Summer can have its gloriously warm evenings—we’ll take autumn, which wins the wardrobe contest every time. Between the cozy materials (think: wool, leather, and suede), rich colors, and requisite layering, fall calls for a variety of looks. Which means it’s shopping time. We’re here to help get your closet ready with the 10 essential pieces that will get you through the season.

Leave the skiing parka for the high country, and invest in a chic coat for the city. Becken’s mohair coat (pictured above, $695) is both on-trend—plaid is everywhere this season—and timeless with its neutral, sophisticated tones. Available at Moxie, 5936 S. Holly St., Englewood; 303-694-0773; moxieinstyle.com

Candy-colored pastels appeared on runways as monochromatic looks or single, bold statement pieces. Pick an easy-to-mix item, like 360 Cashmere’s cozy turtleneck sweater ($391), and pair with one of the season’s earth tones (we suggest cobalt blue, cedar red, or olive green) for an unexpected and dramatic color combo. Available at Weekends, 1200 Pearl St., Boulder; 303-444-4231; weekendsboulder.com

If you’ve been reluctant to embrace the wide-leg pant trend, it’s time to come around. Opt for a wide leg trouser with a slight flare and a mid-rise, like Drew Clothing’s Mia pant ($255). Rethink your top and bottom proportions by pairing the trousers with a crop sweater, or tuck in a silk blouse and add a long-line blazer. Available at Rebel, 5910 S. University Blvd., Greenwood Village; 720-283-1004; shoprebel.com

From pea coats and naval-inspired capes to denim jackets and sweaters emblazoned with fashion “medals,” military wear remains trendy for fall. If you want a piece that’s functional and has wardrobe staying power, pick Citizens Of Humanity’s Tallulah jumpsuit ($308). Its neutral khaki color means it’ll play nice with just about anything, from a metallic turtleneck layered underneath to a slouchy sweater worn on top. Available at Blush, 1411 Larimer St.; 303-399-7779; shop-blush.com

Sitting higher than your basic crewneck (which hits at the collar bone) and lower than the turtleneck, the high crew is destined to enter regular rotation this season because of its versatility. Although basic cotton versions abound, go for a dressed up option in tulle or metallic. Dodo Bar Or’s black version ($315; also available in gold) adds a little glamour under a cardigan or jacket, but it’s also bold enough to be the star of an outfit when paired with a skirt or trouser. Available at Max, 264 Detroit St.; 303-321-4949; maxclothing.com

Velvet is always a winter favorite, but it shouldn’t just be a special occasion option. Choose a versatile blazer—like this navy one by Frame ($575)—and wear it with cropped flair jeans or thrown over a slip dress. Pick up the matching pants ($375) for a chic evening suit. Available at A Line Boutique, 5375 Landmark Place, Greenwood Village; 303-773-8200; aline-online.com

Over-the-knee boots are—once again—having a fashion moment. You could wear M4D3’s Olympia stretch suede boots ($265; available in both taupe and black) with the predictable leggings or mini skirts (sans tights, of course), but we think they look more sophisticated as styled at Givenchy: with a knee-length skirt or dress. Available at Scarpaletto, 1436 Larimer St.; 303-321-5771; scarpaletto.com

Looking for a sporty boot option? Try a chic version of the hiking boot, with clean lines that reduce the typical clunky styling of the outdoor variety. The Conquest by Sorel ($275) has a hidden wedge heel, making it perfect for pairing with crop flair pants in denim or leather, or to bring some edge to a fluid midi skirt or dress. Available at Strut, 3611 W. 32nd Ave.; 303-477-3361; strutdenver.com

Jewelry this season comes in two forms: Sculptural or punk-inspired. Modern pieces are great for enhancing minimalist, architectural clothing, but the latter mixes with nearly anything. These 14-karat gold Spike ear climbers (as shown, $250, but you can get them in a variety of metals, including bronze, which starts at $50) by Aspen’s own Colby June add just the right amount of toughness to any look, whether its street-inspired athleisure wear or dark feminine florals. Available at colbyjune.com

Although the idea of an “It” bag has waned in recent years, this season designers did zero in on one particular style: the crossbody bag. But the familiar design has received some updating. New versions have a more structured shape, making them less slouchy-boho and more ladylike and polished. We like this version by Building Block ($440). Available at Goldyn, 2040 W. 30th Ave.; 720-489-0580; shopgoldyn.com

Follow fashion editor Georgia Benjou on Twitter at @gabenjou, Pinterest at /gabenjou, and Instagram at /gabenjou.