Basic, Never Boring: These 9 Essentials Are Defining My Fall Wardrobe

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We're only a week into fall, and I've already overhauled my closet. I'm moving all of my tank tops and minidresses to the side and bringing the true fall essentials to the forefront. These are the core pieces I wouldn't dare enter the season without: blazers, button-ups, trousers, and more.

Calvin Klein has mastered the art of basics that never feel boring, and I'm not ashamed to say that my screen time has increased just from browsing all the options. To make the shopping experience even more seamless, the brand curated a list of Calvin Klein Essentials, which includes all the foundational pieces that you're bound to reach for day after day and season after season. I'm embracing these not-so-basic basics, but I'm also keeping track of the standout pieces that you'll want to wear this season. Keep scrolling for my top 10 picks.

The key to layering is having the perfect base. The beauty of a base layer is the ability to wear it throughout all four seasons. As we head into chillier weather, layers are crucial when the daily forecast randomly goes from 65° and cloudy to 75° and sunny. Take this ribbed tank, for example, which is perfect for tucking into straight-leg jeans and draping a sweater over. When the weather is still nice enough to wear dresses, a slip dress is ideal. Style it with lug-sole boots and an oversize sweater for a day of apple picking, a cozy fall dinner, or even a workday at the office. If it's a warmer day, pair the dress with the crisp button-down shirt below for that relaxed look.

My fall wardrobe is not complete without an assortment of bottoms. I practically live in loose-fitting, low-slung trousers on my office days and even on the weekends. What can I say? The comfort is unmatched, and you're guaranteed to look chic regardless of what you wear on top. When I'm not wearing trousers, I slip into a pair of bootcut jeans. This medium-wash style throws me right into that fall feeling, especially when paired with a pointed-toe boot. If you're going for an edgier vibe, you can opt for the Original Straight Fit Jean in black. (Peep the matching denim jacket.) I keep these pants on heavy rotation but never feel like I'm playing it safe because of how many ways I can style them. Style any of the bottoms below with loafers, boots, heels, or sneakers and just about any top for an elevated ensemble.

Don't tell the others, but I'm always the most excited about outerwear. Give me all the jackets, blazers, and sweaters. For a casual vibe, I always gravitate toward jackets with button details because they allow me to cover up or show off my base layers as much as I want. This one is called the Classic Trucker Jacket for a reason (emphasis on "classic"). It's a timeless staple that my fall wardrobe simply can't function without. On the other hand, blazers have become my go-to when I want to look a little bit more polished without committing to a full suit. I love the relaxed fit of this one because it's easy to pair with a more fitted bottom and a casual tee. When the goal of the day is to remain cozy, I opt for a sweater. And I'm at peak coziness when I can walk around in extra-fine merino. The collar of this sweater adds a bit of sophistication without losing the cool factor.