Over the past three weeks, I’ve been purging my closet. Pieces that don’t fit, gone. Pieces that I don’t wear anymore, gone. This culling has me thinking about what the essential pieces of my wardrobe are, so I thought I would share the eight pieces that form the core of my fall wardrobe.
A black and white stripe turtleneck. This striped turtleneck ($35) is the only J.Crew piece of clothing in my wardrobe. I love it so much, I bought an extra for this season. The lightweight fabric makes it perfect for layering, and the long cut is flattering. If the turtleneck isn’t a flattering cut for you, check out my favorite striped tee for just $10. Plus-size: Try this Avenue mock-neck.
An elegant leather flat. These M.Gemi Ondata flats ($228) are perfect. The wave style makes an otherwise simple flat, a bit more special. I also love the burgundy color.
A rosy lip color. A new lipstick is a great way to add something new to your look. These Bobbi Brown Crushed Lip Colors ($29) are on every beauty blogger’s wish list. They give a “just kissed” stain, and come in a wide selection of colors.
A structured white blazer. Forget the “no white after Labor Day” rule. I wear my white blazer all year-round. It’s the perfect pairing for all of my monochromatic fall/winter pieces. This Mango Essential Blazer ($99) is one of the best blazers on the market.
For something with a bit more punch, try this military style blazer with gold buttons. This sharply cut Blaque Lapel Blazer is also worth a look. Plus-size? This Tahari ASL blazer is worth a look.
Black distressed jeans. I bought these 7 for all Mankind Blair Ankle Jeans ($59) last fall and wore them also non-stop. They were a chic choice for weekend wear. If you want something less casual, try these slim bootcut Kut from the Kloth jeans, also in petite.
A leopard print scarf. This has been my go-to fall accessory for a few years now. I wear it with collarless blazers, black sweaters, and simple dresses. Animal prints make a bold statement, especially as an accessory. This BP. leopard scarf ($24) is an affordable option. If scarves aren’t your thing, try leopard pumps, a belt, or clutch.
A black slouchy boot. At the end of last winter, I picked up a pair of slouchy boots and kept thinking, “Where have these been all my life?” They were unique, cool, and just a little bit sexy. These Sole Society Belen Boots ($109) are fabulous. These ASOS pointed-toe boots are also worth a look.
A cashmere sweater. The quintessential basic must-have, a cashmere sweater is both aspirational and practical. This oversize Faye sweater ($280) is a cool piece. For something more basic, this Halogen crewneck is a good option, also in v-neck.
For mid-price cashmere, try the AQUA line from Bloomingdale’s. This high-low sweater caught my eye. I also like this drape front cardigan.
[image found here]
9 comments
Erica says:
I’ve been looking for a pair of jeans just like that – have been putting it off because of the price. Those are just the right pair & price point, already ordered. Thanks!
J says:
Any suggestions for what to wear under cashmere sweaters, including both v-necks and crew necks, to keep them nice? Thanks!
MRitz says:
The Jcrew turtleneck is great but has a broad size range. I’m usually a small/medium in tops but I range from an xsmall to a medium in JCrew. Any sizing help?
Belle says:
I usually wear a 4 top, I bought the XS, I wanted my new one a little looser, I bought the small.
Clara says:
Those shoes are way too small for that jeans model. Now that I’ve noticed it, I can’t see anything else.
Carly says:
Would be interested in a post on styling a weight gain – when to finally toss the now skin-tight pencil skirts, etc. and redeveloping a flattering personal style you’re comfortable with – if you’re up for it.
Alison says:
That lip color looks amazing but I can’t tell what shade it is, it does’t seem to match any of the options on the Sephora website. What’s the name of the color?
M says:
Any tips on how to style the Faye sweater for work? I love the look but am unsure how to make sure it doesn’t look too informal for my business casual office.
Belle says:
I would wear a cool pencil skirt in a color, forest green or dark purple. then I would push up the sleeves, and choose a chic ankle bootie to go with it.