When it comes to building a closet that transcends the seasons, it’s all about key pieces that can be mixed and matched. To save yourself the guesswork of which trends to buy into, just take a page from our chic playbook. Below are seven styles that deserve MVP status in your wardrobe.
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The Wool Coat
Consider this your secret weapon for an instantly put-together look. In cool neutrals like camel or bold classics like red, it can be paired with raw-hemmed denim for an eclectic fashion-girl vibe or with a ladylike dress for a polished dinner-date outfit.
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The Everyday Boot
Enter: the ultimate desk-to-dinner essential. A sleek pair of boots is a blank outfit canvas and is as comfortable in the boardroom as it is at the bar. Bonus points if you opt for an easy-to-walk-in block heel.
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The Toasty Sweater
Can you ever have too many? Nope. As temperatures cool down for good, now’s the perfect time to load up your closet with every knitwear variety: chunky cable-knits, fitted cashmere tops, oversized cardigans, and, of course, novelty pullovers. The cozier, the better.
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The Ruffled and Frilled Item
This season brings endless family gatherings, fall weddings, and company work parties. Rely on an ultra-girly dress – frills, ruffles, and lace galore – as your festive uniform. Just swap out your shoes and extras to keep things fresh.
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The True-Blue Jean
Denim will always sit high on our list. But this year, give your black skinnies a break and bust out a true-blue version in any trending silhouette. (We’re especially partial to a cropped, flared pair.)
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The Cozy Accessory
One of the easiest ways to experiment with trends? A simple swap of a scarf. Stay of-the-moment – without breaking the bank – while saving the big bucks for investment pieces (ahem, that wool coat we mentioned).
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The Not-So-Basic Black Handbag
A black bag? Always in style. Update your go-to carryall with studs, embellishment, or velvet. Mixing hardware and texture adds visual interest to every look.
by Paige McKnight, Assistant Fashion Editor