Last week I participated in an Instagram challenge with some amazing blogger gals, hosted by Lindsay & Tarilyn.  We were challenged to show our top 5 must-haves for fall & winter.  Check out #the5musthaves for lots of inspiration & everyone’s list!  I shared my top 5 over the course of the week on Instagram, but I also wanted to list them in one place for easy reference.  I know, I know, it’s almost springtime (it’s been in the 70’s here until today).  But, it’s also a great time to get fall & winter items on sale, so stock up on these wardrobe essentials for next year!  I’ve rounded up my top 5 below & linked up tons of great options for each.

1. Over-the-Knee Boots

Every gal needs an over-the-knee boot in a neutral color.  I wear mine like crazy all winter.  They work with jeans & a sweater for a more casual look, or leather leggings for a more edgy look.  They’re perfect with a mini skirt for a sexy date night.  I prefer mine with a bit of a heel, but I prefer most of my shoes with a heel, lol.  I’m hoping to snag a pair in taupe on sale soon & stash them away for next fall!

2. Neutral Sweater Dress

This dress was actually a full post last week.  Quite simply, a sweater dress will never go out of style.  There’s a reason that it appears, year after year, season after season.  I wear it with tights & heels for work, with over-the-knee boots for date night, or layered with a jacket & heels for a girls dinner – it’s one of the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe.

3. White Button-Down

A white cotton button is always a classic.  It works on its own with dark denim or you can layer it under any spring & summer look to extend a sleeveless top into fall & winter.  I spent a long time struggling to find the perfect white button down.  I wanted a crisp shirt with just the right amount of tailoring & stretch.  You know what I mean, just a little fitted but not too tight, no strained buttons in the chest (aren’t those the worst?), & a length that will stay tucked in.  Enter Ann Taylor’s Perfect Shirt!  Seriously, I need it in black now, too.

4. Blanket Scarf

A blanket scarf is one of the most versatile pieces in my fall/winter wardrobe.  It’s the perfect accessory to add to any sweater or dress, or layer under a jacket.  I’m a bit of an addict & am developing quite the collection.  They’re a great way to add a pop of color & a bit of interest.  Plus, you don’t have to spend a fortune to change up your look, I found so many great scarves at Target this year & they are on sale now for $10!  I love wrapping one around my neck to keep warm on the way to work, then cozying up with it around my shoulders at my desk!  It’s like a meat locker in my office, so it’s not surprising to find me bundled up at the computer during the day.

5. Dark Denim

Whether classic or distressed, skinny or bootcut, a great pair of dark denim will take you from the earliest days of fall to the coldest days of winter.  I tend toward skinny denim because of my height, but I’m looking to try some bootcut or flares this spring – #staytuned.  AG is my favorite brand, but Articles of Society, Topshop, & Express all have great denim options.  I love the polished look of a darker wash for casual Friday’s at the office or a dressier date night.

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