It’s time to refresh your staples—this season’s best takes on what you always wear

Look, we’re not trying to do anything too outlandish here. When it comes to New Year’s shopping, we’re not looking to reinvent the wheel. Of course, to keep things interesting, you’ll inevitably get some fun and unexpected (and perhaps elegant?) purchases. But mostly, shopping this season is about finding the latest updates to classic staples that I wear often. On repeat.

If you’re like me, you tend to anchor your wardrobe to a reliable little capsule of seasonal items. In my world, fall means classic denim, tailored pants, cool jackets, trench coats, chic flats, lightweight knits, and lots of basic tops that are perfect for layering. New items are being released all the time, but what about ultra-wearable updates to timeless staples? These 35 fresh pieces were hand-picked by me.

trench coat

My vintage trench has finally given up the ghost and I’m considering replacing it with something similar. I usually look in the men’s section to find the right slouchy fit, but there are also lots of great oversized options within women’s wear.

denim

I’ve said many times that despite creamy jeans’ reputation as a spring/summer staple, I think they’re a great option any time of the year. Relaxed denim is forever my favorite, and I’ll accept any rise or hem as long as it’s long enough to go with flats.

jacket

There are so many wonderful outerwears available now! From wool to vegan leather to suede, it’s very hard to stop yourself when it comes to slightly cropped styles. I’m only trying to decide on one great buy, but honestly, enjoy these five really great pieces that all deserve a place in my wardrobe.

basic tops

Last year I went out on the town wearing a really long sleeve ribbed t-shirt and I don’t regret it at all. I love the energy of Chandler and Ross with their white necklines popping out from under their knit sweaters. Right now I’m short on two more classic t-shirts, so I’m especially looking for different colors and thicker t-shirts.

apartment

I seriously thought I was anti-Mary Jane (loving Mary Jane for myself, loving Mary Jane for everyone else) until I found a really great slingback version at J.Crew in the spring. I was thinking. So perhaps it’s normal pairing time? There are classic leather or suede-like styles in neutral tones, and the outer lane has colorful velvet options that go with anything (and therefore everything).

pants

I now have a lot of sophisticated pants. In fact, I found a pair of pants at Frankie Shop last year that I liked so much that I bought them in both navy and dark burgundy. But that doesn’t mean you’re not looking for fresh tailored shoes, from wide-legged to slightly straighter, in just the right length to wear with your favorite flats.

knit

Between the lightweight cashmere from Nordstrom and this awesome chunky totem style I found last year, I’m all about V-neck sweaters for the foreseeable future. In the meantime, I’m on the hunt for classy cardigans, especially (but not exclusively) chic crewneck styles.