I don’t know about you, but I like to make lists. I put together lists all year round that suit whatever I’m working on at the time. My list today is about the essential items that a good working wardrobe ought to include for the upcoming fall/winter season. These are items that you should have multiples of in most cases so you can adapt them to the layering trend that’s so prevalent in fashion these days.  But seriously, has layering ever been out? Multiple layers not only keep you toasty warm with the pendulum swing of the temperature, but they can also keep you looking smokin’ hot on the style scene to boot! Knowing what you need to own and what you lack is the key to having a successful and less stressful shopping experience. Let’s list the pieces you must have this fall and winter, and if you’re missing these important wardrobe building blocks, you know that your local Goodwill is a great place to start searching them out.

Base pieces are the first items you’ll need to start your layering journey. I look for long sleeved t-shirts with a range of necklines. You should always have an assortment of turtleneck, scoop, crew neck and v-neck knits to wear under other items.  Keep in mind that these pieces will not be the “star” of your show, but should be able to mix easily with other items, so stick to solid colors. Neutrals like black, white and gray are always a good bet - and I like to throw in navy blue, as well as a few other colors that will look good as they peek out from under whatever you wear over them.

Knit pullover sweaters are our next must have. My rule is that I have lots of lightweight, fine-scale knit sweaters, simply because they work under blazers and other coats for fall and winter layering.  Again, make sure to have a variety of colors and neckline styles. In my fashion book, I stick to pure wool and wool blends if possible since they hold their shape much better on average than all cotton. The crème de la crème, of course, would be to find some cashmere sweaters, too! 

Cardigans are a great way to replace a traditional blazer or jacket in the fall and winter season. For men and women they will work with shirt and tie, or blouse and skirt equally well. Then on the weekends you can wear them over a graphic print t-shirt for a completely different look. Shape is important here, so make sure that the fit skims the body but doesn’t add a lot of bulk.  Oversize is fine, just not for the office look, so stick to more classic button down looks.

In my style experience these are the pieces that we ALL reach for when the chill sets in. They work perfectly for dressing up or down and will allow you to be creative with your accessorizing as well. So go ahead - make a list! Or, should I say make a list of the items you truly need to help you make your style unique and special. Then, list in hand, head to your local Goodwill where you never know what you’ll find, but you can count on the fact that you’ll be amazed with the variety of items and the low, low, prices!!