The start of fall signals an end to summer’s laid back vibe and the return to routine. On the wardrobe front, it’s time to re-evaluate your clothes and ensure you have the right pieces to look your best. Here are a few fashion investments that you can depend on for many falls to come.

Sleek dresses, tweed jackets and ankle boots for women

While a flattering little black dress can be a classic look, change things up and opt for a sleek silhouette in any dark neutral shade. Cashmere and rayon are two popular fabrics, and it’s worth splurging on a timeless, quality piece that’s flexible throughout the fall season. You can use your dress as a canvas for simple statement accessories that will take you from desk to drinks. When the weather cools, tights can make for a stylish pairing with your outfit.

You can also invest in a tailored tweed jacket that you’ll likely keep for life. The gorgeous texture will add instant visual interest to your outfit and a neutral color will go with just about anything. Pair with a v-neck or button-down shirt for a dressy and enduring look.

For footwear, black leather ankle boots go well with several styles. Boots with minimal embellishments will add a touch of sophistication to your ensemble. You’ll likely be wearing them on a regular basis, so choose a high quality design that can stand the test of time.

Sports jackets and leather brogues for men

An unstructured sports jacket is the worthy investment to make this fall. Look for unlined versions that are tailored to the body but still give the jacket a comfortable and flexible fit. Wear it over a button-down shirt as a business-casual option or over a cotton shirt during a laissez-faire weekend. This particular piece will be in your wardrobe for the long haul.

When it comes to shoes, seek out a pair of dependable leather brogues. This classic men’s footwear works well with suits or jeans (there’s a reason they’re in your dad and granddad’s closets). For today’s modern man, socks are optional, although pairing classic shoes with a brightly patterned pair is a fun way to add a splash of personality.

Leather jackets and dark denim for both

A leather jacket in smooth luxe lambskin can look like a dream with work pants or jeans. You’ll likely have only one of these staple pieces in your closet, so take the time to choose something that will last—and that you will love.

As for denim, there might be several pairs circulating in your wardrobe, but we all have that one go-to pair that feels priceless. High quality, tailored dark jeans are a must-have staple. Ladies, dress your denim up with a blazer and heels or down with a T-shirt and ballet flats. Guys, kick your denim game up a notch by layering on a sports jacket.

Caring for your investment pieces

Cleaning

• To maintain a fresh look for your tweed jacket, a steamer will do the trick. In many cases, tweed will get distorted when wet—defer to a professional cleaning service if you get a stain on your jacket.
• The same treatment goes for your sports jacket if it gets dirty, but you can air dry it outdoors to remove any odors.
• A clothes brush also works wonders in removing dirt or small specks from your investment pieces.
• If your dress is made of a blend like cashmere, you can wash it by hand in cold water with a gentle detergent. Then air dry, but keep it out of the sunlight to avoid color damage.
• When it comes to expensive denim, it’s better to avoid cleaning it too often. Instead, soak your jeans in cold water and a bit of mild detergent; then rinse with cold water. Some high-end brands suggest freezing the dirt away. That’s right—place your favorite raw denim in a sealed bag in your freezer. The cold temperature will help to kill bacteria, leaving your jeans smelling and feeling fresh.
• Keep leather shoes looking like new by using a soft damp cloth and a drop of mild soap to wipe off any dirt. Follow up with shoe polish to make them shine again, and apply some conditioner in between wears to keep the leather soft. Check out our leather guide for more details.

Storing

• Garments that wrinkle easily like dresses or jackets should be hung on non-slip hangers or ones with clips. To help your leather jacket maintain its shape, opt for a sturdy wooden hanger.
• You can fold knitwear and durable pieces like dresses or jeans.
• For more info, our guide to clothes storage has got you covered. Quality clothing can be a big investment upfront, but choosing key timeless pieces and taking good care of them will ensure their longevity in style and value.

Photos: Margot Pandone, Ramon Carretero / Shutterstock.com, FXQuadro / Shutterstock.com, Brandon Couch, Jason Briscoe