27 Basics From Madewell So Good You'll Want To Buy Backups Of Them Just In Case
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.
1. A pair of ballet flats that have one major difference from all your other pairs: reviewers say that they're actually comfortable , thanks to their 100% genuine leather upper and Madewell's MWL Cloudlift Lite padding insole. If you're tired of ballet flats with soles so thin that you feel like you're walking directly on the pavement, give these versatile beauties a shot.
Madewell
Promising review: " These fabulous flats are for walking, dancing, and any other activity you can think of!Every bit as comfortable as all the rest of my previously acquired Madewell footwear." — Shoe N Boot Fan
Price: $98 (available in sizes 5–12, and four colors)
2. A denim cap-sleeve vest because its cutaway hem and collarless neckline make it an adorable vintage-inspired top on its own... But it would also look fantastic layered over a tee or collared button-up. To truly take the look to the next level, pair with denim pants in the same shade.
Madewell
Promising review: "Bought this vest recently and it is the perfect piece to polish off my dark-washed denim pants.Love it!" — Polished Denim
Price: $69.99 (originally $98; available in sizes 00–14)
3. A midi dress that will be a key piece as soon as warmer weather hits. Its midi length will keep you just warm enough on those sunny, not-quite-hot spring days, while the poplin fabric and airy A-line skirt will keep you cool all summer. Plus, the smocked construction and boatneck are so classic, you'll be able to return to this one year after year.
Madewell
Price: $168 (available in sizes XXS–3X)
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4. A crisply cut short-sleeve cotton tee because we all need one (or a few!). A well-cut tee goes with almost everything you own, from blazers and office slacks to your favorite summer shorts and minis. So why not grab one of these, which one reviewer said: "always keeps their shape"?
Madewell
Promising review: "I love Madewell tees. Soft, comfy, and made to last wash after wash.I've tried many tees, but always come back to these! They are a classic. They always keep their shape.Perfect fit." — Cissy
Price: $39.99+ (originally $48; available in sizes XXS–XXL and eight styles)
5. An oversize striped short-sleeve tee for anyone looking for the perfect cozy top that actually looks great. Toss it on when you want to feel as comfy as if you never got out of your pajamas, but exude a slouchy, cool chicness.
Madewell
Promising review: "Classic casual tee with a relaxed, comfortable feel. Great staple piece for layering or wearing on its own." — Madewellfan
Price: $48+ (available in sizes XXS–XXL and three colors and prints)
6. A 100% leather bucket tote that has room to hold everything you'd normally shove into that worn-out canvas work tote, like your wallet, keys, phone, water bottle, and 15-inch laptop — so now you can cart it all around in style. And it has a magnetic closure, so you don't have to worry about a commuting disaster where everything in your bag scatters on a bus floor during rush hour (aggghhh, I broke out into a cold sweat just typing that).
Madewell
Promising review: "It's a nice-size bag, not too big or too small(I used an older Madewell leather tote for work — runs a bit small), it's not heavy, it fits a lot of items; it's quite a simple, classic bag; the magnetic closures are nice. If you are on the fence, get it! (I also read someone else's review, and it convinced me.) Beautiful bag." — Allie
Price: $119.99+ (available in six colors)
7. A cable-knit drop-shoulder wool-blend sweater to live out all your Gilmore Girls fantasies (well, the fashion-related ones, anyway... You're gonna have to find someone else to help you drink all that coffee). ☕
Madewell
Promising review:"I was thinking about buying this sweater for a while… And I'm glad I did!! This sweater is super cozy, and it goes with almost every outfit!" — Madewell Shopper
Price: $49.99+ (originally $138; available in sizes XXS–XXL and four colors)
8. A boat-neck smocked long-sleeve top that one reviewer called "classic, but also unique," which IMHO is what we're all going for?? The slightly puffed sleeves, ruffled hem, and cinched ruching will help elevate a more casual look, without getting fussy (since fussy is what we're all not going for, also IMHO).
