Everything You Need for the Ultimate Fall Capsule Wardrobe
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There are lots of benefits to a fall capsule wardrobe—more closet space, less time spent crafting outfits in the morning and a higher percentage of your shopping budget to put toward each piece, to name a few. But even if you consider yourself more of a maximalist, building a core base of separates that can easily mix and match with one another can make it easier in the long run to start incorporating bolder patterns, brighter colors or otherwise trendier items. So, to start us all off on the chicest foot possible this season and build off our summer capsule wardrobe, I’ve put together a list of the 11 items you need in order to build the ultimate fall capsule wardrobe.
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But First, What Is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a pared-down list of clothing, shoes and accessories that can be easily mixed and matched with one another to create simple, chic ensembles with less effort. Most have a neutral color palette featuring shades of beige, white, black, navy and gray, but that doesn’t mean you have to limit yourself to just those hues. If you’d rather mix and match warm tones like yellows, oranges and reds, I say go for it. So long as there are no outstanding pieces that require an additional accessory or clothing items that can’t be worn with everything else, you’ve got yourself a capsule wardrobe.
How Do I Choose What to Include in My Fall Capsule Wardrobe?
Think about the pieces you wear most often and that work best for the greatest number of scenarios. For instance, jeans can work for pretty much any daily occasion, from working in an office to dinner dates to weekend errand running. Then again, maybe you’re more of a skirt person. Pick out the items from your closet that you already wear on the regular, then start to ID where there might be any gaps. Do you often wish you had a different pair of sneakers to mix in with your wardrobe? Or maybe a different fall jacket? Combine that with your day-to-day needs and voilà!
How to Create a Fall Capsule Wardrobe
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1. An Oversize Blazer
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
A great blazer can pull double duty as workwear or a chic jacket off the clock. The best versions have a slightly oversize fit (better for layering), but it’s entirely up to you whether you prefer a solid camel brown or a classic autumnal plaid. A blazer works beautifully atop a sweater, simple short-sleeve tee or bodysuit or a dress, making it versatile and sleek pick for everyday wear.
Shop Oversize Blazers
Everlane Oversize Blazer
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Open Edit Relaxed Fit Blazer
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Wilfred New Generation Blazer
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2. Straight-Leg Jeans
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
Jeans trends come and go, but that doesn’t mean you have to buy a new pair every time there’s a hot new style. I suggest sticking to a timeless silhouette like straight-leg jeans that will look chic whether the current go-to style is low-rise and baggy or high-rise and ultra-skinny. Straight-leg jeans are classic and clean looking. (I’d suggest a middle-of-the-road wash that isn’t too dark or too light.)
Shop Straight-Leg Jeans
Madewell ’90s Straight Jeans
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Abercrombie & Fitch Ankle Straight Jean
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90
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Warp + Weft ASE Straight Jeans
https://warpweftworld.com/collections/womens-straight-00-24/products/ase-plus-straight-everafter
98
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3. Basic Tees
Christian Vierig/Getty Images
Basic tees are key to a capsule wardrobe, no matter the season. But when it comes to colder months, they’re a staple for layering. Worn under jackets, wraps, sweaters or cardigans, a simple fitted T-shirt or tank top is a must-have. Grab this in a bodysuit style, long-sleeve silhouette, cropped or uncropped—whatever is most comfortable and most suited to your style and wardrobe. Go for a nice material that is thick (or even double-layered) to ensure it will last and not look see-through or ratty after a wash or two.
Shop Basic Tees
Lands’ End Supima Cotton T-Shirt
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Old Navy Vintage T-Shirt
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17
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Reformation Classic Crew Tee
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4. A Black Handbag
David Dee Delgado/Getty Images
For days when you need to fit more than just the basics, a large, sleek handbag is the way to go. Natural materials like real leather, suede, cotton or wool will wear better over time than synthetics (and have the added benefit of usually being more eco-friendly), meaning you can splurge a bit and know you won’t have to pony up again any time soon.
