The term "elevated basic" gets thrown around so much in the Marie Claire office that it can sometimes be hard to understand exactly what it means. I like to think of it this way: if you buy a wardrobe essential—like a white T-shirt, a tank top, or a pair of black trousers—but the design includes a fashion-forward twist—contrasting stitching along the hem or a trendier silhouette, for instance—then that would be an elevated basic. There are no brands that nail the term better than Massimo Dutti and COS.
Unless you've spent time in Europe, you're more likely to be familiar with the latter. COS has garnered a global cult following for its modern takes on minimalist style. Spanish label Massimo Dutti does the same, but with a relaxed, sun-drenched approach. Where COS's selection is all navy, white, and slate gray, Massimo Dutti offers splashes of red and lemon yellow.
