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I was recently on the phone with our Design Editor, Kristen, who said she’s entering her “girly girl era.” Immediately, I wanted to use the same words—and it turns out I’m not alone. The resurgence of the sweatpants epidemic and aughts-centric styles has created a new push towards quiet comfort. We want more from our clothes, and because of that, we prioritize and invest in pieces that will look good for years to come. Luckily, the best fall staples do just that, allowing you to curate a fall wardrobe you’ll love wearing from now until spring.
I have experienced a lot of light over the years. And while some of that is a result of disposable income since graduating college, I can attribute it mostly to purpose. These days, I choose to keep my closet organized into pieces that match the three words that define my personal style: elegance, femininity, and understated. By refining my style goals to what makes me feel most myself, it’s easy to reject what doesn’t fit me.
How to Adjust Your Personal Style
My Pinterest style board has become my go-to source of inspiration for these sartorial shifts. I’ve made it a monthly habit to sift through and delete images that no longer spark joy, while eagerly importing new looks from my Instagram archive.
This consistent routine has not only helped me define and transform my personal aesthetic but also organize my shopping list. The process is simple: collect your favorite inspirational photos, highlight a fun playlist, and see how many looks you can recreate with your current fall wardrobe. Trust me, this is where the best fall foundations shine!
The Best Fall Basics To Wear This Season
Go through this process once, and you’ll quickly realize that you need to track down the right sweater, jacket, or boots to take your wardrobe to the next level. This way, I’ve transformed my closet from an uninspired collage of trends to a collection full of the best fall basics and neutral colors that I can endlessly mix and match.
But know this: The perfect wardrobe doesn’t have to be a rigid capsule wardrobe. However, it should resist trends and reflect who you are. With that in mind, keep scrolling for the best fall basics and fall essentials.
Outerwear
Outerwear can always be tricky during this time of change. Some days, you may wake up needing your heaviest coat, while others you can get by without this outfit topper. I’m loving this year’s jacket—a classic piece perfect for these not-so-hot, not-so-cold months. In a neutral color, it will layer just as easily over a t-shirt and jeans as over any other fall outfit. Pretend you’re in the British countryside and your wardrobe will take care of the rest.
Of course, all timeless hats also need a good leather jacket. And while most real-deal options will set you back hundreds of dollars in price, there are plenty of affordable options that look even better. No matter what type of outerwear you choose, consider these pieces your ticket to a cool girl this fall.
Clothes
Blankets last forever, but we love the simple, structured comfort of a slip blanket. To wear mine year-round, I simply use different styling tricks that keep me warm and seasonally appropriate. In the summer, I’ll pair mine with sandals, and in the fall, I like to layer with tights, a cozy sweater, lug sole boots, and a scarf to top it off. And this season’s trending chocolate brown? Chef’s (stylist’s) kiss.
A-line dresses are also perfect for fall—they feature the timeless tailoring and universally flattering shape that so many of us are loving right now. Perfect for work, lunch, or a night of wine by the fire, these pieces will easily become your go-to. The A-line cut is the perfect mix of flattering and fitting while being incredibly comfortable. Throw on a pair of statement earrings and you’re good to go—this is a one-and-done kind of outfit.
Finally, the entire pièce de resistance of fall: the sweater dress. It’s comfortable, flattering and forgiving, and keeps you warm without looking like you’re packing every last layer in your wardrobe. Not only do sweater dresses make you look put together, but they take all the effort out of planning an outfit. I like to pair mine with knee high boots for a casual, yet chic look for the season.
At the top
The top can be tricky during the season when we all gravitate towards sweaters. But! They also make my favorite fall season (layering) seamless and beautiful. I love the denim button down that works as a top in the Canadian tuxedo dress formula. Or, try one in fall-appropriate plaid with fun details to add visual interest.
I also appreciate asymmetrical tops that flatter the whole body because of the diagonal lines that draw the eye in a way that creates a lighter silhouette. Go even bolder with a one-shoulder top—perfect for date night or dinner.
Sweaters
When the temperatures start to dip, I start to crave knitwear. But even in the most beautiful season of the year, I like to keep my look organized. Cardigans, crewnecks, and my favorite—turtlenecks—abound this time of year. Thankfully, many brands offer styles at a variety of prices, making even the best sweaters affordable. The options I’ve shared below each boast five-star reviews and won’t last (just remember to follow baby care instructions).
I can imagine living in these sweaters for a full monochromatic look, head to toe. This style trick creates an outfit that’s comfortable while feeling good, and can look cozy, classy, ​​or sexy depending on your style. (Bonus: You’ll reach for it whenever you need an extra layer of comfort when working from home.)
Below
Especially this year, with barrel-leg pants and denim making waves, it’s clear that trends come and go. However, one shape that stays in my closet forever is the high-waisted, wide-leg pants. I find that they’re flattering even on my petite frame (re: they don’t squish me) and they pair well with any sweater or top—although I like to go a little more balanced for the look. Depending on the material, they always look chic and easy to wear for a night out or a casual look with sneakers and a tee. Trust me: choose one of the pairs below and you’re guaranteed to get compliments all the time.
Shoes
I only buy shoes once a season, so I want to know that I’m investing in the right way. I recently purchased Madewell’s Greta Ballet Flat in red and I’m obsessed with how the shoe adds a pop of color to my fall outfits that tend to fall flat. Likewise, my knee-high boots are the go-to for almost everything I wear this season. They look great paired with a short plaid skirt and sweater or cottagecore-chic with my long, prairie-esque dresses.
For any shoe style, stocking up on fall classics will guide you to a pair that will last forever. With timelessness as your goal, you’ll be led to shoes that pair well with any style or aesthetic.
Accessories
Accessories are especially fun in the fall, and the cold weather allows you to pile on scarves and hats with careless, sad abandon. Suede is the hottest trend this season, and I love how it can appear on a bag, belt, or any detail to make your outfit shine. But if you buy one accessory this season, make it classic hoops. I still love the silver way, and everything from Heavenly Mayhem will be an instant heirloom. They will elevate any outfit you wear this season.