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Fall and its cooler temperatures have officially arrived, which means it’s time to transition your wardrobe into something more appropriate for the start of the new season. While everyday wardrobe staples like timeless trench coats, quality jeans, iconic knitwear, and little black boots are common additions to the fall uniform, our key pieces are set to exceed expectations for the foreseeable future. For fall 2024, we’re launching barn jackets, smooth suede blazers, stylish flats, and simple totes.
That being said, we can never skip those aforementioned wardrobe classics, especially since the start of a new season often means change, whether it’s improving personal habits, setting and clarifying goals, or even changing up your dressing vibe. (Perhaps you’re rethinking how you approach your style, eliminating items from your wardrobe you haven’t worn before, or looking to completely refresh and upgrade your collection of wardrobe essentials.)
Askme’s Ultimate Wardrobe Essentials Editor:
Favorite jeans: Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans, $98
Striped shirt: J.Crew Etienne Oversized Shirt, $98
Elevated Leggings: Totem Zip-Cuff Leggings, $200
Plain White T-Shirt: Hanes Perfect Short Sleeve T-Shirt, $12
Editor Outfit: Rohe Scarf Dress, $1,000
Hot sneakers: Adidas Samba OG shoes, $100
Stylish Flats: Alaia Mesh Mary Jane Flats, $890
Year-round shoes: Khaite Davis shoes, $1,280
Practical Tote: Cuyana Classic Easy Tote, $248
Timeless trench coat: Zara Waterproof Slim-Fit Trench Coat, $139
To help, the AskMe Shopping team has gathered a list of our favorite, most versatile pieces that we consider the foundation of any wardrobe. Simple but never boring, these are the wardrobe staples our editors find themselves turning to season after season, and the pieces we’re loving in 2024. Featuring on-trend pieces like ’90s-inspired flannel shirts, cool-girl-approved corduroys and trendy leather midi skirts (after all, this is fashion we’re crazy about!), we knew they needed to sit alongside a series of staple pieces, because every wardrobe needs a balance of yin and yang. That shiny new piece will shine even more when paired with a pair of chunky pants. Sometimes, the item becomes a wardrobe staple in its own right.
Ahead is a carefully curated editorial on what helps form the foundation of our wardrobes. It’s safe to say we wear at least one (if not more) of these standout pieces every day. We’ve covered classic pieces (white T-shirts, crewneck sweaters, oversized blazers, tailored trousers, dressy sneakers) as well as recently tried-and-tested pieces like kitten heels, utility jackets and more from the Fall/Winter 2024 runways, and editor-approved knit dresses that transition effortlessly from the office to evening wear.
So level up your stylish wardrobe essentials this fall (and beyond) and invest in timeless, long-lasting pieces you’ll love for years to come. Below, you can shop select wardrobe essentials from our friends at Askme.
A preference for denim
No wardrobe is complete without a pair of Levi’s. Whether you’re shopping new or used, a simple blue wash high-waist straight-leg jeans is a versatile pair of jeans that you’ll never get tired of. Agolde’s low-rise puddle jeans are another great statement piece that can be styled with a pair of heels.
A timeless trench coat
As far as outerwear goes, may we present an updated trench coat for your consideration? Khaite’s strong-shouldered trench coat has a slightly loose silhouette that instantly elevates any outfit. Meanwhile, Zara’s cotton version is the easiest way to keep your seasonal wardrobe fresh.
Attractive sneakers
Every shoe collection needs a pair of lifestyle sneakers, and these sleek and classic options tick all the boxes from practicality to comfort and retro aesthetics. Choose Dries Van Noten’s retro sneakers or Adidas’ celebrity-approved styles.
pure white t-shirt
If you’re only going to buy one of the many must-have items in this guide, make it a very plain white t-shirt. No further explanation needed.
Oversized Blazer
Feminine and masculine at the same time, an oversized blazer is the true definition of cool.
trouser type leggings
For the ideal middle ground between activewear and formal workwear, you need a pair of black leggings that aren’t meant for exercise. Stirrup leggings with zippers, slits, flares or embossed details that improve the wearability of stretchy black pants. We think they can even compete with a pair of pants! Make Totem and Alo Yoga synonymous with wardrobe staples, making them the base for your favorite white t-shirts, blazers, trench coats and more.
