6 Staples I'm Buying Before Fall Starts for an Elegant Wardrobe

I'm obsessed with Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's style, so as I started to think about how I'd like to dress for fall, she was the first person who came to mind. My relationship with her style has evolved over time, and as I look at her today, there's one word that my mind jumps to to describe all that she is: elegant. Without even trying, she gives off the stealth wealth vibes that simply scream effortless elegance. As fall approaches, it's the perfect time to draw inspiration from her paparazzi moments.

Whether you're stepping into a crisp autumn day to get a coffee or attending a formal evening event, you're going to want to look elegant. I decided to round up some staples that do just that. With Bessette-Kennedy in mind, channel timeless style with these picks.

1. Cool Vests

Woman wearing elegant fall staples.

(Image credit: @annelauremais)

Tailored vests are evolving from the traditional V-neck cut to high necklines and longline silhouettes. Whichever vest you choose, you can't go wrong this time of year.

2. Structured Jackets

Woman wearing elegant fall staples.

(Image credit: @mimixn)

The era of oversize jackets is over, and it seems like people are taking their favorite jackets to the tailor or buying them fitted. This has more of a '60s vibe to me, and I'm obsessed.

3. Column Skirts

Woman wearing elegant fall staples.

(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)

Right now, there's nothing more elegant to me than a column skirt. It's the floor-sweeping wardrobe staple that you can add any top to, and you'll look extremely elegant. If I could find a '90s Calvin Klein version of this, I'd go after it.

4. Watches

Woman wearing elegant fall staples

(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Buying a timeless watch shows that you know how to make a smart purchase, and what's more elegant than that? I've been vying for the classic timepieces that have been in the hands of fashion-industry insiders for generations while also loving some of the new designs.

5. Trench Coats

Woman wearing elegant fall staples

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Oversize trench coats are winners in my eyes, and as soon as it's warm enough, I'll be sliding into them. They're perfect on top of, well, everything. I'm in the market for a black one right now.

6. Pointed Flats

Woman wearing elegant fall staples.

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

I just got my first pair of pointed flats and simply can't wait to wear them out and about. They're a chic memento and very easy to walk around in. Something about flats feels more luxurious to me than most heels.

Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, rollerblading through New York City traffic, or exploring the latest luxury vintage boutique.