Madewell
Promising review: "I love this cute top. Classic, but also unique.I love the fit. Fits like a crop top, but not too short.I bought two colors. I recommend this top. Perfect for spring." — Karen
Price: $29.99+ (originally $88; available in sizes XXS–XXL and eight colors and prints)
9. A cashmere crewneck sweater , because in this world, when life hands you a 100% cashmere sweater for under $200, you take it! Plus, it's neither cropped nor oversize — it's designed to hit at the natural waist, so no need to tuck it in or worry that it's going to ride up.
Madewell
Promising review: " Seriously sooo soft!The best blue color and the fit is perfect! It isn't cropped and doesn't need to be tucked in — it hits you right at the waist!Dress it up or dress it down! It's worth it." — Charlotte
Price: $129.99+ (originally $188; available in sizes XXS–XXL and seven colors and prints)
10. A crewneck knit midi dress that's striking on its own, but also literally demands to be styled a billion different ways with accessories. The slightly flared skirt and fitted bodice would look amazing set off by a wide belt.
Madewell
Promising review:" Fits like a glove and great weight to drape beautifully.Received many compliments." — Hot to Trot
Price: $59.99+ (originally $168; available in sizes XXS–XXL and two colors)
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11. Madewell's signature Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jean so you can get the jean's beloved high-fitted waist, in an on-trend wide-leg cut. With over 420 5-star reviews... Yeah, they're really living up to that "Perfect" name.
Madewell
Promising review:"I just bought these last week and have gotten so many compliments! They are true to size and a perfect full length. Going to order in other washes!" — Emma
Price: $148 (available in sizes 23–33, including petite and tall sizes, 14W—22W, and four washes)
12. A smocked waist maxi skirt that doesn't scream "warm weather" staple, so much as tastefully whisper it. This 100% cotton piece has a full silhouette that gives it a totally breezy vibe — one that can just as easily complement a casual tee or tank as a button-down or layered cardigan.
Madewell
Promising reviews:"If you want a simple, versatile skirt, this is the skirt for you. It's true to size and a summer staple." — Moor
" Perfect summer skirt. This skirt is already on rotation in my weekly wardrobe. It's comfy, cool, and looks great for many occasions." — MMor
Price: $118 (available in sizes XXS–3X)
13. A pair of barrel-leg chinos that are made of comfy stretch twill, so you can look pulled-together without feeling like you're literally being pulled on. Front pleats and crisp detailing make these a totally timeless classic.
Madewell
Promising review: "This is my first purchase from Madewell, and I love it. 😍 Super soft and comfy, yet they held their shape all day.The length is perfect for loafers or ballet flats. The fit and sizing are spot on." — Maria
Price: $128 (available in sizes 23–33, including short and tall sizes, and three colors)
14. A slightly oversize denim chore jacket with a real suede collar, because it evokes country jaunts, long walks in the woods on a sunny day, and trips to the really good farmers market (the one where they have homemade jams).
Madewell
Promising review:"Love this jacket. So well made and stylish.Buy it — don't hesitate." — Sherrysyle
Price: $169.99 (originally $228; available in sizes XXS–XL)
15. A relaxed-fit V-neck polo shirt that one reviewer called "sporty and chic" — the exact thing to bring some slouchy style to your vintage '90s jeans.
Madewell
Promising reviews:" Sporty and chic.I paired these with wide-leg Adidas pants for a chic athleisure look. They instantly elevated the track pant!" — Ceej
"I received so many compliments on this shirt. It's not only cute, but it's so comfortable.And, I absolutely love the texture." — Chauntele
Price: $68 (available in sizes XXS–XXL and four prints)
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16. A pair of oval sunglasses because the '90s called... And they wanted you to have the era's chicest shades. If you've been so into Love Story 's style that you've been considering buying one of those statement headbands, you'll absolutely want to grab a pair of these to complete the look.
