Nothing says fall to me more than a closet refresh! When the season shifts, I love to press the reset button, scan my closet to see what is missing, and then stock up on some good basics. These are the items I know will carry me through the weeks ahead, and the ones I will style again and again. Having some good basics in my rotation gives me a great starting place when putting an outfit together. Oftentimes, I can even plan my outfit around key basics like a great pair of pants, a top, or even an accessory.
Scroll down to see and shop for the best fall basics to complete your wardrobe this season!
Xx Melissa
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SHOP TOPS & DRESSES
SHOP BOTTOMS
SHOP OUTERWEAR
SHOP SHOES, BAGS, & BELTS
Trousers
I love a good pair of trousers. I’m opting for high-waisted, drapey ones this fall in either black and/or beige. They go with everything and are truly so classic!
Wearing: Alohas Trousers
Tank Top & T-Shirt
Nothing beats a perfect white tank and t-shirt. When I find a style I like, I usually stock up on a few because good ones can be hard to come by! I get a lot of wear out of my basic white and black t-shirts and tanks by themselves, and layer them as the weather gets cooler.
Wearing: Skims Tank
Faux Leather
Fall is the perfect time to bring some edge to your wardrobe. For me, this means incorporating faux leather. I particularly gravitate toward faux leather basics like pants or jackets (tan, black, and white are my faves). Faux leather can be dressed up or down and carry you through winter. Zara and Mango have a nice selection for stylish and affordable pieces.
Wearing: LBLC Faux Leather Pants (shop similar HERE)
Button-Up Shirt
A button-up shirt really is the MVP of the season and can always be paired with denim, trousers, and/or skirts. Whether fitted or oversized, button-ups are a go-to staple. White or even bright-colored button-up shirts can serve as the best basics for the fall.
Wearing: Zara Top (shop similar HERE)
Denim
There are so many options when it comes to denim and I think it’s best to try on several pairs to see which style and fit suits your shape best. My favorite basic styles include mid to high rise denim, straight leg jeans, and even relaxed fit. These styles always look modern and chic.
Wearing: AGOLDE Jeans
Cashmere
This fall, I am relying on my oversized cashmere sweaters and cardigans for the most luxurious layering. J. Crew always has a large selection of cashmere sweaters that are well-priced options. I also love the cashmere from Jenni Kayne, Minnie Rose, Naadam, and Filoro.
Wearing: LBLC Sweater (shop similar HERE)
Slip Dress
A slip dress is one of the greatest basics to have in your closet because of its versatility. Living in L.A., I wear them year-round. I love to dress them up and down and layer them with a sweater or jacket for added warmth and style. Neu nomads (one of my fave sustainable brands) makes the best basic ones with lots of colors and in linen too.
Wearing: Neu Nomads Dress
Oversized Blazer
Oversized blazers are the perfect chic layer for fall. Whether you go for a bright or neutral color, an oversized blazer works well with denim, trousers, or even over a slip dress. If wearing with pants, I will pair this basic with more of a cropped top and higher-waisted pants for a flawless mix of structure and femininity.
Wearing: Anine Bing (shop similar HERE)
Trench Coat
A good trench coat elevates a fall outfit in such a classic, chic way. Trench coats work perfectly for mild days that still call for an added layer. I love pairing my trench with a t-shirt, jeans, and sneakers for a dressed down look or a slip dress for a night out.
Wearing: Theory Trench Coat
Classic Pump
Classic pumps never go out of style and a must-have in any fashionista’s closet. I get so much mileage from my suede ones from Gianvito Rossi and wear them with everything from jeans, trousers, skirts, and dresses. Cooler temps are the perfect excuse to invest in a good pair and if you are not ready to make the splurge now, I think Schutz makes amazing styles that are comfortable, chic and well-priced.
Wearing: Gianvito Rossi Pumps
Neutral Belts
Neutral belts in black, white and beige are staples in my closet and key accent pieces to have on hand. A belt instantly elevates a look and adds shape to your frame in the most flattering way. My favorite black belt this season is from Celine. Big Yacht also makes perfect all-around classic style belts and I love my caramel alligator one. I also purchased this one from Bottega Veneta and although it’s very simple and pricey, I seem to pull it out all the time!
Wearing: Vintage Gucci Belt (shop similar HERE)
Classic Bag
To round out your fall basics, be sure to incorporate a classic handbag into your OOTDs. I always love a rectangular or squarish shape and this past season splurged on a few new bags--the designer classics from Prada, Hermes, and Chanel are of course my faves! I also love wearing my bags from Strathberry and Cuyana for well-priced styles.
Wearing: Prada Bag
If you enjoyed reading this article, check out “What We are Ditching and Buying this Fall."
