Nothing But Basic - Featuring James Perse

What's a great wardrobe without high quality basics? Basically, nothing. The core of your wardrobe should consist of fundamental casual wear and then proceed to more intricate pieces. I can't emphasize enough on how much, in today's world of casual dressing, great fitting basics matter. Dressing well should feel good inside and out. 

Let's just begin with basic T-shirts. If you've never heard of James Perse clothing then you're in for a treat. When it comes to high quality casual clothing, everything from James Perse is gold. James Perse created this brand, based out of Los Angeles, to execute clothing that is "low maintenance high fashion - emphasizing elegance and comfort, pairing sophistication with simplicity". He definitely achieved that and more. I often spot his clothing on actors and other celebrities. I could talk about his entire collection for men and women, including everything from coats to furniture, but I figured to focus on his classic shirts.

For a start, everyone should own a few of their T-shirts (at the minimum) for multiple reasons. The fit of their clothing is impeccable. They are well made in the U.S.A of high quality fabrics. Most of their textiles are plant-based textiles, such as 100% cotton. Most of their items are pre-shrunk. They offer multiple neutral color options for their items. All of these qualities contribute to the fact that my James Perse shirts look exactly the same as the day I bought them many years ago. Although his price point ($50 and way up) may seem higher than other brands, in the long run it's actually cheaper to purchase the James Perse products. Even Gretchen from Gretchen's Closet said her "oldest piece is 10 years old (black cami dress) and it still looks new; no fading at all, no pilling, no holes, no problems AT ALL. " There's value in his clothing considering if you wear his $50 t-shirt 100 times (.50 cents per wear) and it still looks good, versus a $20 t-shirt 5 times ($4 per wear) and it's already worn out. If you can catch James Perse on sale, that's even better. But, if you buy it full price it's still considerable value.

If I haven't already convinced you, the quality from James Perse is kind of incredible. Their shirts are the best basics that will last more than a decade, apparently. Their sizing is unique because it is numbered (0 - XS, 1- S, 2- M, etc.). Although it's hard not to list everything, here are a just a few key pieces (for men and women) that I love from James Perse:

WOMEN'S CLASSIC BASICS:

MEN'S CLASSIC BASICS:

(All of these pieces look great with a cardigan, leather jacket, or knit coat over them for a layered look)​ 

Okay, you could say I'm overly obsessed. But, agh, James Perse' crew neck is just so yum. These are just his basics, please go check out their other AMAZING pieces as well.

Health & Happiness, 

-E.A.