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shopping
January 6, 2014

21 Best Basics to Wear in the New Year

By Veronica Misako Gledhill and Kathleen Hou

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As you begin 2014 with a clean slate, try thinking about the essence of things: the fashion, accessories, and beauty items that make life feel extra simple. In looking for the best essentials that eliminate stress, we’ve found beautiful items, starting for as little as $25, to simplify our styling process and add zen to our daily routines. There are the most amazing pencils (really), a plain white button-down, and a new, solid go-to bag to carry into any situation. It’s those things that are tried and true, like the perfect chambray shirt, cashmere sweater, nude nail, or leather tote, that serve as the staples to our wardrobes and lifestyles: Having them makes life just a little easier. Click through our slideshow of the best things, in terms of value, quality, and product design, that will leave you feeling refreshed and simplified in 2014.

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1 / 22 Photos
The Striped Sweater 
The Boxy Coat 
The Silk Blouse 
The Perfect Nude Nail 
The Slip-on Sneaker 
Tiny Hoop Earrings 
The Chambray Shirt 
The Music Bag Tote 
The Wool Scarf 
The All-Purpose Face Oil 
The Date-Night Bag 
Desk Flair 
The Solid Umbrella 
The Riding Boot 
The Leather Legging 
The Compact Brush 
The Perfect Pair of Graphite Shades 
The Sweater Dress 
The Work Bag 
The Boatneck Sweater 
The Exfoliating Cleansing Sponge 
The Shirt Borrowed From the Boys 
1 / 22

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