Look, we’re not trying to do anything too crazy here. When it comes to shopping for the new year, I’m not looking to reinvent the wheel. Sure, I’ll inevitably scoop up a few fun, unexpected (perhaps elegant?) purchases that keep things interesting—but for the most part, this season’s shopping is about finding of-the-moment updates for the classic staples I tend to wear on repeat.
If you’re anything like me, you tend to anchor your wardrobe in a reliable little capsule of seasonal items. In my world, for fall that means my go-to denim, tailored trousers, cool jackets, a trench coat, chic flats, light knits, and a slew of basic tops that work well to layer. There are constant new drops, but in terms of highly wearable updates for those timeless staples? These 35 fresh items are my picks of the bunch.
Trench Coats
My vintage trench has finally given up the ghost, so I’m looking to replace it with something similar. I’m usually looking in the men’s sections to find the right slouchy fit, but there are a lot of great oversize options to be found amongst the womenswear.
Cos
Layered Double-Breasted Trench Coat
Banana Republic
Classic Cotton Trench Coat
L’Academie
By Marianna Ayisa Trench Coat
Favorite Daughter
The Charles Tie Waist Double Breasted Trench Coat
Denim
I’ve mentioned more than a few times that I think creamy jeans are such a good option for any time of year, despite their reputation as more of a spring/summer staple. I know by now that relaxed denim is permanently my jam, and I’m open to any rise and hem so long as the length works with flats.
Asos Curve
Loose Jean With Deep Turn Up in Neutral
Gap
High Rise Stride Wide-Leg Jeans
Madewell
The Emmett Welt Pocket Wide Leg Jeans
Banana Republic Factory
Ultra High-Rise Straight Jean
Nocturne
Ripped Wide Leg Jeans
Jackets
There is so much good outerwear right now! From wool to vegan leather and suede, I’m finding it very hard to stop myself when it comes to slightly cropped styles. As I attempt to settle on just one great purchase, please enjoy these five truly excellent pieces that honestly all deserve a place in my wardrobe.
Cos
Boxy Double-Faced Wool Jacket
Mango
Faux Leather Jacket With Pockets
Reiss
Nola Textured Wool Jacket
Reformation
Veda Reed Jacket
Basic Tops
I really went to town on long-sleeve ribbed t-shirts last year, and have zero regrets—I love the Chandler and Ross energy of having a white neckline popping out from under a knit sweater. Now I’m short on a couple of more classic tees, and specifically hunting for some varied colors and heavier-weights.
Madewell
Cotton Relaxed Oversized Tee
& Other Stories
Relaxed Crewneck T-Shirt
Mango
Short-Sleeved Cotton T-Shirt
Zara
Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
Flats
I truly thought I was anti-Mary Janes (on myself, love them on other people), until I found a really great slingback version at J. Crew back in the spring. So maybe it’s time for a regular pair? Classic leather in neutral tones, or perhaps a suede-effect style—and in the outside lane, a colorful velvet option that goes with nothing (and therefore everything).
Reformation
Melissa Mary Jane Flat
Madewell
The Elsie Mary Jane Flat
Loeffler Randall
Ginger Grosgrain-Trimmed Velvet Mary Jane Ballet Flats
Cos
Pleated Leather Mary-Jane Ballet Flats
Vibi Venezia
Mary Jane Velvet Ballet Flats
Trousers
I own a load of polished trousers by now—in fact last year I found a pair I loved so much from The Frankie Shop that I bought them in both navy and a deep burgundy. But that doesn’t mean I’m not on the lookout for fresh tailored pairs, from wide-leg to a little straighter, and obviously a good length for wearing with all my favorite flats.
Mango
Pleat Straight Trousers
Reformation
Alex Mid Rise Pant
Cos
Wide-Leg Tailored Twill Pants
Knits
Between my light Nordstrom cashmere and this great heavier Toteme style I found last year, I’m very set with V-neck sweaters for the foreseeable future. In the meantime, I’m looking for elevated cardigans—particularly (but not exclusively) chic crewneck styles.
Zara
100% Plain Cashmere Cardigan
& Other Stories
Knitted Cardigan
Cos
Cropped Wool Cardigan
