KatieAugust is already over halfway over, and as shocked as I am at how fast time flies, fall is closer and closer. As many styles and trends as there are out there, what actually are the best looks for fall? InStyle broke it down into five key pieces for your basic fall wardrobe.
Cardigans
Sorry, Blair Waldorf, this round of button-downs was clearly inspired by our First Lady of fashion, Michelle Obama (right). Follow her lead and stockpile this staple in every color-button it up a la Liv Tyler (in Burberry, left), leave it open like Julia Roberts (in Dolce & Gabbana, center) or accessorize like Mrs. O. with a studded belt. Any way you wear it, this stylish sweater is guaranteed to be presidentially approved.
White Shirts
Blouse it out in romantic button-downs with feminine details. Both Naomi Watts (center) and Katie Holmes (left) gave a stylish touch to basic black suits with classic white shirts, while Kate Beckinsale (right) took her distressed denim to charm school with a ruffled design. Ageless and trend-proof, the versatile piece will last you for seasons to come.
Day Dresses
Fitted and feminine, a day dress is utterly professional-and utterly sexy (think ladies of Mad Men). Cameron Diaz (center) got chic in one step with a belted number from Stella McCartney, while Angelina Jolie (in Ralph Lauren Collection, left) and Kelly Ripa (in Victoria Beckham Collection, right) showed off their shapes in sophisticated sheaths. Bonus: add a few accessories and pull off the tights for a cocktail-ready look.
Bright Coats
Forget basic black-a fruit-hued topper is a surefire way to lift your mood while staying warm. Nicole Richie (left) wore a red Sonia by Sonia Rykiel peacoat, Eva Longoria Parker (right) finished her outfit with a cheery pink cover-up and Rachel Weisz (center) chose a turquoise boyfriend coat. Extra plus? Your standby neutrals will pop when paired with a high-octane hue.
Leather Jackets
Rev up your wardrobe with a biker-inspired topper that can be worn with absolutely everything. Miley Cyrus (left) added a cropped BCBG number to an after-dark fringed dress, while Jennifer Connelly (right) pulled the same trick with a quilted jacket and a delicate print skirt. Or, wear it for day like Jessica Biel (center), by layering a shrunken skin over a featherweight tank and skinny jeans.
