When it comes to versatility, start with the wear-with-everything leather jacket. (A high-quality investment item, like the one below from Anine Bing, doesn’t have to break the bank in order to last forever in your wardrobe.) Equally as timeless is a pair of straight- or wide-leg denim, worn elegantly in the day with a menswear-inspired loafer or on evenings out with a minimalist kitten-heeled (two other essentials that belong in your wardrobe).
Two other closet classics are skirts in a variety of lengths—midis and maxis are editor-favorites that bridge polish with ease. A range of must-have shoe shapes are, of course, on our list too, from the likes of Emme Parsons, Aeyde, and Khaite. And because it’s fashion we’re obsessed with, after all, there are also those irresistible trend-forward pieces like a barn jacket or a suede blazer that coexist beautifully alongside a roster of basics. Below, shop 31 fall basics that will quickly become your go-to style staples.
The White T-Shirt
Oh, the versatility of a plain but perfect white T-shirt! When it comes to styling the closet classic, anything goes; but if we had to choose, we love to dress ours up alongside a tailored trouser and minimalist heels.
The Timeless Trench Coat
Nothing is more essential in a fall capsule wardrobe (or any wardrobe for that matter) than a timeless trench coat. Burberry’s slim-fit Chelsea style is a classic you can find in short, medium, and long options—and in three classic shades (warm honey, sharp black, and dark navy). Style it how you like—there are no shortage of ways to make this piece work for you.
The Chic Cardigan
Call it the Miuccia-effect, but cardigans are everywhere (and on everyone) this fall. Sport this poppy red version from La Linge to stay on top of the non-trend trend.
The Classic Jeans
No wardrobe is complete without a pair of classic, well-fitting jeans—even experts agree. With a straight-leg silhouette and medium-dark wash, this pair from Agolde has become a cult-favorite.
The Classic White Sneaker
Every shoe collection needs an all-white trainer—and these from Dries Van Noten are perfectly practical and seriously stylish.
The Button-Up
Similar to a great pair of jeans or a plain white tee, a crisp white button-down is another basic clothing item every closet should have. This plain white poplin version from Alex Mill is a perfect pick.
The Workwear Trouser
For a take on modern workwear, choose a relaxed-fit trouser like this style from The Row. You’ll be wearing these for years to come.
The Loafer
Of all the menswear-inspired closet classics we know and love, few have more appeal than the luxe loafer. Emme Parson’s Danielle loafer has achieved icon status, worn with anything from a jean midiskirt to a crisp dress.
The Daily Statement Earring
In any jewelry collection, a pair of simple statement earrings are a consistent mainstay. We’re loving the new styles from Lié Studio right now.
The Easy Blazer
With a slightly oversized silhouette, The Frankie Shop’s blazer will add just the right amount of laid-back cool to any look. Complete the full suit look and style with a sleek black trouser.
The Sleeveless Turtleneck
When it comes to layering essentials, nothing rivals a slim-fitting, sleeveless turtleneck. Wear yours underneath a roomy sweater, an oversized jacket, a winter coat, and so much more.
The Pencil Skirt
Pencil skirts are having a moment after being seen on the runways, but they’re certainly nothing new in the world of workwear. We love them work with a kitten heel or even a chunky loafer and socks.
The Kitten Heel
Another once-trendy piece that has since become a must-have classic is the kitten heel. We love Toteme’s slightly sculptural version—a standout in our fall/winter 2024 shoe trend report.
The All-in-One Midi
A long-sleeve dress requires minimal effort with maximum reward. This knit option from Joseph is a style staple guaranteed to last forever.
The Suede Blazer
After walking the runways at Miu Miu and Prada, the suede blazer has easily made its way into our office wardrobes. We love that it’s a more textured take on a classic that gets better with age.
The Leather Midi
A sleek leather midiskirt is a trend we’ve seen transcend the runways and make its way to the streets. This trouser-like version from Vince is a brilliant option for day-to-night dressing.
The Ankle Boot
A little black bootie is another year-round wardrobe essential, but is especially fitting for fall. With a perfectly pointed-toe, style this pair from Khaite with a sleek jean and white button-up for a casual, yet cool weekend wardrobe.
The Crewneck
A crewneck sweater is an absolute essential as we head towards winter’s cold. This gray version from Frame will be a go-to for seasons to come.
The Barn Jacket
Even though they’re having a moment right now, barn jackets have always been popular among a certain set of upstate and uptown types. The style adds an element of rugged cool when juxtaposed with more romantic styles—think dresses, ruffled blouses, and white cotton midiskirts.
The Sleek Maxiskirt
A maxiskirt has gone from a trend-forward item to a must-have classic over the past few years. This fluid version from St. Agni will be easy to dress up or down.
The Wear-Everywhere Leather Bomber
When it comes to versatility, a leather jacket will be your best friend. Even better, a high-quality investment item, like the one below from Anine Bing, doesn’t have to break the bank in order to last forever in your wardrobe. Unlike the classic moto jacket, this zip-up style has a cleaner, more classic cut.
The Midiskirt
Midiskirts are super wearable and intuitive to style. We’re loving pleated versions right now, like this gray wool take from Mango.
The Knee-High Boot
Knee-high boots look great in the fall and spring with minis, but they’re especially important when the temps drop. Use them to add longevity to your dresses and skirts, and as another layer of protection against winter’s chill. Just don’t forget your tights!
The Little Black Mini
While the holiday season is approaching quickly, so does the need for a fabulous party-ready minidress. Style this short-sleeve option from Staud with a perfectly polished kitten heel and evening bag.
The Easy-Layering Long Sleeve
Back to those lightweight layering essentials: a long-sleeve T-shirt is a must-have as we enter the colder months. This tee from Another Tomorrow is barely there, in the best way possible.
The Tailored Wool Overcoat
No winter wardrobe is complete without an anything-but-basic black overcoat. This version from Low Classic is especially flattering—and is truly timeless.
The Classic Ballerina
Ballet flats continue to trend, but Mansur Gavriel has been making them since day one. With a subtle round toe and high-cut, this is one sweet style to make your staple.
The Suede Tote
From Khaite to J.Crew, labels are leaning into suede handbags for fall. We love this leather-lined version from Hereu.
The Work Bag
A roomy leather tote, like this one from Savette, is the ideal companion for commutes or a quick weekend getaway.
The Basic Belt
A belt is one of those essential accessories that makes a big impact but often goes unnoticed. Anderson’s makes perfect classics that you will wear for years.
The Everyday Sunglasses
Forget about the latest in eyewear trends and return to the effortlessly cool all-black shade. Khaite and Oliver Peoples’s retro pair flatters any face shape and is the epitome of timeless chic.
