satin fabric adds a luxurious element to an otherwise average-looking top. This hint of texture and drapery elevates what can simply be a layering piece in your work attire or serve as a stand-alone piece when paired with high-waisted jeans or tucked into a skirt. One of my favorite ways to style it is with the Uaneo Super Cropped bolero to take this sleeveless summertime number into the cooler months of the year with no problem.
Sizes: 4-14 | Material: Satin | Colors: 15
People / Alyssa Brascia
Wantschun Wide-Leg Satin Pajama Pants
We’ve seen stars like Gwenyth Paltrow donning the pajama set trend for some time now, and a super easy way to incorporate this style into your wardrobe (without looking like you just rolled out of bed) is by dressing up a classic, black pair of satin pajama pants. The Wantschun Wide Leg Satin Pajama Pants are an easy and affordable way to channel your inner sleeping beauty while out on the town without paying a hefty price tag (ahem, Gwenyth’s set).
You can easily pair these pants with the Miessial Satin Camisole to get the matching set look, or you can throw on your favorite button-down and chic sneakers for an office-ready outfit. Or you can lean into your sporty side with a staple tank and layer up with the Crochet Hollow Out sweater for a Pinterest-worthy ‘fit that will be as comfortable as it is cute. With a piece as versatile as satin pants, there’s endless opportunities to inject pajama-level comfort into your everyday look.
Sizes: S-3XL | Material: Polyester | Colors: 21
People / Alyssa Brascia
Macoking Elastic Studded Belt
Sometimes all you need to take a basic outfit to the next level is a statement belt, and the one that I find myself grabbing for the most is the Macoking Elastic Studded Belt. This punky belt features an asymmetrical design, clasping at the waist with a circle hook and exposing the studded leather-like material below. It also includes an elastic waistband in the back, which gives you room to breathe, slouch, eat, or do whatever your body needs to in a day without feeling uncomfortable or constricted.
I like to style this belt over an oversized top, like a white button-down or a loose-fitting blazer to create an exaggerated silhouette. You can even use it to accentuate your waist while wearing a dress or break up a monochromatic outfit. So long as it’s not being used as a conventional belt (I promise these straps will not fit through your belt loops), this statement piece is a must-have for edgy dressers or anyone looking to spice up their capsule wardrobe.
Sizes: 27-42-inch waist | Material: PU leather, spandex, metal alloy | Colors: 5
Steve Madden Women's Possession Sneaker
Easily the shoe that stops people in their tracks to ask where I bought them is the Steve Madden Possession Sneaker, a neutral, multi-toned shoe with snakes of white and tan fabric and exposed black netting decorating the outsole. The design features a futuristic, chunky design with a swirled platform and tread-gripping details emerging from the sole. With its basic color palette and intricate design, these shoes are beyond easy to pair with everything from casual outfits to workwear.
I find myself reaching for these the most when I’m dressing down a work outfit, such as a matching blazer and trouser set, or when I want to elevate a casual daytime outfit — like the pajama pants and crochet sweater combo. You can even find a happy medium by pairing these shoes with the satin pants, button-down, and sweater vest for a look that’s perfectly professional and incredibly comfy. However, be sure to know the level of comfort you need in a sneaker before grabbing these, because for as stylish as they are, they do lack a bit of arch support.
Sizes: 5-13 | Material: Synthetic rubber, synthetic textile lining | Colors: 38
How to Pick Fashion Basics on Amazon
Functionality
Building your wardrobe typically starts with the basics (or at least it should, anyways). When shopping for basics from Amazon, you’ll want to make sure you’re keeping in mind the types of activities and events you’re shopping for, as well as your day-to-day life. Workwear pieces such as the Safrisior Oversized Houndstooth Knitted Vest and the Big Dart Loose Fit Button Down are pieces that you know you’ll get use out of both in the office and on the weekends, making multi-functional clothing good pieces to invest in.
Tip: If you can come up with at least three outfits that you could wear this piece with in just a few minutes, that usually means it’s a worthwhile buy. If not, move along.
Style
Your personal style will have the most gravity in your decision-making when it comes to Amazon fashion basics, meaning your list might look different than mine. However, everyone’s personal style consists of a few basics — whether that be denim jeans, flowy skirts, turtlenecks — you name it, all of which you can find on Amazon.
Shopping Tip
Look at some of your favorite content creators’ Amazon fashion finds or the official Amazon Fashion Storefront for your next hit of inspiration.
Quality
It’s important to do your research on the quality of your items before you purchase them online, and this is no different for Amazon. It can be hard to know how fabric feels and stitching looks before touching it in person, which makes the reviews and ratings sections your best friends. Be sure to check out what shoppers are saying about the piece you’re looking to buy before adding to your cart — your closet will thank you later.
Price
The last, yet most important aspect to consider when adding Amazon fashion pieces into your wardrobe is price. Luckily Amazon is known for its (usual) affordability, which makes their fashion basics so alluring, but it’s something to keep in mind on both sides of the scale.
Sometimes a super low price means subpar quality — so if a price point is looking a little too good to be true, it probably is (but double-check with customer reviews, just in case). On the other hand, not everything that has a high price tag means that it’s of high quality, and there are plenty of amazing pieces on Amazon that you can find for reasonable prices (ahem, every product on this list).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you shop Amazon fashion in person?
In some cities, yes. Amazon’s first physical fashion storefront Amazon Style can be found in Glendale, California, and Columbus, Ohio, for shoppers to stop inside and try on clothes from Amazon-carried fashion brands such as Steve Madden, Champion, Dolce Vita, Levi’s, and so much more. But if you don’t live close to either of these cities, it’s online shopping for now.
What is Prime Try Before You Buy?
Try Before You Buy is an Amazon Prime service that allows you to select up to six clothing items to try out for a seven-day period before deciding whether or not you want to keep them. Whatever you keep after seven days will be charged to your card, and whatever you send back before then will never even see your account.
You can choose items from premium brands such as Ugg, New Balance, Adidas and more, or test out Amazon Essentials pieces with this mix-and-match option. The only caveat is that you need to be an Amazon Prime member to access this feature (but why aren’t you, already?!).
Does Amazon have its own fashion brands?
Amazon does in fact have its own fashion brands — some with recognizable names like Amazon Essentials, featuring everything from affordable kids’ clothing to adult winter gear, and others like Amazon Aware, which only produces carbon-neutral clothing, as well as influencer-designed collections like The Drop, which are curated batches of designs in collaboration with content creators that are only available for a limited amount of time. While Amazon does carry several large brands and countless smaller ones, this giant retailer does have a few brands of their own.
Take Our Word For It
Alyssa Brascia is a commerce staff writer for PEOPLE and has also written for publications such as InStyle, Shape, and Real Simple. When rounding up the best Amazon fashion basics, she pulled together her tried-and-true fashion pieces that she’s had in her closet for months, vetted as a shopping writer and customer, as well as someone with a degree in apparel merchandising and design from Iowa State University. She also took a close look at the functionality, style, quality, and price of each piece while compiling this list to ensure that all angles were considered for the shopper who is looking for new (and affordable) Amazon fashion pieces to add to their capsule wardrobe.
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