The term "basic" has gotten a bad rap.
Just search its hashtag on any social media platform and you'll be berated with images of Starbucks cups, pumpkin spiced everything and catty references to ex-girlfriends.
The basic bitch has been criticized for her supposedly one-note fashion sense, her inexcusable mainstream style (see: fleece pullover and black leggings).
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Basic doesn't have to equal bland, however. It can represent an elegant simplicity and chic less-is-more mentality. And turns out, that's what is hot in fashion right now. Some would say the basic bitch is back, or that she never left at all.
Joke's on you, haters.
Sorry you look basic • #VanessaHong #TheHautePursuit #NYFW #SorryYouLookBasic #StreetStyle #Now #UP #Cosmopolitan #Magazine #NYFW14 #NYCstreetFile A photo posted by nycstreetfile (@nycstreetfile) on Sep 7, 2014 at 6:10am PDT
The use of Starbucks products in this picture is undeniably ironic
Just look at some of history's best dressed women, who relied on uniforms of simple silhouettes. We wouldn't dare label Jackie Kennedy, Audrey Hepburn or Lauren Hutton with such negative terminology. Yet they didn't exactly reinvent style. They mastered staples.
The basic bitch is fed up and she's not going to take it anymore. The gloves are on and she's fighting to reclaim her rightful place at the top of the fashion food chain.
Below are five reasons why basic dressing should be your new best friend.
1. The crew neck tee
Football players and military personnel originally adopted this style as a sweat-absorbing undergarment. The shirt has since forced its way to the surface, taking the place of everyday baggy scoop necks and deep "V" tees. It's a favorite among stylists and the epitome of "the perfect tee" on editors' must-have lists.
Checking I still exist... Matching nails to phone cases @nailsinc.jp A photo posted by Alexa (@chungalexa) on May 25, 2015 at 12:42am PDT
English model and TV personality, Alexa Chung, just might be this style's biggest fan. Whether she's pairing her crew neck with high-waisted jeans or a mini skirt, the top seems to be her favorite go-to item. It's no wonder she included a few in her line with AG Jeans.
@angelopennetta styled by @sarrjamois A photo posted by Alexa (@chungalexa) on Sep 22, 2015 at 3:33pm PDT
Proper fit is the key to pulling off this style. Be sure the top is cut slim through the torso, the sleeves are capped or close to the arms, and the neckline lies tight against your clavicles. Follow these guidelines and you can even wear this tee under your blazer for boardroom presentations.
Vince, $80; Hanes, $10; American Apparel, $18
2. Slinky slip dress
Once reserved as a dress lining only, the '90s turned the slip dress into a standalone power piece.
Kate Moss was often spotted in the slinky number. In 1996 the late Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy made a statement in an elegant white version by Narcisco Rodriguez at her wedding to America's golden boy, John F. Kennedy, Jr.
#carolynbessettekennedy #carolynbessette #jfkjr #wedding A photo posted by @carolynbessetteforever on Aug 13, 2015 at 7:55am PDT
Perhaps in homage to his famous wedding gown, Rodriguez sent a similar look down his fall 2015 runway, signaling to the world the simple style is back.
Today you can find celebs like Lorde, Lily Aldridge and Gigi Hadid stepping out in this classic design.
Galvan, $1402, Debshops, $21.95, Mason by Michelle Mason, $495
3. White sneakers
A clean pair of white sneakers makes an outfit instantly fresh. No longer reserved for the tennis courts, the old school kicks look great with almost every outfit. Wear them with jeans and a casual sweatshirt or use them as an unexpected twist with a fancier skirt or dress.
On the road again, do you think I packed enough? A photo posted by @karliekloss on Jun 26, 2015 at 4:58am PDT
The more minimal the sneaker, the easier it is to style with every item in your wardrobe. Opt for the original canvas Keds or a more modern and sculptural slip-on.
❤️ A photo posted by Nicole Warne (@garypeppergirl) on May 30, 2015 at 1:49pm PDT
Whatever style you choose, this trend is the perfect excuse to leave your heels at home. Your feet will thank you.
Woman by Common Projects, $405; Top Shop, $35; Maison Margiela, $850
4. Cropped trousers
Style icons like Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly made elegance look easy in their slim cropped pants. Although many fashions fade, this design has managed to stick around through the decades.
Today's fashion mavens pair their trousers with boxy tops and punchy accessories.
Pink and yellow combo @pringlescotland #pringleofscotland A photo posted by Hanneli Mustaparta (@hannelim) on Sep 14, 2014 at 10:21am PDT
Cropped pants are the most flattering when their hemline falls at the leanest part of your lower leg. It's worth spending a few extra bucks on a tailor to ensure the length is just right.
Neutral colors can serve as your everyday work pant, or choose an unexpected shade like a pastel or hunter green, which are equally classy.
Cedric Charlier, $830; & Other Stories, $95; Emilia Wickstead, $797
5. Camel coat
As plain as they are, camel-colored coats never go out of style. Jackie Kennedy wore a double breasted version on a trip to Paris in 1968.
First Lady Michelle Obama was spotted in a camel topper on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 2009.
It-girl and model Bella Hadid proved the color is still relevant today when she walked down Sonia Rykiel’s resort 2016 runway this summer in the timeless design.
@soniarykiel Resort show '16 thank you @kegrand by @bfa_nyc @lozophoto A photo posted by Bella Hadid (@bellahadid) on Jun 9, 2015 at 7:47pm PDT
Since camel coats continue to be an essential in women’s cold weather wardrobe, it's the perfect piece to invest in if you haven’t already.
You shouldn't have a problem finding one that fits your personal taste. The outerwear is offered in a variety of shapes, from traditional menswear styles to roomy hooded duffles.
Club Monaco, $449; COS, $275; Mackage, $690
While all of these items have a simple design, their longevity and ability to transform entire outfits sets them in a category far superior to pumpkin spiced lattes, cookies and Peeps.