3 Basics I’m Phasing Out and 3 Updated Versions I’m Adding to My Closet

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(Image credit: @sarahwisted)

Since I've always lived in California, I've never had to do a full-on seasonal wardrobe swap. I know many of you are officially relegating your summer sandals and sundresses to storage bins, but mine stay front-and-center all year long. That said, this does leave me with a bit of FOMO, so I very much look forward to adding thoughtful updates to my closet every season—80-degree-weather-in-October be damned.

Right now, I've decided to phase out three different categories of basics and replace them with updated, seasonally appropriate versions. Scroll down to find out exactly what I mean and shop my selections. 

Phasing Out: Baggy T-Shirts

Adding: Slim-Fitting Tops for Layering

This summer, I wore a lot of baggy T-shirts and other loose clothes to stave off the heat. However, these slouchy pieces aren't nearly as easy to layer as slim-fitting clothes, which add warmth but not bulk. Sleek pieces provide a smooth foundation so you can layer to your heart's content without any lumpy excess fabric. 

This sleek bodysuit can truly be styled in a million different ways. 

The ultimate wardrobe building block. 

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I love the cute ruffled trim on this turtleneck. 

Gray is such an underrated color. 

A crewneck T-shirt is an investment you'll never regret. 

This tee provides the perfect foundation for showing off a beautiful necklace. 

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

The kind of tank top you can wear with literally anything in your closet. 

I love how this is styled with a brown skirt for a tonal look. 

Seriously, you can't head into fall without a quality turtleneck. 

A sleek turtleneck like this one will instantly dress up jeans. 

Phasing Out: Skimpy Cutouts

Adding: Fall and Winter Ready Cutouts

Hot Girl Summer was awash with skimpy, lightweight cutout dresses and tops that just aren't practical now that colder weather is on the horizon. Luckily, there are plenty of more subtle ways to wear cutouts this season without freezing your butt off. 

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(Image credit: @thelanguageofyolande)

Yes, the cutout trend is here to stay. 

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Style this dress with boots and a camel coat for a foolproof outfit. 

I love how this top gives you that layered look without the bulk. 

Another chic way to test-drive the cutout trend. 

The ideal date-night top, if I do say so myself. 

I'm obsessed with this spiced orange color. 

Phasing Out: Bright Colors

Adding: Warm Earth Tones

I intend on revisiting all my brightly colored clothes next spring and summer, but for fall I'm laser-focused on earth tones. These comforting hues fit right in with the changing leaves and cozy Hocus Pocus vibes of fall. 

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(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

This dress is begging to be styled with your new fall boots. 

You can also style this unbuttoned with a tank top underneath. 

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Just add a chunky cardigan for fall. 

This is the perfect midi length for wearing with tall boots. 

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Don't be afraid to get creative with how you style this cute sweater vest—the options are endless. 

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(Image credit: @c__bellamy)

This ultra-soft cardi just screams fall. 

Yes, I highly recommend investing in the matching set for an instantly cool outfit with no effort. 

The ideal lightweight cardigan to wear indoors during chilly weather. 

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(Image credit: @mayisha.nyc)

This soft cardigan is truly a delight to wear. 

Comfy enough for WFH; chic enough for brunch. 

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(Image credit: @courtneecrews)

When colder weather hits, layer this vest over a sleek black turtleneck with chunky gold jewely. 

A relaxed fit khaki trouser is the pants look of right now.

I own approximately 9 different striped sweaters but I will definitely be making room for this one. I particularly love the pretty bell sleeves.

Next, 39 new knee-high boots to wear with skinny jeans

Associate Director, Fashion News

Erin got her start as aBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing intern over 13 years ago—back when the site only published a single story per day. (Who What Wear has since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC, which is how she ended up moving to Los Angeles from her hometown of San Diego. In college, she also interned at Refinery29, where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2016, where she currently holds the title of Associate Director of Fashion News (as well as the unofficial title of resident royal expert—in case you haven't noticed her numerous Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton stories). She spends her days trying to incorporate her idols, Anna Wintour and Roger Federer, into as many stories as possible. Outside of work, she loves tennis, classic rock, traveling, and smothering her dog with affection.