Madewell
Promising review:"These glasses are so chic. The quality is solid.I wore them on a boat last weekend, and they didn't budge. They fit well, but aren't too tight.Absolutely love!" — Madewell Customer
Price: $75 (available in three colors/styles)
17. A slightly cropped linen button-down that will help you look polished and stay cool as the weather warms up. If you think the only way to look profesh involves clothing guaranteed to make you sweat gallons, think again, friend.
Madewell
Promising review: "Very cute top that looks great with high-waisted pants, shorts, and skirts. I love how the cuffs neatly roll up and button." — N2Clothing
Price: $98 (available in sizes XXS—XXL and five colors and prints)
18. A pair of high-rise balloon pants because they're a bit more tailored than your usual wide-leg or curved leg pants, with an ankle that narrows instead of billows. Plus, they're made of corduroy, so they'll give any outfit a bit of cozy academia energy on chilly spring days.
Madewell
Promising review:"Purchased this pant in both colors. Very pleased with the fit and modern balloon cut, which is full but not sloppy. Comfortable, soft corduroyis an autumn favorite. True to size in my usual 8 (29)." — Beth56
Price: $122.99+ (originally $138; available in standard sizes 23–33, including petite and tall sizes, 14W–18W, and two colors)
19. A linen mini-shirtdress that has a vintage-adjacent silhouette that'll pair equally well with dainty sandals or your fave combat boots.
Madewell
Promising review: "I love the shape of this dress! When I saw it in the store, I figured it would look good on, but I was pleasantly surprised when I tried it on!! The weight of the fabric is perfect to give the dress a swingy feel, and the elastic at the back of the waist really gives the dress shape. Lastly, I really appreciate how large the pockets are, while still being essentially invisible in the silhouette.Well done! I'm usually between sizes small and medium, and the small was a perfect fit for me." — Jasmine
Price: $138 (available in sizes XXS—XL and two colors)
20. A pair of wide-leg cropped jeans because they're made of denim with a slight stretch, so they won't rub, squeeze, or otherwise make you wish you'd just worn sweatpants. And while they work for folks of all heights who are in a cropped kinda mood, reviewers who are on the shorter side are especially singing their praises.
Madewell
Promising reviews: "The fit and style are great. Some of my favorite jeans are from Madewell. I recommend these for any shoe style because these jeans really go with everything." — MackyP
"I'm 5'1," and these jeans are perfect! The length is great, the jeans are for everyday and everywhere." — NicG
Price: $148 (available in sizes 23—33, including tall, short, and petite sizes, and three washes)
21. A pair of slim-cut jeans for folks who were happy to kiss the skinny jeans era goodbye, but aren't quite at home in super baggy cuts, either. Your solution? These midrise, straight-leg classics which look timeless rather than trendy.
Madewell
Promising reviews: " These jeans were very comfortable from the first time I put them on. I was looking for slim-fit, full-length jeans, and these fit the bill perfectly. I may get another wash. I usually wear a size 4 and a waist size 26 or 27. I bought these in a size 26." — Comfy Jeans
" I was looking for an alternative to skinny jeans and slouchy, too baggy jeans, and these are it!Plan on getting more for sure. They do have a shorter inseam, so be sure to pay attention to that." — Blake
Price: $148 (available in sizes 23—33, including tall and petite sizes, 14W—24W plus sizes, and four washes)
22. A crewneck A-line mini that has a hint of vintage energy. The ribbed cotton bouclé fabric and contrasting stripe pattern give it a playful edge, but with tights and a cardigan, it could absolutely be office-ready.
Madewell
Promising review: " It's very cute on, wearing with red tennies completes the look.I would say it's a casual dress for work, play, fun gatherings." — Janay
Price: $128 (available in sizes XXS—XXL)
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23. A pair of white low-slung baggy jeans , because the 2000s have returned, and these jeans evoke the era when Britney and Xtina ruled TRL , and are just the way to dip a toe into that trend. Pair these with a plain tank to keep things a little more modern, or with a bright printed mesh top to fully embrace those "Oops...I Did It Again" vibes.
