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    1. Fashion
    2. Shopping

    Andrea's It List: 6 Elevated Basics You Wont Regret Investing in

    From building blocks to statement pieces, these highly versatile items tread the line between comfort and style

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    By Andrea Thompson
    Published 28 February 2026 In Buying Guides

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

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    The below is from editor-in-chief Andrea Thompson's weekly newsletter, Andrea's It-List. Subscribe here.

    I'm often asked about my favourite pieces from my wardrobe - the items I rely on week in, week out. These range from the key building blocks which form my capsule to the bold statement pieces I wear to make an impact.

    So this week, I’m rounding up my favourite buys from the past 6 months that you can still buy now. In no particular order, here are the pieces I keep coming back to again and again. The best bit is I can personally vouch for the quality, fit and durability of each and every one.

    SHOP MY TOP PICKS

    Gaia Double-Breasted Wool-Blend Coat

    Gaia Double-Breasted Wool-Blend Coat
    £425 AT MYTHERESA

    This Frankie Shop Gaia double breasted coat lifts my mood when I put it on to go out in the cold. It’s well made, warm and I love the oversized fit. Since the weather shows no signs of improving, it will get plenty more wear this season.

    Slouch Waist Gathered Wool-Crepe Maxi Dress

    Slouch Waist Gathered Wool-Crepe Maxi Dress
    £650 AT NET-A-PORTER

    I love a pop of colour, particularly in the winter. This red Toteme dress is one of those pieces that always makes an impact for meetings or events. Beautifully cut and flattering gathered at the waist, I have to confess I also have it in grey.

    Harper Mid-Rise Straight Jeans

    Harper Mid-Rise Straight Jeans
    £275 AT MYTHERESA

    These Harper wide leg jeans are super flattering on the hips and comfortable too. The dark wash makes them a smart alternative to my black trousers for the office with a white T-shirt and blazer. But perfect for weekends too.

    Relaxed Forever Shirt

    Relaxed Forever Shirt
    £165 AT ME+EM

    This is a shirt that means business. Formal yet relaxed, it's the little details that make a difference like the supersoft cotton, great tailoring and double-cuff detail.

    Arizona Leather Ankle Boots

    Arizona Leather Ankle Boots
    £870 AT MYTHERESA

    Investing in forever boots to last? The Arizona ankle boot by Khaite with it's square toe and distinctive heel is a modern classic.

    Black Leather Midi Skirt

    Black Leather Midi Skirt
    £249 AT NOBODY'S CHILD

    I’m so pleased this A-line black leather midi skirt is still in stock, because I couldn't recommend it more. Soft, buttery and beautifully made, this one is a keeper you’ll wear for years to come.

    HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

    Alina Jean In Worn Blue Wash

    Alina Jean In Worn Blue Wash
    £390 AT VICTORIA BECKHAM

    Looking to invest in some new jeans for spring? You’re in luck because our fashion writer Sofia Piza has just put hundreds of pairs to the test and rounded up a comprehensive list of the very best jeans to shop now. 

    From wide leg to straight, high waisted to low slung, she’s got the best of every style including these flattering high waisted beauties from Victoria Beckham.

    A montage of images of Andrea Thompson, Marie Claire's Editor in Chief and the words 'Andrea's It-List' to advertise her new column

    (Image credit: Future)
    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Andrea Thompson
    Andrea Thompson
    Editor in Chief

    Andrea Thompson is Editor in Chief at Marie Claire UK and was named by We are the City as one of the UKs top 50 trailblazers for her work championing gender equality. She sits on the committee of the British Society of Magazine Editors where she acts as Chair.

    Andrea has worked as a senior journalist for a range of publications over her 20 year career including The Sunday Times, The Guardian, The Daily Mail, Channel 4, Glamour and Grazia. At Marie Claire UK, Andrea oversees content, strategy, events and campaigns across fashion, beauty and the brand's purpose pillars. Follow her on instagram at @andreacanwrite

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