The 4 Must-Have Pieces for Fall

The Gray Dress: Work

Try charcoal instead of black—less stark, but just as good a mixer.

"Clean lines, good construction, not too trendy—this dress is so my style," says interior decorator Erica Obert-Male, 41, of the long-sleeved wool sheath (Ellen Tracy, $398). What gives it pizzazz: adding some color. It's important to look coordinated in the office, so the belt (Hobo International), bag (The Jack Rabbit Collection), and pumps (Nine West) are all a similar shade of wine. Gold-tone jewelry (necklace, Isabel Harvey; watch, Longines) adds warmth and class.