It’s all too easy to convince yourself that you need to go out and buy an all new wardrobe when a new season arrives. (Last year was so last year…) But the truth is, you don’t need to. If you really want to rev up your look for fall, try stocking up on these super easy, low-maintenance pieces that make everything else you already own totally shine (think: white tee, favorite jeans) and look absolutely right on trend for fall 2017.
1 Insert a pop of (blush) pink
If you haven’t heard of millennial pink by now, it’s time to get in on a blushing color trend. Similar to rose quartz—or the palest powder pink—this color is no doubt the hue to wear this fall. Think of it as your “new neutral,” as it works well with a variety of shades, from the more obvious (like tan and black), to bolder, more dramatic jewel tones.
2 Clear up the ankle bootie conversation
Ankle boots are an autumn staple—they work well with jeans, skirts, and dresses, making them one of the most versatile, and likely worn out, items in your closet. Instead of buying that same exact pair again, add a fashion-forward element by choosing a pair with a chunky, Lucite heel. Also, choose a bootie where the shoe is a different color (like black, brown, or yes, pink), and pair with rolled-up boyfriend jeans and a striped sweater for a great a change of pace.
3 Grab a blazer with a touch of whimsy
Yes, a blazer is forever, but this fall, make sure you find one that’s a bit different than your stuffy standard blazer. Maybe that’s going double-breasted, finding one with bell-sleeves (another big trend for fall 2017), or one with power, 1980s-style shoulder pads. Now, for more great wardrobe-stocking tips
4 Try fresh sneakers with every outfit you’ve got
Luxe athleisure is still having a moment in fashion, which is great news: It means you’ve got a seriously chic excuse to stay more comfortable for longer. Classic white kicks, like the Nike Cortez, are having a moment. (It’s a vintage sneaker that’s been revived by Nike with none other than Bella Hadid, model of the moment, at the helm.) Pair ‘em with everything in your wardrobe from dresses to jeans to make a more formal piece look casual, or, you know, just because you wanna be comfortable. But keep them clean, please!
5 Slip on a lacy bralette or tank for layering
Scroll through any It Girl’s Instagram feed and you’ll see a lacy tank or bralette peeking out somewhere this summer. The trend’s here to stay for fall, with lacy tanks being layered over white tees in homage to the 1990s. (Or, if you’re in a warmer climate, you’ll see them layered underneath sheer tanks and tees.) Bonus: It technically counts as underwear, which is a separate shopping budget, right?!
6 Step into wide-leg jeans
While we’ll always have love for our skinnies and boyfriend jeans—especially the vintage, lived-in pairs—shopping for a pair of wide-leg jeans will instantly elevate your fashion credibility and give you a litany of new outfits. Since they’re high-waisted, they look best with a top tucked in and a great belt (if you feel like accessorizing). All of this means you’ve got countless options to pair with your new denim already in your closet.
7 Chain Strap Purse
Bigger is not better when it comes to your handbag this fall (which your back and shoulders are already grateful for). Instead, try a trendy chain-strap or metal-handled purse with geometric, graphic lines and sturdy materials. While investing in a luxe version is worth the money, there are affordable options that can do the trick.
8 Invest in a beautiful coat—or buy a fashionable array of options
If you think about your cooler-weather wardrobe, you’re almost always with a jacket, a cape, or a coat. Rather than sticking with basic black, choose something that has personality and style while still working for a plethora of places and occasions. Whether it’s going all out on a print, layering a windbreaker unexpectedly under a denim jacket, or just adding a bunch of cool, vintage-found pins to an old peacoat, you’ll have heightened style no matter when or where you’re caught.
9 Bust out the concert merch from days past
Free idea: Instead of spending money on slogan tees (although there are some great new ones for fall), bust out concert merch from shows past you’ve attended. Think about it: If you just hemmed an inch off that NKOTB tee shirt, it’d look very on trend tucked into a pleated midi skirt. Can’t you see it already?
10 Switch up your hair color
If you’re not ready to buy a new statement piece—or just wear a daily uniform (no judgment!)—try a fresh hair color for fall. Go to a stylist and add lowlights for depth and dimension, toy around the idea of bayalage, or go super dark. Just make sure you head to a pro for any major color changes to avoid serious (and possibly permanent) hue mishaps.
