I'm a 55-Year-Old Former Nordstrom Buyer—These 8 Fall Basics Work for Everyone

When we're looking for classic yet forward style inspiration, we consistently turn to Susie Wright. You might already be familiar with her, but she's a 55-year-old stylist, influencer, and former Nordstrom buyer. Essentially, she just gets it thanks to her fashion résumé and sleek personal style. And no, age has nothing to do with what you should or shouldn't wear, but her sartorial point of view over 50 is also intriguing since she's been able to spend years fine-tuning her style. On that note, we thought we'd tap her expertise in building a perfect fall wardrobe. And given that basics act as the foundational pieces in any flawless closet, we wanted her thoughts on the simple fall items she swears by.
There are actually eight fall basics Wright relies on and wears often because she thinks they really could work for everyone given their versatile nature. To highlight further, Wright shared a bit of outfit inspo below showcasing the basics in action. If you're shopping at the moment, there are inspired recommendations as well.
1. Oversize Blazer
"An oversize blazer works easily over any T-shirt you own. And when the weather cools down, switch to a cashmere tee for a bit more polish and warmth."
2. Shirt-Jacket/Utility Jacket
"A shirt-jacket is an easy piece to add for a seamless transition into fall. I love it with denim or even over a dress, belted. Casual but super stylish."
3. Faux-Leather Separates
"Wear faux-leather anything—shirt-jacket, jumpsuit, or blazer—and it instantly adds a cool vibe to any fall outfit."
4. Faded and Light-Wash Jeans
"Faded denim has been a favorite wash all year. As we head into fall, I’ll be wearing all my faded denim with blazers, printed tops, and cozy sweaters!"
5. White Shirt
"A white shirt is a staple no matter the season. Heading into fall, combine with a cardi and your favorite denim for an instant, classic look."
6. Bootcut Jeans
"I love bootcut jeans because they are super flattering. Who doesn’t want a leg-lengthening style that looks great with most any top?"
7. Printed Dress
"A chic dress and white booties are a favorite fall combo. Sophisticated and easy and perfect for most occasions."
8. Black Denim
"Black denim is foundational for any fall wardrobe. I can't imagine getting dressed without a good pair. They're the starting piece of any outfit!"
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated. Next, check out more items Wright swears by to look chic.

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
I'm a Professional Shopper—These 37 J.Crew, Banana Republic, Zara, Nordstrom, and Shopbop Items Are Giving
From pretty tops to cool pants.
-
I'm a Senior Fashion Editor—Meet the 36 Nordstrom Finds I'm Recommending to All My Fashion Friends
I've already heard from at least six satisfied customers.
-
27 Incredibly Tempting Summer Picks From Nordstrom and Zara That Scream It Girl
Did I mention everything is under $150?
-
Found: The Hyper-Elegant Summer Finds That'll Make You Look Like You Buy Your Groceries at Erewhon
Fake it till you make it.
-
These 30 Stunning Nordstrom Items Will Be the Stars of Your Summer Wardrobe
Gorgeous new staples.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—30 Must-Have Lightweight Denim Finds From Nordstrom I'm Loving This Summer
Everything from dresses to jeans to shorts.
-
I Live in NYC—These Are the Under-$200 Summer Basics in My Nordstrom Cart
It's about to be *hot.*
-
I Was a VIP Nordstrom Stylist—These 8 Elegant Basics Elevate a Wardrobe
Versatile and chic staples.