Edit Costume
As if one-piece dresses weren’t effortless enough, here are two dresses that offer maximum style with minimal effort. We’re happy to report that the midi dress has been certified as a timeless classic and can be seen everywhere around AskMe HQ, pairing it with little heels, jewelry and more.
Universal Belt
Smooth leather and beautiful buckles are a must when choosing a discreet and stylish belt. Whether you wear them over pants and jeans or over a blazer, these belts make it easy to fasten quickly. Any of the options below are timeless choices you’ll return to again and again.
Multipurpose Knitted Fabric
When it comes to knitwear, nothing beats a luxurious cashmere crewneck. Wear it with everything from office jeans to a sequined skirt. These classic sweaters really are worth having all year round.
Minimalist Handbags
This fall, trendy urban girls around the world are ditching the fashionable It bag and opting for low-key luxury and simple styles from brands like The Row and Madewell. As the temperatures start to drop, follow the trends and stick to a solid foundation of wardrobe staples, topped off with a timeless handbag (or two).
Barn Jacket
Last spring, we deemed the barn jacket the official new bomber jacket, seen on nearly everyone from the street style scene to the runways. This fall, the new wardrobe staple is back and better than ever, with sleek, waxy iterations from everyone from Alex Mill to Nili Lotan. No matter which one you choose, rest assured it will transition seamlessly from the country to the city streets.
Practical handbags
Cuyana’s Easy Tote is a classic that Askme editors cherish. This durable tote is one of those pieces that perfectly balances functionality with style. Meanwhile, Esther Acme’s structured leather tote is the ideal companion for work, on the go, or for weekend getaways.
Knee-high boots for year-round use
Before you get into each season’s hottest footwear trends, you first need to make sure you have a pair of versatile shoes that can be worn year-round. A style with an adjustable height heel, black leather construction and a slim mid-calf silhouette is likely to fit right into your wardrobe, no matter what your outfit preferences are.
Suede jacket
Suede is a hit on the fall 2024 runways, and contemporary brands like Staud and Vince are taking notice. Try the sleek new trends below.
Smoking loafers
Even our loafers are going trendy this fall. Choose simple essentials from The Row (Kendall Jenner is known for her restrained style) or penny loafers from Cos. No matter which one you choose, you’ll want to create a fall outfit recipe that’s easy to recreate and polished to perfection.
tailor made pants
A relaxed fit makes almost any outfit look effortless, for a perfectly tailored look, pleated black or khaki will work with absolutely anything.
Collarless Blazer
Collarless blazers are on everyone’s (and we mean everyone’s) wish list this fall. Like the preppy women’s jackets that dominate our spring shopping carts, collarless blazers are a slightly more modern style, with a clean silhouette, a cinched waist, and a crew neck that reveals a hint of collarbone. It’s hard to beat classic black options from Better and Elegance.
Clever Shirt
Our autumn dressing style is restrained, sophisticated and effortlessly elegant. The key to achieving this sophisticated, fitted look is a flowy, draped shirt. Wear your Rohe or Totem with tailoring, an A-line skirt or even long Bermuda shorts. Like any premium essential, the styling opportunities are endless!
ankle boots
No fall capsule wardrobe is complete without classic black ankle boots. Acne Studios’ pointed-toe boots are a favorite of AskMe editors, while Staud’s Chelsea-style boots are certified under $400.
Utility Jacket
When your fall wardrobe needs something other than the evergreen windbreaker, barn jacket, or leather bomber, opt for a utility jacket with big pockets. Victoria Beckham’s khaki style is straight off the Fall/Winter 2024 runway, while Tory Burch’s black zip-up has as much timeless wardrobe appeal as your little black dress. Pair it with distressed blue jeans for a great everyday look.
Flannel Shirt
The 90s are calling! Layered’s heyday may have reminded you of the grunge and club scenes of that iconic era, and now it’s back and better than ever, with products from the likes of Rohe, Totem and Bottega Veneta, featuring more fitted shapes and softer tones. It’s apple picking season, so try flannel shirts from Our Legacy and Buck Mason.
pencil skirt
The clean-lined pencil skirt has officially transcended the confines of the cubicle, thanks to sophisticated designs with street-style appeal from designers like Saint Laurent, Totem and Tory Burch. Whether you pair it with pointed-toe knee-high boots or shiny smocked loafers, this stylish staple is perfect for a full day at work.
ribbed vest
Elevated versions of basic items like tank tops and t-shirts can transform your wardrobe. These ribbed vests will epitomize the minimalist style of the 90s. Wear one under a blazer for an effortless flare.
