With the onslaught of new fall trends in the spotlight, it can be easy to get wrapped up in all the freshness coming your way. Because let's just call a spade a spade: The forthcoming runway must-haves are good. Like, really good. That said, autumn also brings with it a range of closet standbys (think black ankle boots) that could easily rival some of the latest trendy items thanks to their classic nature. We've actually found that women over the age of 40, in particular, have nailed down this perfect assortment of fall classics that withstand the test of time.
Because when you think about it, you've probably developed a certain level of sartorial confidence by the age of 40 and are thus fully aware of the versatile pieces needed to build a functional wardrobe as a result. Stylish celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Sarah Jessica Parker are especially in tune with those effortless basics that make for a well-rounded closet. Keep scrolling for a deeper dive into the foundational staples that many in this age bracket rely on for fall.
Knit Dress
A timeless LBD featuring 3/4-length sleeves is a foundational piece every woman needs. While you can wear as is with heels like SJP here, the silhouette is also ideal to build an effortless fall fit with on-trend outerwear and other layering pieces.
On Sarah Jessica Parker: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Celine Embellished Sparkle Mary Jane Pumps ($450)
Shop the staple:
Cardigan
While shrunken cardigans made a major comeback this spring and summer, a classic iteration will always hold true for fall. We're all about buttoning your go-to style all the way up with leggings or jeans for a streamlined feel.
On Victoria Beckham: Chanel knit; Victoria Beckham Stirrup Leggings ($1136) and clutch
Shop the staple:
Turtleneck
Statement-making turtlenecks have become a layering essential for women at every age. A flawless silhouette (like this neon-green iteration here) adds that cool sophistication to a fall look.
On Tracee Ellis Ross: Louis Vuitton sneakers
Shop the staple:
Midi Skirt
No, that above-the-knee skirt won't cut it come fall. Take a cue from this ensemble by incorporating a fashion-forward midi into your rotation.
On Katie Holmes: Dorothee Schumacher shirt; Zeynep Arcay skirt; Jimmy Choo pumps; Gucci bag
Shop the staple:
Wide-Leg Trousers
While you could consider wide-leg pants to be a year-round staple, they're especially ideal for fall to elevate a jacket-and-tee pairing.
On Jennifer Aniston: Bottega Veneta blazer; Chanel bag
Shop the staple:
Black Booties
Black ankle boots would certainly rank high as one of the top wardrobe essentials thanks to their versatile nature. You can dress them up—similar to this fit—or down to work for any fall occasion.
On Thandie Newton: Louis Vuitton look
Shop the staple:
Moto Jacket
A perfect-fitting leather jacket not only looks cool, but it pairs well with a range of outfits for a downtown edge.
WHO: Cindy Crawford
Shop the staple:
Trench Coat
Tossing on a trench coat will keep you warm on those days when the temperature teeters on chilly (but not freezing) while simultaneously adding a classic yet modern flair to your vibe.
WHO: Jane Fonda
Shop the staple:
Suiting
A tailored suit is particularly useful to have in your arsenal for fall because you can either wear as is when you want to look professional, or you can mix and match the pieces to work with other fall separates.
On Jennifer Lopez: Quay Australia sunglasses
Shop the staple:
Classic Overcoat
All you really need to look like the sleekest person on the street is a solid overcoat to bring instant polish to your ensemble.
WHO: Mindy Kaling
Shop the staple:
Next, check out some of the key fall trends to invest in now.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach for These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to WearReady in 10 minutes or less.
-
I Made a List of Fresh (But Still Classic) Basics I Would Happily Wear for the Next 5 YearsThey'll never let you down and can be styled endlessly.
-
The Only 9 Jackets You Need for Spring, According to Fashion PeopleThere's something for everyone.
-
I'm Giving My Closet an Expensive-Looking Facelift With These 24 Chic Sale PicksBring on the rich vibes
-
I Wear-Tested 15 Viral Belts and Honestly Think These 5 Are Worth the HypeIt's true.
-
And Now, 5 Elevated Ways to Wear Your Jeans in 2024Denim devotees, unite.
-
After 5 Days in Aspen, I'm Officially Hooked on Western Pieces—5 I'm Loving RNFrom cowboy hats to fringe accents.
-
I Asked Over 2000 Women Where to Buy the Best White Shirts—They Love These 23Your definitive guide.
