Every time a new season rolls around, we think about hitting the stores to stock up on a few new pieces. But a good wardrobe’s foundation is built on having a set of high quality seasonal staples that you can wear for years to come. While I’m all about fast fashion (R.I.P. to all of the money I’ve spent at Zara and H&M), those pieces of clothing tend to wear out quickly. Below is a lineup of what I consider to be the best fall basics worth investing in. I have one of each, and I’ve been wearing most of them for over four years. They’re the things that just never get old.

CLASSIC LEATHER BOOTS

A low-heeled leather boot is a go-to. I wear them with skirts and dresses that bare too much leg for 50 degree weather and with leggings, jeans and a sweater later in the season. Plus, they’re comfortable to walk in.

BLACK LEGGINGS

You know come mid-fall you’re gonna be wearing those leggings nonstop. Make sure the pair you have is high quality. It’s a layering basic for me several times a week, so I actually like to invest in a couple pairs, each with small details that add a little visual interest (that way I can convince myself I’m not-so-basic-bitch’ing).

UNIVERSAL CARDIGAN

This is the first thing you’re going to reach for when you start to feel a little cold, so it’s going to need to withstand a lot of wear. Choose a cardigan in a color and pattern that’s universal enough to work with everything in your closet.

LONG SLEEVE WRAP DRESS

Thanks DVF, for creating this universally flattering dress. And it looks so good with tights and boots, which I live in during fall. I also like to add a turtleneck underneath for extra warmth.

Related: 3 Ways to Wear Your Summer Dresses in the Fall

STRUCTURED BLAZER

This one goes beyond a fall staple. Everyone needs a good blazer regardless of the season. However, it’ll be a key layering piece as temps drop. It’s an easy way to add polish, but also works in a casual setting with a sweater and sneakers.

NEUTRAL CABLE KNIT SWEATER

This is another piece that I end up going to on chilly days. I love that I can layer it with a longer top and leggings or jeans when it’s slightly chilly and then under a blazer when it gets a little colder. And cable knit is classic, so it will always be in fashion.

Related: My Fool-Proof Layering Formula for Fall

TRENCH COAT

Fall trends come and go, but one thing’s for sure–it’s gonna get cold out and you’re gonna need a jacket. Invest in a trench coat, and you’ll never have to worry about going out of style. For weekends, I love it with a black turtleneck, high waist jeans and a chic sneaker, but this style of coat dresses up and down alike.

 

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