Sometimes it's not what you wear, but how it's put together.

For our October fashion story, we selected seven basic wardrobe pieces that build the foundation for a week's worth of chic looks.

To pull off seven days of style, fashion experts suggest investing in basic timeless pieces, which will allow you to update daily looks with seasonal accessories. "It's a great way to take the most basic of wardrobes and create endless looks with minimal investment," says Amber Espanet, co-owner of Salt Lake City's Q Clothing Boutique. "Learn a few creative ways to tie a scarf, have a couple of statement jewelry pieces, add a pop of color with shoes, scarves or a handbag."

Here are seven wardrobe basics selected from Q Clothing Boutique that we assembled into seven outfits.

Ya Los Angeles burgundy shirt dress, $48

Femme by Tresics peacock blue pencil skirt, $34

Makers of True Originals skinny jean, $86

Kling wool houndstooth blazer, $136

Ya Los Angeles gray cardigan, $48

Ya Los Angeles tangerine blouse, $38

Tresics taupe long-sleeve tee, $28

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Monday: Skirt and shirt

Brighten the Monday blues in a pencil skirt in peacock blue, which along with emerald is one of the season's hottest colors. "If you're wearing solid basics, add some sparkle with a statement jewelry piece," Espanet says.

Tuesday: Jacket, pants and blouse

Tailored overcoats are an on-trend updated look for fall. Dark-wash straight-leg jeans and burlap oxfords keep this menswear-inspired wool blazer feeling fresh and modern.

Wednesday: Dress and shirt

A neutral-colored long-sleeve tee can be layered over or under most anything and adds warmth to this burgundy red shirt dress. Topping the outfit with a felt floppy hat and a rosette ribbon belt elevates the laid-back look to something distinctive.

Thursday: Jacket, pants and sweater

Be prepared for falling temperatures with layers. A scarf over a jacket, layered over a sweater, and funky fringe boots can challenge any chilly weather.

Friday: Dress and sweater

Espanet recommends solid-colored dresses as pieces that can transition from day to evening. For day, a ruffled cardigan with patterned tights can create a fun and flirty look. For evening, ditch the sweater and add some bling.

Saturday: Pants, sweater and shirt

Kick back for a casual weekend look that appears effortlessly chic. What's more comfy than a simple tee, jeans and cozy cardi? Silver chains, suede wedges and a skinny belt add finishing touches.

Sunday: Skirt and blouse

End the week looking sleek, but keep proportions in mind, says Espanet. If you're wearing an oversized blouse, pair it with a slimming pencil skirt. A complementary jeweled pendant completes the look, suitable for a Sunday morning service or afternoon brunch. —

Shop the photo shoot

This story features clothing from Q Clothing Boutique, 215 E. 300 South, Salt Lake City; 801-474-2000; www.qclothing. Co-owner Amber Espanet says the store specializes in progressive women's fashion by offering quality and affordable styles and brands unique to Utah.

Our photographs feature model Michelle Stoll and the work of makeup artist Karl Geiger and hair stylist Zara Cardenas, with art direction by Tribune freelance fashion writer Krista Nielson and photographs by Tribune photographer Francisco Kjolseth.