Fashionable flats
Ballet flats don’t have to be boring. In fact, when it comes to flats, little things go a long way. Embellishments and other fun details (think: mesh or leopard print) can take a pair of classic flats to the next level while still matching well with the rest of your wardrobe.
Suede Handbags
Everything will be in suede for fall, even the bags! Try J.Crew’s roomy tote or Khaite’s casual shoulder bag for a dressy feel. No matter what you choose to pair it with, you can expect gorgeous, sophisticated, and stylish results every time.
striped button top
Fashion’s favorite layering essential? A super cool striped button-down shirt. Wear with distressed jeans for the ultimate wardrobe combo. Then, for added comfort, layer a thin turtleneck sweater underneath.
men’s style loafers
In autumn, men’s style penny loafers are a favorite among fashionable girls. Weejun’s preppy style is particularly attractive, while Gucci’s horsebit style is more in line with the classics.
cool corduroy
Is corduroy suitable for autumn? Groundbreaking. Cool and casual, corduroys from La Ligne and J.Crew pair perfectly with many of this season’s standout footwear styles, from Mary Janes to retro sneakers.
Denim skirt
Denim skirts continue to be one of the most popular pieces among the fashion crowd, with brands like Jacquemus and Lulu Studio keeping them in rotation. Don’t consider yourself a jeans girl? You’ve come to the right place.
The need for layering
A long-sleeved T-shirt or slim-fitting turtleneck is an important piece to consider when creating a fall capsule wardrobe, but it’s often overlooked. Both can easily be paired with chunky knits and oversized jackets, or worn over cozy flannel pants or a leather midi skirt.
Reduced vowels
A pair of all-black sunglasses are both understated and stylish, the epitome of timeless style. Saint Laurent’s vintage black sunglasses will suit any face shape, while Ray-Ban Wayfarers are a tried-and-tested classic seen in the Eskume office.
basic black flats
Sometimes you just can’t go beyond the basics. What could be more basic in your wardrobe than basic black ballet flats? Step into the new season with these easy options from Mansur Gavriel and Everlane.
Clutch of the Day
A chic clutch that can only be worn at night – uh, no thanks. But what about a product that seamlessly transitions into the realm of daytime beauty? Sign up with us as soon as you can. Not to mention that daytime clutches are easily making their mark on the Spring 2024 runways. Pick up from Loewe to Totême below.
Grey Hoodie
It wasn’t until Miu Miu’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection that the simple gray hoodie became a mainstay both on and off the runway. As Miu Miu demonstrates, you can wear it under an oversized maxi coat and other cold-weather outerwear, or simply pair it with black leggings and ballet flats for a casual weekend look.
white jeans
The secret to any stylish capsule wardrobe is jeans – and these days, nothing looks cooler than white jeans. Wardrobe classics in beige, ivory or cream are a favourite among It girls and street style wear.
Motorcycle Boots
Strengthen your fall look with motorcycle-inspired boots. Loewe’s Campo ankle boots are perfect with straight-leg jeans and a simple sweater, while we recommend pairing Frye’s signature buckle-detailed harness boots with slightly more sophisticated pieces. Perhaps a sequined or transparent skirt and a cute Prada and Miu Miu cardigan?
Versatile leather jacket
Considering an investment? A high-quality leather jacket will last for decades and look better with age, making any outfit look effortlessly good. You can always rely on Banana Republic for luxurious yet affordable leather accessories, while Staud’s cropped button-down blazer styles offer a more tailored fit.
riding boots
Ah, another black boot! You can never have too many. This time, all eyes (and shopping carts!) were riveted to the knee-high riding boots. This equestrian-inspired boot made a splash on the Gucci Fall/Winter 2024 runway with its shiny finish and signature horsebit detail, and now it’s part of your fall capsule wardrobe. Otherwise, opt for Madewell’s version, which costs less than $300.
Striped sweater
Nautical-inspired striped sweaters are a favorite among a handful of our editors; perhaps because La Ligne’s striped knitwear was designed by two former Askew editors. Cream and navy versions from Allude and Alex Mill are also cozy options.
denim shirt
This western-inspired fashion piece has recently become a mainstay in our wardrobes for casual cool. A loose or oversized denim shirt is perfect for a transitional wardrobe.
