8 luxury basics brands our style editors say are worth the splurge

This is not meant to be a flex, only a statement of fact: my skin is easily irritated by cheap polyester. Luxury basics made with Pima cotton, extrafine merino wool, mulberry silk, and other fine fabrics are what I need to dress simply and comfortably.

Until you feel the difference between natural textiles and synthetic ones, you may not see the point in spending $100 on a plain white tee. Since our style editors have tested a ton of the best women's clothing basics over the years, we can tell you which brands make it worth it — with small batches, hand-finished details, local craftsmanship, and quality materials that age gracefully.

We're not saying you need to spend The Row money. But it's possible to achieve that same chic, minimalist style that transcends fashion trends. Here are seven brands with the best luxury clothing basics for women we've ever tested.

Best overall: Buck Mason

triple side by side of buck mason basics

My skin decided for me that Buck Mason makes the very best luxury basics. The modern American styles include durable 100% cotton denim, lightweight linen dresses, and merino wool loungewear. Basically, this place is the mother of all natural textiles. The easy, West Coast-inspired basics feel gentle on your skin, and they'll look great for years with the proper care.

Not all of its clothing is made in the USA, but Buck Mason's own Pennsylvania knitting mill produces some of the most comfortable cotton T-shirts found on the domestic front. This kind of heritage craftsmanship and investment in local industry makes Buck Mason's luxury basics feel even more special.

And here's a savvy tip: don't just look at the women's section. Buck Mason's men's clothing is what the brand is known for, and you can find tons of oversized T-shirts, sweaters, and other staples made from premium materials. For those who love structured cotton, women's style editor Samantha Crozier swears by the men's Field-Spec Cotton Heavy Tee (also available in a cropped length for women).

Editors' picks:

Best office staples: M.M. LaFleur

Two women wearing luxury workwear basics.

M.M. LaFleur ranks first in our guide to the best luxury women's workwear brands, so it's a natural choice for anyone in need of permanent fixtures for their office uniform.

M.M. LaFleur has functional luxury basics designed to move with your life — whether you're heading to the office, traveling to a conference, or grabbing lunch with a client. The brand's pieces come in polished designs that are both modern and timeless, and it uses premium materials like organic Pima cotton and Italian wool that will elevate your weekday routine.

Even though the silhouettes are basic, the intent is not: you'll find machine-washable, wrinkle-resistant, packable staples like the Paige Tank or our team's beloved Foster Pant, which has adjustable hems that our petite editors loved.

Editors' picks:

Best size-inclusive: Eileen Fisher

Two women wearing luxury basics from Eileen Fisher.

For petite and plus-size luxury basics, Eileen Fisher is your gal. Our own style team, made up of women who are all different shapes and sizes, have struck gold when looking for the perfect pair of simple black pants or a comfortable silk top.

Eileen Fisher is a benchmark for wardrobe basics that feel as good as they look. The brand excels in natural textiles like lightweight wool, organic cotton, and luxe knits — all designed for everyday wear with a refined edge. Eileen Fisher pieces often drape beautifully and feel comfortable all day long. We also love its transparency around its material sourcing and supply chain, which, to us, further justifies spending a premium on these endlessly versatile pieces.

Editors' picks:

Best trendy: Jenni Kayne

Two women wearing Jenni Kayne luxury basics.

Jenni Kayne is a buzzy name in the quiet luxury space. Its influencer network includes the likes of Reese Witherspoon and Sofia Richie Grainge, and the California cool-girl brand is an emblem of understated style with an emphasis on comfort.

I tested its Grade-A cashmere cocoon cardigan, which is cloud soft and drapes perfectly. The V-neckline is the perfect depth to make boxy shape a bit more feminine. It's made with a lofty, chunky knit that doesn't necessarily look unique, but is certainly softer than other luxury cashmere brands I've tried.

Editors' picks:

Best matching sets: Leset

A model wearing Leset basic matching sets.

If you love a matching moment, Leset offers luxury basics that conveniently come in twos. This way, you can pair pieces together and have a subtly stylish outfit ready in no time. The label has become a favorite among style editors who know the value of dressing comfortably — its elevated basics feel refined without trying too hard.

Leset combines minimalist silhouettes with premium fabrics. The brand excels at pieces you can dress up or down — from dainty Pointelle tank tops to wide-leg pants. Beyond the basics, you can also layer with its versatile longline jackets and casual dresses.

Editors' picks:

Best casual: Cuyana

Cuyana embodies a "less is more" ethos, advocating for a closet that's full of fewer, but better pieces. "Better" here means beautiful pieces that are thoughtfully made every step of the way. Other than clothing, we're fond of what we consider their best work bags for women.

While pricier than the other brands on our list of the best women's basics, Cuyana prides itself on the idea that these will really be all you need (remember: fewer, better). Its silk camis and drapey lounge pants are sure to get a ton of wear.

Editors' picks:

Best coastal: Dissh

Two women wearing luxury clothing basics from Dissh.

From what I've learned, the fashion in Australian cities is somewhat similar to what I see in New York, in that the people want to dress cool while being presentable.

Dissh offers relaxed, beach-inspired luxury basics that achieve both. If you want to pack for your vacation efficiently, take along some of its breathable cotton and linen luxury basics, and you'll be fully equipped for a stylish outfit worthy of a grid post. You can find basic ribbed tanks, flowy skirts, and breezy button-downs in neutral colorways that look good on everyone.

Editors' picks:

Best relaxed fits: Donni

Two women wearing relaxed Donni luxury basics.

Donni's clothing is my idea of what an affluent Brooklyn mom puts on to go to pick up the kids from school. For elevated basics with a laid-back, lived-in feel, Donni offers pieces that blend comfort and chic design. Rooted in effortless wearability and high-quality materials, the brand's signature styles are ideal for everyday elegance with an understated cool.

The materials like Pima cotton and Italian wool are sumptuous in texture and endlessly wearable. Donni is especially precise at the relaxed silhouette that doesn't look too frumpy. I suggest you act fast if you find something you like in your size, since the brand is constantly selling out of its most popular pieces.

Editors' picks:

FAQs on luxury basics

Are luxury basics worth the investment?

Think about it in terms of cost-per-wear. The more often you put on a basic tee, the more you are raising its long-term value. So yes, by investing in luxury basics, you are effectively saving yourself the time and money of re-ordering a lesser version.

What are some examples of luxury fabrics?

Pima cotton (or "Supima" cotton) is softer and more substantial than any cotton-poly blend. It's also less prone to discoloration.
Mulberry silk (the highest grade of silk) is prized for its long fibers and durability. High-momme silk feels smoother on your skin.
European linen is made from exceptionally long flax fibers. Tightly-woven crosshatch linen will turn softer with each wash and allows your skin to breathe.
Extra fine merino wool isn't as itchy than traditional wool, thanks to its long fibers. It adds structure and helps regulate your body temperature.
Grade-A cashmere with a high knit gauge feels soft, insulating, and will resist pilling.

Are luxury basics more sustainable?

Often, yes. Investing in pieces that can survive fleeting trends and years of regular wear is a solid way to shop more sustainably. A few brands on this list also prioritize responsible sourcing and recycling programs, such as Eileen Fisher and Cuyana.

Read how the Reviews team tests clothing, shoes, and accessories at Business Insider.

The post 8 luxury basics brands our style editors say are worth the splurge appeared first on Business Insider