Around this time of year, when it seems like the hot and sticky weather will never end, I find myself yearning for fall classics like sweaters, boots, and everything plaid. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still enjoying summer staples, like breezy dresses and racerback tanks, but it’s always fun to think ahead toward everything the next season has to offer. So, on that note, I wanted to share some of the key fall 2021 items I’m particularly excited to test out in the next few months. Here’s a rundown of some autumnal basics that are simple yet highly versatile!

Nothing says fall like sweaters! “Sweater weather” is basically a synonym for fall. And it seems like we cycle through various knitwear trends, from long and loose cardigans to cold-shoulder pullovers to rugby-style sweaters. This year we’re back on the chunky knits train. However, to switch things up, stores are offering cropped versions of thicker woven sweaters. Look for cardigans, sweater vests, and turtlenecks in cable or ribbed weaves with shorter hems and in vibrant colors. The cropped silhouette for fall isn’t so much about having an open midriff but instead meant to layer over long-sleeved tees or button-ups to add texture, color, and pattern to your fall looks. Plus, with jeans and trousers coming in higher-waist fits, a cropped chunky knit will give you the coziness you crave in fall but not overwhelm your frame with too much bulk.

Another knitwear basic for this season is a knit midi dress. Whether it be a ribbed knit or more of a crochet knit, this version of a sweater dress is meant to be a bit more fitted and act as a transitional piece. A tank version can be worn on its own now; then, as the mornings become breezier and crisper, a knit dress can be layered over a turtleneck and tights or worn with boots and a blazer. A long-sleeved V-neck version can also be transitional, but instead of summer-to-fall, it can be a cozy part for a fall-to-winter look. Wear it with leggings and a cardigan as those crisp mornings become chilly.

As mentioned previously, high-waisted silhouettes for jeans and trousers are becoming wardrobe staples. This fall, look for dark-washed and black denim versions to wear with collared shirts and leather jackets. If you’re going with a wide-leg jean, be sure to alter it so the hem isn’t dragging, or wear a thick heel to keep your jeans off the ground. To avoid hemming, opt for a flared, cropped-leg jean that can be worn with sneakers or both ankle and knee-high boots. For high-waisted pants, go with loose trousers, whether they be pull-on pants or softer suiting style. Proportions are key with a higher-rise pant. With the extra volume in the wider leg, you’ll want to go for a fitted, tucked-in top, hence the crop sweater from above. If you’re not inclined to a shorter shirt, go with a bodysuit to streamline your overall look.

I’m a fan of mixing styles by pairing tailored pieces with denim and more casual tops with suiting pants for both jeans and trousers.

After a summer of slip-ons and flip-flops, my feet are feeling a bit flat. As so many of us are returning to a standard office this season, I hope to get back into heels for fall. But not pumps, instead I’m turning my eye toward heeled loafers, which can walk the line between formality and comfort. A chunky loafer with a bit of lift also fits the bill. Loafers and brogues with a heel or thick sole are becoming a fall staple as they as they can be more chic than a basic pair of heels but not quite as casual as a sneaker.

Trench coats, leather jackets, jean jackets they’re all great outerwear for fall. This year, though, I’m looking toward an oversized, checkered blazer for my go-to topper. With the current trend of mixing dressier pieces with day-to-day wear, a blazer works with jeans, even leggings, as well as for the office with a pencil skirt or straight-fit trousers. A checkered version in neutrals like brown and beige, or black and grey, can be worn with brighter autumnal shades like orange, red, and purple. However, be cautious if wearing a bigger blazer with the wide-leg pants above. Depending on your height, two voluminous garments in the same outfit could overwhelm you. If you are on the taller side, you may be able to pull off a “suit” of this nature. If so, go for it!

A mid-length knit dress, cropped chunky sweater, high-waisted, wide-legged pants, heeled loafers, and an oversized blazer may not seem so basic at first wear. Whether you acquire a version of all five pieces, or just one, once you start mixing and matching them with items from your current cold-weather wardrobe, you may be surprised at how versatile they can be. Or, if you already have these pieces in your closet, think about ways to pair them with each other for a fresh fall look.