Back to Basics

Since becoming a personal style blogger, I've opened myself up to a wide range of fashion trends. In fact, I've worn a few things that I have previously sworn I would not see myself wearing. But while it is fun to explore with fashion, I also find myself going back to the basics most of the time. A basic crew neck white tee, striped top and jeans - these are wardrobe staples that should not be missing in your closet. Today, I am going back to the basics and showcasing a few basic items that I found online that aren't so basic at all:

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What is your favorite basic item that you always go to?

5 Go-To Fashion Brands

When it comes to shopping, I like a good mix of style and affordability. While I love a good quality brand, I also want something that is easy on the budget. Whenever I buy items from Shopbop, it is always tempting to splurge. But I often go with fashion brands that offer real value for money with reasonably priced items that offer great quality. I'm going to share my favorite fashion brands right now that I go to when shopping. You can easily find items priced less than $100 from their clothing options:

BB Dakota

Shop BB Dakota

I just recently shopped BB Dakota items and I am already a big fan. You can see me style their plaid midi dress (right-most corner) here, which is also one of my go-to dresses right now. The material is light and cool against the skin. Plus, the plaid pattern is undeniably gorgeous. I've listed some of the favorite items from the brand right now, but there are more cute options like them when you browse the brand's items at Shopbop.

WAYF

Shop WAYF

It was last year when I first heard about WAYF from my favorite bloggers. I was intrigued by the brand after seeing bloggers showcase the brand's items. It did not took long to turn me into a fan. Since then, I've purchased quite a few WAYF items and have featured them on my blog here (the second navy dress) and here. Don't forget to browse their items - I guarantee you'll fall in love with the brand too!

Minkpink

Shop MINKPINK

When it comes to pretty but bold prints, nothing beats MINKPINK. Hence, I was easily drawn to the brand when I saw their pieces online. In fact, I caved in and bought my own maxi dress from the line (styled here). 

Three Dots

Shop Three Dots

Simple colors and styles that are anything but basic -- that is what Three Dots is about. I've talked about why I love Three Dots here and how I styled one of their items here. Check out their items to find out what I'm talking about.

Splendid

Shop Splendid

Last but not the least, Splendid is one of my go-to brands because they're all about classic and timeless looks. At the same time, their pieces are suited for the weather where I live, so it provides added incentive to invest in their pieces. You can see me style their pieces here and here. 

Which of these brands do you share my love for, too?

Spring Stripes + Three Dots

Three Dots Striped Top (originally featured here)

Even though I like to glam up my look once in a while with heels and fancy dresses, I still lean to classic patterns like stripes on most days. Stripes is clearly everyone's favorite (I could be wrong!) pattern and the reason is clear as daylight. It is easy to style, versatile and timeless. Stripes never goes out of trend. And the fact that there are several types of striped pattern provides you with endless styling possibilities.

When I got this striped Cabanda top from Three Dots, I was amazed. The fabric is lightweight and cool. It was the perfect top to wear on our hot, humid days in the Philippines. I could go on and on, but you get the idea. You want to wear something light and breezy on hot days but you don't have to compromise style. 

And this is where Three Dots comes in... I got lost on their website, exploring many beautiful items on display. But I am mostly impressed by their striped selection and I am sure you will too. Here are some of my top picks (with links on where you can shop them):

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Are you a fan of stripes too?

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. However, the opinion expressed and items featured are my own picks. Thank you for supporting brands that support this blog!

Fishtail Madness

For my wedding, I wore a fishtail strapless lace gown. My love for the fishtail is attributed to the fact that it helps to accentuate your curves and really define the silhouette. I have long been on the hunt for the perfect fishtail skirt (I always like to find one or two pieces to invest in rather than buying whatever I see) and this burgundy one is well worth the wait.

Top: Three Dots (sold out)
Skirt: Oasap
Shoes: Payless
Bag: AMIClubwear (c/o)
Watch: JORD (c/o)
Earrings: Soufeel (c/o)

In case you are curious, I got this burgundy fishtail skirt from Oasap. At it's price ($15), it is more than just a great deal - it's a steal! The skirt is made from a stretchy knit fabric that is both comfortable and has a forgiving fit. I paired it with the Three Dots cabana stripe top that I've also previously featured here on my nautical wishlist. I got it on major sale too for only $24, which was excellent timing as I had been on the hunt for a new striped top. You can never have too many stripes, right?