You’ve heard the saying: sometimes less is more! When it comes to elegant basics, quality, minimal designs are definitely on trend right now. Here are some of the elevated basics we’re seeing right now, and how to craft them yourself with Zelouf Fabrics. 

What are elevated basics? 

"Elevated basics" is a term used in the fashion industry to describe a collection of clothing items that are essential, versatile, and timeless, yet designed with high-quality materials, superior craftsmanship, and subtle design details that set them apart from standard or basic clothing items. Elevated basics are intended to be the foundation of a person's wardrobe, offering a sense of sophistication and luxury while remaining comfortable and easy to mix and match with other pieces.

Key characteristics of elevated basics in fashion include:

• High-Quality Materials: Elevated basics are often made from premium materials like high-grade cotton, silk, cashmere, or wool. These materials are chosen for their softness, durability, and comfort.
  
  
• Superior Craftsmanship: The construction and finishing of elevated basics are of a higher standard. They may feature intricate stitching, reinforced seams, and attention to detail that ensures longevity.
  
  
• Minimalist Design: These items typically have clean and timeless designs. They avoid excessive embellishments, logos, or trendy elements, which can make them suitable for various occasions and easy to pair with other clothing.
  
  
• Perfect Fit: The fit of elevated basics is carefully considered to ensure they drape well on the body and provide a flattering silhouette.
  
  
• Versatility: Elevated basics are designed to be versatile, easily transitioning from casual to formal occasions. They can be dressed up or down as needed.
  
  
• Timelessness: These pieces are intended to remain stylish and relevant for several seasons or even years, avoiding the fast-fashion cycle.
  
  
• Subtle Detailing: While they appear simple at first glance, elevated basics may feature subtle design elements, such as well-placed seams, unique cuts, or high-quality buttons, that set them apart.

Examples of elevated basics may include a well-tailored white button-up shirt, a classic cashmere sweater, a perfectly fitting pair of black trousers, a simple leather belt, or a high-quality pair of white sneakers. These items are often considered investment pieces because they tend to be more expensive than standard basics but are expected to last longer and maintain their appeal.

Elevated basics can form the foundation of a wardrobe, and they are often complemented with statement pieces and accessories to create a well-rounded and stylish personal style​.

Zelouf Charmeuse Satin in Hot Vanilla

What are considered basics in clothing? 

"Basics" in clothing refer to essential, fundamental garments that form the foundation of a person's wardrobe. These are versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched with various outfits to create a wide range of looks. Basics are typically simple in design and neutral in color, making them easy to pair with more eye-catching or trendy pieces. Here are some common clothing items that are considered basics:

• T-Shirts: Basic crewneck or V-neck t-shirts in neutral colors like white, black, gray, and navy are wardrobe staples.
  
  
• Jeans: Classic, well-fitting jeans in a simple cut and wash, like straight-leg or skinny jeans, are a basic item in many closets.
  
  
• Button-Up Shirts: Crisp white and light blue button-up shirts are versatile and can be dressed up or down.
  
  
• Tank Tops: These are great for layering and can be worn on their own during warm weather.
  
  
• Blouses: A basic blouse, often in a solid color or simple pattern, is a versatile piece for both casual and dressy occasions.
  
  
• Sweaters: Basic sweaters in neutral colors are ideal for layering and staying warm in cooler weather.
  
  
• Cardigans: Cardigans, especially in versatile colors like black or gray, can be worn as an extra layer over various outfits.
  
  
• Pants: Simple, well-fitting trousers or chinos are basic options for both casual and business attire.
  
  
• Skirts: A basic skirt in a neutral color, such as black or navy, is a wardrobe staple for many.
  
  
• Dresses: Basic dresses, like a little black dress (LBD), can be dressed up or down for a variety of occasions.
  
  
• Outerwear: Basic outerwear includes items like a trench coat, a classic denim jacket, or a simple black blazer.
  
  
• Footwear: Basic footwear items often include white sneakers, black or brown loafers, and simple sandals.
  
  
• Accessories: Items like a plain leather belt, a versatile scarf, and neutral handbags or backpacks are considered basics.

The idea behind basics is that they form the core of your wardrobe and provide a solid foundation upon which you can build various outfits. They are usually timeless, classic pieces that don't go out of style and can be combined with more trendy or statement pieces to create different looks for different occasions.

What are some affordable fabrics that can elevate your clothing? 

If you want to make your clothing look more elevated without breaking the bank, there are several affordable fabrics and materials you can consider. The key is to focus on quality and choose fabrics that mimic the appearance and feel of more expensive options. Here are some affordable fabric options:

• Cotton: High-quality cotton fabrics can provide a polished and comfortable look. Look for finely woven cotton materials like poplin, sateen, or twill for a more upscale appearance. Cotton can be used for shirts, blouses, dresses, and trousers.
  
  
• Polyester Blends: Polyester blends can offer durability and a smooth, polished finish. Polyester blends with other natural fibers, like cotton or rayon, can give a luxurious appearance and are often more affordable than pure silk or wool.
  
  
• Rayon: Rayon is known for its silk-like appearance and draping qualities. It's often a more budget-friendly alternative to silk and can be used for dresses, blouses, and skirts.
  
  
• Knit Fabrics: High-quality knits like jersey or ponte can be used to create elevated casualwear. They provide comfort and a sleek appearance, often used in t-shirts, dresses, and casual tops.
  
  
• Linen Blends: While pure linen can be costly, linen blends can be more affordable and still offer the breathability and texture of linen. Linen blends can be used for summer dresses, tops, and trousers.
  
  
• Faux Leather and Suede: These synthetic materials can mimic the look of genuine leather and suede at a fraction of the cost. They can be used for jackets, skirts, and accessories.
  
  
  Zelouf Jasmine Faux Leather in Light Brown
  
  
• Satin: Satin blends can provide a similar glossy finish and are often used in more budget-friendly eveningwear and occasion dresses.
  
  
• Chiffon: While pure silk chiffon is luxurious, polyester chiffon offers a similar look at a lower price point, making it accessible for a wide range of clothing items.
  
  
• Jersey Knit: Jersey knit is commonly used for t-shirts and casual dresses. It's comfortable, affordable, and can be chosen in high-quality variations.

Remember that the quality of the fabric and how well it's sewn into the garment are essential factors in achieving an elevated look. Even affordable fabrics can look more high-end when they are well-tailored and cared for properly. Additionally, consider the cut, fit, and design of the clothing, as these factors can significantly influence the overall appearance of your outfit.