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

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.

Madewell Square Neck Vest

Aligne Leo Long Waistcoat

Maeve Square-Neck Tweed Vest

2. Structured Jackets

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.

Toteme Cinched Waist Moleskin Blazer

Dolan Ponte Military Blazer

Reformation Terra Jacket

3. Column Skirts

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.

Mango Slit Long Skirt

L'Academie By Marianna Hendry Maxi Skirt

Reformation Bella Skirt

4. Watches

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.

Versace La Greca Watch

Cartier Panthère de Cartier Watch

Breda Jane Watch

5. Trench Coats

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.

Sézane Clyde Trench Coat

J.Crew New Icon Trench

Marant Etoile Calcilda Cotton-Blend Trench Coat

6. Pointed Flats

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.

Marc Fisher Gunner Pointed Toe Flat

Madewell The Elsie Mary Jane Flat

Sam Edelman Cohen Slingback Pointy Toe Flat