This fall, shopping is all about not breaking the bank -- after all, just paying the bills will cost more this year.  This is a good time to invest in basic pieces that you can mix and match and wear forever.  Choose pieces that will work together; stick primarily with neutrals but add a pop of color -- cool shoes or a bright bag.  Opt only for pieces that can be worn together; accessorize to change up your look.  

What should you have on your basics list for fall (and beyond)?  Here are ten basics, most of which are probably already in your closet!  All are essentially casual pieces, but since every day is Casual Friday any more, we'll start there.

Neutral tee.  White is flexible, but black or gray or pale pink is also good.  Choose one that fits well through the shoulders and chest, and is long enough to cover your backside when you sit down.  J. Crew has great basic tees in longer lengths for $22.50.

Cardigan in a fun, flattering color.  Cashmere is a good investment -- hand wash in baby shampoo and it will last forever -- but wool and cotton blends are nice as well.  Go with something pretty and punchy, but not too weird; choose a color that you'll really wear.  Ann Taylor Loft has a nice selection of cardis, including a basic crewneck for $39.50.

Blouse or top that is NOT a t-shirt.  A tee is great for every day, but sometimes, you want to step it up a little.  Ruffles are big this fall; Gap has a great tank with a fun collar for $44.00.

Tailored jacket.  Choose something that will work with the weather and your wardrobe. For cold climates, look for a slim pea coat; for warmer regions, a simple blazer.  Stick with neutral colors -- this is a piece that needs to work with everything.  A trench is always a good choice; Ann Taylor has a great patent-trimmed belted trench for $228.00.

Day dress.  A dress is the simplest thing in the world to put on -- no matching or coordinating or messing around.  Soft jersey knits are great for everyday, but a shirtdress is also a nice option.  I love this one from Old Navy (and not only because it's $29.50).

A-line skirt.  A skirt is a nice place to add pattern and color to your basics wardrobe.  Be daring, but choose something that will go with your other basics.  Boden always has great skirts; this one is fun and functional.

Mid-rise, dark wash jeans.  A straight leg is the most versatile and flattering, but choose a shape that works for your figure.  If you're in the market for basics, though, skip the skinny jeans or the crazy flares.  Hemline should fall to within a quarter of an inch of the floor, to wear with flats.  Gap Inc's various subsidiaries -- Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic -- have a nice selection of jeans for a nice range of sizes and shapes.

Statement bag.  If your closet is going to be loaded with basics, choose a great bag to really up the ante.  But don't break the bank -- there are fantastic bags at places like Target, for well under $50.00.  Angie & Lola tote, $49.99 at Target.

Pretty flats.  For moms -- or girls -- on the go, a great pair of flats is a must-have.  Choose a silhouette that will work with pants and skirts, to get the most mileage.

A bra that fits.  A good bra can change your whole look.  Don't skimp just because no one will ever see it.

If you work in an office or meet with clients, add:

Tailored skirt.  Pencil skirts are fantastic for work, but a great A-line skirt is also professional and practical.  Stick with more substantial fabrics, like tweeds or wool crepes; they are more structured, for a better fit, and they look more professional.

Pumps or appropriate dress shoes.  A nice kitten heel dresses up even your jeans or day dress.  

If you work at home, add:

Yoga pants that FIT PROPERLY.  For all those mornings when you can't or don't want to get dressed in real clothes.  Take a good look at the rear view before you buy, though -- being supercasual doesn't give you license to look like hell.

Athletic-inspired casual shoes.  Don't wear your pretty flats with your yoga pants, but don't wear your running shoes to run errands.  And for heaven's sake, put those flip flops away already.  Payless has cute options at affordable prices, but do NOT confuse these with workout shoes.  They're just for running errands.

I'm not the only one with a list of must-haves: Chic Story recommends multiple pairs of jeans; Second City Style tells you how to get 20% off at Martin and Osa; Modern Glam has strategies for keeping your basics from getting boring.

Susan Wagner writes about style at Fashion Find and ParentDish, and about everything else at Friday Playdate. Have a pressing style question? Email her at fridaystyle.susan@gmail.com.