11 Essential Fall Style Staples Every Guy Needs Now

This is basically Men's Fall Fashion For Dummies.

1. Dark Denim

Gap

What are you doing with all that whiskering around your crotch, bro? Time to upgrade your leg game with an all-over dark-wash jean. Yes, you can even go black. It's about 100 times easier to dress up than distressed denim, and you'll get way more wear out of it. Remember jeans are an investment piece, so don't skimp – and pick out a slim fit. Like the name implies, it'll slim you down.

Pictured: J. Crew Wallace & Barnes Slim Selvedge Jean ($248)

Levi's Commuter Slim Cut Jeans ($88)

2. Corduroy and Colored Denim

J Crew / Via jcrew.com

Because you can't wear jeans all the time – sometimes your legs gotta get dressed up. That's where cords come in. They've been around forever, but now they actually come in flattering fits. It's also a chance to play with color (FYI, green is in, in a big way), though you'll find more options in the denim department.

Pictured: J Crew's Bedford Cord in 770 Fit, Utility Green ($88)

J Crew's 770 Garment Dyed Jean, Dusty Camel ($108)

3. Sweatpants

H&M

shadesofgreyclothing.com

A begrudging thanks to Kanye West for this trend. Yes, you can wear sweatpants, but not just any sweatpants. They need to be joggers – more fitted and structured, and look for styles that have design features, like zippers and exposed pockets. This is definitely not an everyday look, but perfect for a lazy Sunday at the movies.

Pictured: H&M's Sweatpants With Quilted Details and Zips at Knees ($34.95)

Shades of Grey Lounge Pant ($138)

4. Crew Neck Sweatshirts

J Crew / Via jcrew.com

If you're leaving the house, ditch the hoodie and slip on this classic, by itself or over a button-down. It's the perfect weight for tailgating – no jacket needed – and says, "I own more than T-shirts, people!" Plus, you can play with prints and designs you might otherwise avoid (see, elephant above). Everyone is making these –from H&M to Lacoste – so no matter your budget, you can try the trend.

Pictured: J Crew's Colorblock Sweatshirt, Heather Pilot ($85)

David Sheldrick For J Crew's Wildlife Trust Elephant Sweatshirt ($69.50)

5. Oxfords

Bonobos / Via bonobos.com

It's time to remove the frat house stigma from this must-have. The Oxford transitions seamlessly from casual to dressy. It's a heavier-weight than a basic button-down, making it perfect for that awkward transitional time when you're freezing in the morning and burning up by lunch. Roll up the sleeves and you're good to go. Oxfords come in more than just basic blue now, so embrace some pattern.

Pictured: Bonobos' Rhodes Collar Oxford, Magenta ($78)

Bonobos' Rhodes Collar Oxford, Navy & Pink Tattersall ($88)

6. Chambray

Old Navy / Via oldnavy.gap.com

People often call this a "denim shirt," but they're not the same thing. Chambray is made from a lighter fabric, usually linen. It's another classic (Esquire dubbed it "the Bruce Springsteen of men's wear"), perfect for the changing weather — button it up for the office, then layer it over a tee and pair it with some jeans for happy hour. Just be careful not to match the chambray wash to your denim wash. No one wants a full-on Canadian tuxedo.

Pictured: Old Navy Slim-Fit Chambray Shirt, Dark Wash ($34.50)

Old Navy Slim-Fit Textured Chambray Shirt, Mariana Trench ($24.00)

7. Flannel

Uniqlo / Via uniqlo.com|/men/featured/flannel/shirts/|

When it's not quite sweater weather, it's flannel weather. Now, this isn't your Dave Grohl, grungy flannel. This is sophisticated flannel, and yes, there's such a thing. The patterns are smaller now, so flannel makes less of a, "Hey, I'm a lumberjack!" statement, and more of a, "I'm cool and know how to dress myself," one. Layer it over a colored v-neck (not too deep), or under a simple jacket for that effortless look.

Pictured: Uniqlo Men's Flannel Check Long Sleeve Shirt, Dark Grey ($29.90)

Uniqlo Men's Flannel Check Long Sleeve Shirt, Navy ($29.90)

8. Harrington or Bomber Jacket

ASOS / Via us.asos.com

Speaking of jackets, you need one. Fall is all about layering. One option is the Harrington, which falls somewhere between a motorcycle silhouette and a windbreaker, and goes with everything — so long as you stick with a neutral, like navy or khaki. Second option is the varsity look ... just make sure you look old enough to pull off the vintage style. You don't want people asking you what high school you go to, right?

Pictured: Asos Lyle & Scott Vintage Harrington Jacket, Navy ($190.43)

ASOS Bomber Jacket In Puppytooth, Gray ($104.74)

9. Chukka Boots

Zappos / Via zappos.com

It's time to trade in the boat shoes for boots. Clarks' desert boots are a classic, and come in a bunch of neutral shades — just pick your poison. You can add a pop of color by switching up the laces. If you're scared of suede, look for a leather boot in a chukka style, which hits right at or above the ankle. Either one will pair well with denim, cords or even chinos. And don't forget to pick up some boot socks — no one wants rubbed-raw ankles.

Pictured: Clarks Desert Boot, Sand Suede ($130, Zappos)

Clae Hamilton Nubuck, Umber Leather ($140, Zappos)

10. High-Top Sneakers

Converse / Nike

Keep your gym shoes at the gym. These sneakers are for the bars and casual Friday, especially when you aren't feeling like wearing a boot. Converse recently rolled out a line of rubberized Chuck Taylors, perfect for rainy days and way cooler than a rain boot. Bonus, they come in the color of the moment, army green. If Chucks aren't your thing, Air Jordans never go out of style. Stick to a monochromatic pair, or else it'll look like you're headed to the basketball court instead of brunch.

Pictured: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Rubber, Pineneedle ($65)

Air Jordan 1 Mid, Cool Grey ($84.97)

11. Accessories

Ray-Ban / Polo Ralph Lauren

Don't be afraid to punch up an outfit with some "extras," but remember, basic is better — and scarves are reserved for snow days and Steven Tyler. Sunglasses and belts should be investment pieces (unless you're prone to losing them ... though if you're losing belts, we need to talk), so pick out styles that could work for you year-round. You can justify price by asking, "Would I get as many days wear out of these as dollars in the price?" A dollar a day ain't so bad.

For glasses, go for a neutral frame — think tortoiseshell — but step outside the wayfarer bubble. When it comes to belts, leather is better and braided is making a comeback, though opting for a mix of braided and flat leather (see above) will help you stretch the trend beyond this season.

Pictured: Ray-Ban Clubmater Oversized, Light Brown Gradient ($160)

Polo Ralph Lauren Braided Leather Belt, Tan ($98)