Madewell
Promising review: "I first bought the low-slung baggy and airy blue denim, and they are the most comfortable jeans I have ever owned. Why didn't someone make jeans like this before?!!!… In any case, I came back and bought them in this vintage canvas, and I know I will wear them all through the summer. Even in a tropical climate, you can be comfortable in this fabric…Sizing down is good cause they stretch a little, and it all depends on how low on the hips you wanna wear them. Love love, love them!!!" — RH305
Price: $148 (available in sizes 23—33)
24. A 100% cotton short-sleeve sweater that's the definition of "adorable" (seriously, look it up in the dictionary, I'll wait). Its slightly puffed sleeves and cropped waist give it some subtle retro vibes, but you can still pair it with jeans or a fitted skirt for an absolutely 2026 look.
Madewell
Promising review: "This top is so cute. I went with the cream color because I saw it first, but the yellow is super cute too. Looks great paired with jeans or a skirt for spring/ summer. It is slightly sheer, but super cute." — SammyDD
Price: $78 (available in sizes XXS—3X and three styles)
25. A vintage-inspired embroidered eyelet ruffle-sleeve top , for anyone who wants to feel like the headstrong-yet-tender heroine of a Victorian romance tale (even when you're doing very unromantic things, like going to the grocery store, or checking the pressure on your tires).
Madewell
Promising reviews: "I bought this top a few days ago and wore it to work this week. It fits perfectly, and the material is great quality.I received many compliments!" — RJ14
"This top is coming with me to Paris next month! It's elegant yet fun, and the details are impeccable. Nice sleeve length." — ClassyVibes
Price: $98 (available in sizes XXS—XXL and four colors and prints)
26. A short-sleeve crewneck tee that draws from the '90s as inspiration. The cut echoes that era's ubiquitous "babydoll tee" style, so depending on how you style it, you can evoke CBK or pure grunge.
Madewell
Promising reviews: " My new go-to white tee shirt. It's a fitted look without being snug.I am 5' 9" and 140 pounds and usually a size small, but I sized up to a medium for comfort. It's a thicker material, which makes it feel like it'll hold its shape while remaining soft and casual.Since it's also thicker, the white isn't see-through with a **** bra underneath." – Cait
" Great basic tee.Love this tee. Fabric is the perfect thickness.Cut is fitted, but not too tight. Recommend a size up!" — Samantha
Price: $45 (available in sizes XXS—XXL, 2X—3X, and six styles)
27. A smocked boatneck tank to make a bigger impression than your usual tank. This cotton-blend top has a ruffle hem detail, so it looks great even if you don't tuck it in.
Madewell
Promising review: " This top is so cute and comfy! It's great alone or under a cropped sweater so the frilly bottom hem sticks out.I am ordering another color!" — Krissy
"I've been eyeing this top for a while now, and I finally got it — SO glad I did! In fit, it's nice and basic, so I reach for it often, but it's also unique enough that it makes any outfit feel leveled up.It makes me feel so pretty and feminine! I am petite, and I found XXS to be just a little big at first, but after washing and drying it, it fit perfectly. Can't wait to get another color!" — MissOllieMN
Price: $58 (available in sizes XXS—XXL, 2X—3X, and six colors and prints)
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Plus, dresses , workout sets , inexpensive bathing suits , pieces that are great for breastfeeding or traveling , and finds from Abercrombie , Aerie , Amazon , Anthropologie , Athleta , Banana Republic , Boden , Eloquii , Everlane , Free People , Gap , J.Crew , Lands' End , Lulus , Nordstrom , Nordstrom Rack , Old Navy, Quince , Target , Torrid , and Walmart .
Some reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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Gabrielle Moss is a former editor who has been writing for BuzzFeed Shopping since 2020, where she's focused on everything from home decor to beauty to where to buy the world's most comfortable high heels.
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