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.
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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!
Any suggestions for what to wear under cashmere sweaters, including both v-necks and crew necks, to keep them nice? Thanks!
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?
I usually wear a 4 top, I bought the XS, I wanted my new one a little looser, I bought the small.
Those shoes are way too small for that jeans model. Now that I’ve noticed it, I can’t see anything else.
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.
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?
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.
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.