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]