Shop Black Handbags
Madewell The Transport Bucket Bag
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Mango Faux Leather Shoulder Bag
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50
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Cuyana Double Loop Bag
https://cuyana.64ud.net/c/408233/651670/10312?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcuyana.com%2Fproducts%2Fdouble-loop-bag%3Fvariant%3D44388544610619&subId1=fall-capsule-wardrobe
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5. A Trench Coat
Streetstyleshooters/Getty Images
Whether you get one that is a little heavier to get you through fall and winter, or a lightweight style best suited for autumn, a trench coat is an essential that won’t go out of style. Opt for a wool or water-resistant topper to stay protected from unpredictable weather. The classic look of these coats will be in style basically forever, so this would be a great time to invest in one you love that will last for years to come.
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J.Crew New Icon trench
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250 and up
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Favorite Dughter Charles Trench Coat
https://howl.me/cmQwq5azyKl
398
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Everlane Cotton Modern Trench Coat
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6. White Sneakers
Streetstyleshooters/Getty Images
When it comes to easy, everyday footwear, there are plenty of cute styles to choose from—ballet flats, loafers, Mary Janes—but one style that will always be en vogue is the classic white lace-up sneaker. The best pairs to invest in are easy to clean, either in the washing machine or with a leather wipe, so they remain as crisp as the day you bought them. White sneakers can be dressed up or down, making them one of the most versatile pieces you’ll have in your closet.
Shop White Sneakers
Cariuma Off-White Canvas Sneakers
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85
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Nike Blazer Low Platform Sneakers
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Vionic Winny Sneakers
https://howl.me/cmQwu6DfQrj
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7. A Midi Sweater Dress
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
Easily layerable, a midi dress that accentuates your shape is a must-have for your fall wardrobe. A simple pattern that’s a sweater material or a simple cotton will be a great option to wear under blazers, jackets, sweaters and with shoes that run the gamut from short boots to sneakers.
Shop Midi Sweater Dresses
Quince Cotton Cashmere Midi Dress
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Reformation Evan Cashmere Sweater Dress
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Nordstrom Wool Cashmere Sweater Dress
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229
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8. Black Leggings
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
An easy weekend option, black leggings are much easier to tuck into tall boots than jeans or trousers and are infinitely comfier if you’re traveling or running all over town. And while a matte black style is most versatile, faux-leather leggings can also be super chic and go with pretty much everything. Do note, though, that leggings are something you’ll want to invest in, because a poor quality pair can deteriorate very quickly, especially if you wear them frequently.
Shop Black Leggings
Spanx Faux Leather Leggings
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Pari Passu Goldie Leggings
https://paripassushop.com/products/goldie-leggings?
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lululemon Align Pants
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9. Black Ankle Boots
Christian Vierig/Getty Images
Ah, the low black boot. This casual shoe will never go out of style and, as an added bonus, it ranges in design so you aren’t beholden to one specific type of bootie. Try to look for a weather-resistant pair, like these Miller boots, so you don’t have to worry about wearing them out in rain, sleet or even snow, and perhaps a dressier pair with a heel for fancier looks.
Shop Black Ankle Boots
Nordstrom Miah Chelsea Lug Boots
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100
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Journee Collection Haylinn Boot
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65
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Franco Sarto Gracelyn Zip Boots
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170
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10. A Cashmere Scarf
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
There’s no accessory better than a soft, cozy scarf to complete a warm fall outfit. The luxe look of this cool-weather staple is as functional as it is chic. I love the idea of getting an oversize number that can be used both as a scarf and a big wrap.
Shop Cashmere Scarves
Gobi Cashmere Fringed Scarf
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90
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Wilfred Wool Narrow Blanket Scarf
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Nordstrom Cashmere Scarf
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11. Loafers
Christian Vierig/Getty Images
Loafers are a great in-between option between boots and sneakers for a sleek fall shoe that pairs well with tons of outfits. Just be aware that some folks find that loafers can be uncomfortable on the heels, so look specifically for a pair from a brand that’s known for its comfort level.
Shop Loafers
Marc Fisher Ilithia Loafers
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Cole Haan Lux Pinch Penny Loafers
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Madewell The Vernon Loafers
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