Time for a Staple Refresh—This Season's Best Takes on the Things I'm Always Wearing

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.