Personalized Pendants
A dainty pendant necklace looks unexpectedly girly and gives a nice feel without adding pressure to your neckline. Choose a necklace with underlying meaning, or just pick any necklace that catches your eye, like these delicate gold nameplate necklaces.
Leather Midi Skirt
Leather midi skirts are a wardrobe mainstay in street style. Shoulder-length styles from Proenza Schouler and Reformation belong on your autumn shopping list.
Watch
While a watch isn’t necessarily a must-have, it’s an investment piece that will remain in your wardrobe through any decade.
kitten heels
Kitten heels are a low-key polished shoe favorite among the fashion crowd. From runways to closets, discover Tory Burch’s perforated slingback pumps or Black Suede Studio’s simple off-white pairs.
Minimal Earrings
The search for the perfect earrings is over. These small pieces of jewelry make a big impact and are discreet enough for everyday wear, but are equally suitable for everything else.
classic crossbody bag
Every woman needs a sophisticated everyday bag that not only fits her essentials but also suits her style. These are some of our editors’ favorites.
knitted polo shirt
Knit polo shirts are a handsome alternative to the classic crewneck sweater. Whether it’s Alex Mill’s slate gray version or Lulu Studio’s brushed alpaca-blend wardrobe staple, lightweight and breathable polo shirts are a chic and understated option.
Modern Going Out Top
Elevate your look with a sexy top for any night. Try one of Rohe’s sophisticated outdoor tops for yourself. Meanwhile, Ulla Johnson’s cropped bustier is pretty enough for any night.
mini style for parties
Every season is party dressing season! Style-wise, keep it stylish and pair these smart, simple pieces from Staud and Khaite with a dinner bag and pumps.
Dinner Package
When it comes to evening wear, a clutch, pouch or mini bag is another evergreen item. Whether it’s a date night, a wedding or a formal occasion, you can’t go wrong with something sparkly.
high heel sandals
Beautiful evening sandals are worth your time. Lace-up styles like those from Madewell and The Row look just as good with a dress as they do with jeans and a t-shirt – who can resist versatility? Plus, it reduces the cost per wear.
Evening jacket
Are you not a man who knows how to dress? Consider a beautiful evening gown from Petar Petrov or Banana Republic. Styling-wise, might we suggest pairing this tailored piece with everything from polished trousers to a simple miniskirt?
black suspender skirt
We dare you to think of an occasion where a slip dress isn’t appropriate — seriously, we’ll wait. Pair this 90s-inspired staple with a plain white t-shirt or cozy sweater, or wear it to one of the many weddings you’ll be attending in the new year.
Charming Cardigan
The sleek cardigan has become a hot item in nearly every fashion season since then, thanks to Miu Miu’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection. Shop the same sophisticated styles below, courtesy of Khaite and La Ligne.
Mature miniskirt
Although above-the-knee styles aren’t for everyone, there are plenty of miniskirts to choose from that look sophisticated—dare we say professional? (Maybe in the fashion office.) No matter what, we can’t miss the miniskirt this fall.
Classic black swimsuit
Bright colors and eye-catching patterns come and go, but a black swimsuit always looks good. It’s versatile, infinitely pleasing, and exudes an unassuming elegance that’s hard to beat. Choose from Ares’s gorgeous black bikini or Anine Bing’s half-cup one-piece bikini.
Versatile silk scarf
Wear it in your hair, around your neck, on a belt, top or as a bag accessory. A scarf like this can serve a variety of purposes in your wardrobe, so that’s another reason to make sure you have it.
Invisible underwear
We have to admit, Skims’ underwear was an instant favorite with our editors. They’re super comfortable, lie completely flat, and come in a variety of sizes and colors. For the price of one or three, Commando’s thong sets are the perfect way to make the most of your wardrobe basics.
Bras That Are Equally Beautiful and Comfortable
Qup’s plunging bra is made from clear power mesh which is similar to a bra, but with more support and comfort so you forget you’re wearing anything. Meanwhile, Araks’ lace Tamara bra top is perfect for those glamorous moments.
ultra luxury socks
It’s important to have a good pair of socks that look great without compromising functionality, and Comme C and The Row do just that. Trust us, you’ll want to show these off with loafers.
