Welcome to 10 Things to Buy, a monthly shopping list that helps you shop smarter by focusing on the 10 key items to add to your cart that month if your wardrobe is in need of a boost. As a Who What Wear editor for the past 12 years, I’ve spent many hours advising people on what to shop for during any given season, so you’re in good hands. Whether you’re shopping for cold weather, warm weather, a vacation, or a wedding, I’m here to offer up the most seasonally appropriate suggestions. Be sure to return at the start of each month for more.

Something about me: I certainly don’t hate trends. In fact, I love them, but what I do hate is investing in things that feel overplayed and stale a year later. This is exactly what I used to guide my selections of the top ten things to buy this September. The items highlighted below will make your outfits look fresh (and like you’re in the know when it comes to fashion), but not like you’re simply buying the most obvious trends that you see everyone else wearing.