10 Timeless Fall Staples

Get ready for shorter and colder days in these classic pieces

Written by RJ Firchau

For better or for worse, fall officially begins next week and we can’t deny the inevitable any longer: cold weather is coming… and soon. So as you spend this last weekend of summer BBQing outdoors, excitedly (begrudgingly?) sipping a nice cold scotch, and saying your goodbyes to hot (sometimes too hot) weather, know that come next week, it’s time to start mentally preparing for fall. Arguably the best season of the year when it comes to style, fall is all about warm, rich colors, chunky textures, and lots of versatile layers. So gents, it’s time to make some necessary fall acquisitions to ready yourself for the coming season, and we’re here to help. We’ve curated a list of ten fall-friendly wardrobe pieces that you’ll want to be adding to your closets, stat. With these 10 versatile pieces in tow, you’ll be nailing fall style with ease.

1. Turtleneck

Flip open the September issue of GQ or take a peek at any fall ‘15 menswear runway collection and you’ll see one commonality that can’t be missed: turtlenecks. Turtlenecks everywhere. Turtlenecks are extremely versatile–stock up and wear them on their own or under a suit in place of a standard button-up.

Our Pick: Men’s Extra Fine Merino Turtleneck Sweater, Uniqlo, $40

2. Shawl-Collar Cardigan

Characterized by a collar that folds back onto itself in a continuous and tapering line along the neckline, shawl-collar cardigans are a unique, yet classic, fall necessity. Perfect for those days that the weather seems a bit unpredictable, the shawl-collar cardigan lends itself nicely to layering and completing any look. They are a cool substitute for a bomber jacket or sweatshirt. Pair yours with a laidback t-shirt and tailored trousers for a dynamic look.

Our Pick: Cable Knit Shawl Collar Cashmere Cardigan, Norstrom, $298

3. Denim Jacket

It’s often said that nothing fills the void between seasons better than a trusty denim jacket. Classic and always in style, the denim jacket is a must for fall. You can wear yours with anything from a casual white t-shirt to suit trousers and a button-up and still look pulled together. Also, throwing on extra layers under or over your denim jacket always (somehow) manages to look effortless.

Our Pick: The Jean Jacket, Bonobos, $128

4. Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots are clean, comfortable, easy to put on, and a great alternative to more heavy-duty cold weather footwear. We recommend having multiple pairs in various colors, but if you can only swing one pair, go for black. Black leather chelsea boots are polished and can be worn with suits, whereas tan or brown suede chelsea boots will work best with jeans or chinos.

Our Pick: Standard Fortyfive Leather Chelsea Boots, Asos, $125

5. Chunky Knits

Sweaters this fall are leaning toward the chunkier side. Textured knits of varying styles–waffle, cable knit, honeycomb, you name it–are great staples for fall. Monochromes are great, but you can take this piece one step further this season by trying some multi-colored knits in cool geometric patterns, if you’re feeling so inclined.

Our Pick: Structured Sweater, Zara, $50

6. Trousers (Cuffed, Please)

Don’t roll down the cuffs of your chinos just yet. This look is sticking around for fall 2015. Incorporate some darker hues into the mix for fall, like marsala, olive green, and charcoal.

Our Pick: Men Slim Fit Chino Flat Front Pants (in Dark Green), Uniqlo, $40

7. Rain Sneakers

A reliable, stylishly-inclined pair of water-resistant sneakers is a great alternative to your normal footwear for those awkward fall days that it’s somewhat warm but pouring out. Rain sneakers are fully waterproof and lightweight to trudge around in. And, they look pretty stylish, too.

Our Pick: Men’s Strala Rain Boot, Trentorn, $70

8. Long Cardigan

An nice alternative to your traditional jackets and cardigans, a longer variety is essential for fall. Throw one on to look instantly studious (and instantly warm). It’s as simple as that.

Our Pick: Shawl-Collar Long Cardigan, Banana Republic, $140

9. Patterned Socks

Because we’d wager that cropped trousers might get a little chilly once the weather cools down, throwing some conversational socks into the mix is a great way to add another dimension of style and personality into your look.

Our Pick: Cypress Stripe Sock, Ties.com,$10

10. Plaid and Checked Anything

Anything plaid or checked–especially in rich fall colors–is a key look for fall 2015. A little lumberjack, a little grunge, injecting this pattern into your look by way of scarf, button-up, peacoat, or blazer is a great way to liven up an otherwise dark cold weather ensemble.

Our Pick: Slim Secret Wash Shirt in Heather Dark Green Plaid, J. Crew, $70

RJ Firchau

SOURCE: THE GENTLEMANUAL