In the ever-changing world of fashion, it’s easy to get swept away by trends (eh hem, we’re looking at you low rise jeans!) and fast fashion. However, a wardrobe built on a strong foundation of these 10 basics for your fall wardrobe will save you time and money while also ensuring versatility and timelessness.

As a personal stylist who also provides online styling services, we believe that every woman should prioritize investing in essential basics to create a wardrobe that stands the test of time.

Click the above images to shop items.

Why are basics the most important foundation of your wardrobe?

1.     Versatility and Timeless Basics are the backbone of a wardrobe because of their unmatched versatility and timelessness. These classic pieces can easily be mixed and matched with trendier items, allowing you to create countless outfit combinations for any occasion. A well-constructed wardrobe with timeless basics means you won’t have to constantly update your closet with each passing fad, saving both your budget and sanity!

2.     Investment-Worthy Pieces: As a personal stylist, I encourage my clients to invest in high-quality basics. While the initial cost may be higher, these pieces are built to last and withstand frequent wear. When you invest in quality, you invest in longevity, making them a more sustainable choice for your wardrobe and your wallet in the long run. Here’s a video of Blair explaining the price/wear mindset.

3.     Foundation for Personal Style Basics serve as the canvas on which you can express your personal style. Whether your style is chic and minimalistic or bold and eclectic, basics provide the perfect backdrop for you to add your unique flair with accessories and statement pieces. Our online/virtual styling services can help you explore different styles and find basics that align with your fashion preferences, ensuring you feel confident in your eyery day style.

10 Must-Have Fall Essentials for Every Woman:

1.     Crisp White Button-Down Shirt: A timeless classic that can be dressed up or down, perfect for any occasion.

Shop our favorite white button downs here.

2.     Well-Fitted Jeans: The foundation of casual chic, choose a style that flatters your body shape (we’ve put a full guide together here) and choose a jean that complements various outfits. We suggest lighter colors for spring and summer, and a darker wash for fall and winter. And 4 jeans that are worth the investment, here!

Shop Outfit One | Shop Outfit Two | Shop Outfit Three

3.     Black Slip or Sheath Dress: An essential piece for formal events or evenings out, the little black slip dress is a versatile staple that can be styled in numerous ways. Add a cropped sweater or a sweater tucked with a belt to make a skirt/top look.

Shop black basic slip dresses | Shop purple slip dress

4.     Tailored Blazer: Elevate any outfit with a well-tailored blazer (get 10% off using BLAIR10 for all Gibson look clothing items) , adding sophistication and structure to your look. For a more casual look, cuff the sleeves or add a casual graphic tee to dress down the blazer.

Shop Blazer (left) | Shop blazer (more affordable, right)

5.     Classic Trouser Pant: Ideal for transitional weather, trousers are timeliness and flattering on most body shapes. They can be paired with heels or a fashion sneaker when dressing them down. Our favorite trouser for fall 2023 are these at a great price point!

Shop our save vs. splurge trousers for fall 2023

NEED HELP shopping for all your fall basics? GET YOUR FREE STYLE CONSULT HERE

6.     White Sneakers: Comfortable and stylish, white sneakers effortlessly blend with most outfits, offering a touch of casual chic. We’ve compiled a list of all styles of shoes with comfort as top priority here.

Shop White Sneakers

7.     Crew Neck Sweater: A cozy wardrobe staple, crewneck sweaters are perfect for layering or wearing on their own. Depending on your body shape, pay attention to thickness of material – if you have a larger chest, opt for lighter fabrics to not add bulk (like cable knit) to the top of your frame. Our top pick is this $50 cashmere sweater!

8.     Leather and Gold Accessories: Invest in timeless leather items like a belt, handbag, or loafers, adding a touch of luxury to your ensemble and these pieces should last you a lifetime – think about cost per wear when investing in these items. Jewelry instantly elevates your style and our favorite affordable jewelry is from Pavoi on Amazon. Use this link to get an automatic 20% off when you shop.

Images of Pavoi jewelry, affordable and perfect to polish any outfit.

9.     Crisp White T-Shirt: Versatile and effortlessly chic, a simple white tee is a building block for countless outfits. This is our favorite $18 plain white tee of all time. Be sure to keep your whites from washing with colors, this will fade them and make them look dingy. Run a steamer over a white tee to give that “clean girl vibe”.

10. Black Pumps: A classic pair of black pumps is essential for formal events and corporate atmospheres, and they add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.

Shop Black Pumps from J.Crew (left) | Shop Target pumps (right)

Basics are your steadfast companions that never go out of style. As a personal stylist helping thousands of women through our online and in person styling services, I encourage YOU to invest in these foundational pieces, as they form the most crucial building blocks of a timeless wardrobe.