When a new season comes along, it's easy to stockpile cheap finds to fill your wardrobe with the latest trends and essentials. After all, rebuilding your wardrobe is a lofty goal, so it's natural to want to spend as little as possible to get the job done. But as a fashion editor who studies the market for a living, I find it imperative to right that misconception once and for all.
Despite what we've been engineered to believe, just because something is high quality doesn't necessarily mean it's exorbitantly expensive, and moreover, plenty of luxury brands also offer pieces, especially basics, at a lower price than their standard ready-to-wear. Sure, you might not get a tank top or T-shirt for under $15 like you could at a fast-fashion brand. But for less than $250, you can absolutely pick up the essentials for a new season—ones that will last for years to come, fit 1000x better, and feel lavish and expensive. Trust me. Spending a little more to build out a lifelong wardrobe will save you in the long run.
For proof, scroll through the 35 fall staples from luxury retailers Net-a-Porter, Moda Operandi, and Nordstrom below.
Baseball Cap
When in doubt, throw on a good coat and a baseball cap.
'90s LBD
I'm in awe.
Khaki-Colored Trousers
These are a fan favorite among celebs.
Ugg Platforms
Elsa Hosk and Gigi Hadid can't stop wearing these platform Uggs.
Dark-Wash Jeans
Dark-wash jeans feel so luxe and elevated compared to light-wash ones.
Muscle Tank
Fact: K.ngsley makes the coolest tank tops.
Slip Skirt
Vince's slip skirts are top-tier.
Simple Chain
To wear with absolutely everything.
Cashmere Gloves
Cold weather's going to come out of nowhere. Be prepared with a pair of these long cashmere gloves.
Classic Blazer
A good blazer is essential all year long.
Wool Scarf
This color is too pretty to pass up on.
Leather Pants
These leather-like pants are downright incredible.
Comfy Crew-Neck
Toss this on with practically anything and it'll look incredible.
Leggings
Leggings for fall. Groundbreaking.
Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
Layer this tee or wear it solo. Either way, it'll look polished yet casual.
Cool Sneakers
Just wait—these sneakers will be everywhere in no time.
Suit Vest
Suit up this fall.
Shop the matching The Favorite Pinstripe Straight-Leg Pants ($230).
Sheer Dress
Sometimes, all you need is an easy sheer dress for a night out.
Tube Top
Tube tops don't typically fall under the umbrella of autumn essentials, but since they've been so trendy this year, I'm taking this as an opportunity to transition them into fall.
Black Trousers
Puddle pants toe the line between trendy and timeless, making them a perfect addition to your wardrobe this season.
Micro Hoops
Prepare for compliments.
Denim Shirt
Denim shirts make for incredible styling pieces, and this one is especially cool.
Ballet Flats
Obviously, this list wouldn't be complete without a pair of ballet flats.
Fitted Bodysuit
It doesn't get easier than a stirrup jumpsuit, which can be paired with everything from boots to sandals, trench coats to leather jackets.
Black Sunglasses
I wear sunglasses seven days a week, 52 weeks a year, even when the sun isn't out.
Slip Dress:
Pair this with tights and heels for a more fall-appropriate look.
Everyday Tank
Totême makes the most irresistibly luxe basics.
Leather Coat
This '90s-inspired car coat will stand the test of time.
Satin Lounge Pants
The best thing about fall is styling loungewear with ready-to-wear to make a comfortable-cool look for even the coldest days.
Slippers
These inside-out Ugg slippers make for the perfect house shoes.
Beanie
This fisherman beanie is going to be atop my head all fall and winter.
Cashmere Sweater
Pair this cashmere sweater with a patterned or satin midi skirt for a very Prada-esque ensemble.
Boxy Tee
I own this boxy tee in red and have found it surprisingly easy to dress up.
Turtleneck Bodysuit
No tucking necessary.
Denim Midi Skirt
Long jean skirts are all anyone will be wearing this season—guaranteed.
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