Over the past few years I’ve become more intentional about streamlining my wardrobe. For years I was buying trendy outfits that I would grow tired of after a season or two. And while I do enjoy playing into trends, I’m really proud of the closet of classics I’ve collected over the past couple of years. I’ve begun investing in higher quality basics that I know will last years. And what I love most about these classic pieces is that they pair well to create dozens of outfits- so while technically speaking I have fewer pieces in my closet, I have more outfit options.
So if you want to begin creating a capsule wardrobe, here are 30 essentials for the perfect fall capsule wardrobe.
Tops
- White & Black short sleeve shirts :: I love the fit of these Amazon essentials crewneck tees. I sized down and the shirts fit nicely fitted around the bust, but gives a little extra room around the belly {while still looking tailored}.
- White and/or black body suit :: Sometimes you need a truly fitted top and I love this body suit. I recommend picking it up in black and white, but if you just want to select one- I wear my black one more often.
- White & Black long sleeve shirts :: These are the long sleeve version of the short sleeve tees I mentioned previously. I sized down in these as well. I actually love them so much I bought two blacks and two whites, just to have backups.
- Stripe shirt :: I have tons of stripe shirts and wear them often. If I was just starting my stripe shirt collection, I would grab this one {more of a thick material- I have it and love it} or this one {lighter material}.
- Button up shirt :: I love how you can throw on a button up shirt and pants and instantly look polished. I love this classic button up, but I also have and love this silk version. If you’re short, I’ve found the way the silk version lays can be a bit more flattering. I’m 5’2 and still wear both.
- White, beige, camel, black, gray & stripe Sweaters :: Sweaters are my favorite thing to cuddle up in when the weather gets cool. They look chic when tied around your shoulders, layered over basic tees or on their own. I own this sweater in 5 colors and love how you can wear it with the buttons in the front or the back. I’ve also owned this sweater for a few years now {it’s currently on sale!} and last winter bought this cheaper sweater in both cream and black. But a good cashmere is always a great idea & this one is under $100 & comes in tons of colors!
- Stripe Sweater :: I love a classic black/white stripe sweater like this, but I also really love this camel/white sweater!
Bottoms
- Black Skirt :: As someone on the shorter side, I’m thrilled miniskirts are back! I love this a-line mini skirt, this wool a-line, and this tweed mini skirt.
- Black Shorts :: Long sleeve and shorts weather is my favorite, so I take every chance I get to wear this combination. I love a monochrome look and adding a belt to shorts like these for a quick errand run.
- Leather Shorts :: I adore these tailored, chic faux leather shorts. If I didn’t already have faux leather shorts, I would buy these in heartbeat!
- Leggings :: Sometimes, you just need a good pair of leggings to throw on for cozy, quick outings. I’ve had these for years and these definitely live up to the hype!
- Jeans :: These are the perfect 90s style jeans and are perfectly in trend this season, while still feeling classic.
- Black Jeans :: I love the relaxed, yet tailored look of these black jeans.
- Black/Camel Trousers :: I love how trousers are in style right now. They instantly elevate an outfit and the oversized trend makes them extremely comfortable. I really like this cut and would pick them up in black and camel if I didn’t already own a few pairs!
- Leather Pants :: Last winter I bought these pants and they are so cozy (I sized down). But I came across these and love that you can add a belt to them.
Dresses
- Slip Dress :: Slip dresses are a perfect go-to year round. This one is absolutely stunning on and this one is more affordable and still really flattering.
- Sweater Dress :: Sweater dresses are an easy grab and go in the cooler weather. I love how you can dress them up with boots or heals or dress them down with sneakers. This long sweater dress is really pretty and this short sweater dress looks incredibly comfortable!
Outterwear/Coats
- Black Blazer :: I bought my first quality black blazer in 2009 and it is still a staple in my closet. Find a classic cut with good detailing and it will last you a lifetime! I love this one and this one!
- Camel Blazer :: I bought this blazer 3 years ago and it is still super chic. The material is divine and the cut is pure perfection. It’s worth it to invest in a good blazer. I love the cut so much, I want to buy it in black and navy too if/when they come back in stock.
- Plaid or houndstooth Blazer :: A plaid or houndstooth blazer feels quintessentially fall- especially in brown hues like this plaid one or this houndstooth one. But I also love this black and white version.
- Leather Jacket :: I’ve worn the same leather jacket for literally 12 years, which goes to show when you invest in a quality piece it will last. But it might be time for me to upgrade to a new leather jacket like this one or this one.
- Trench :: This trench gets slightly updated each season, but the classic cut remains the same. I have it and LOVE the thick material. It adds the perfect amount of warmth.
- Coat :: This wool coat is the perfect go-to. I love it in camel and black!
Shoes
- Sneakers :: I have these shoes and these shoes and adore them both! I’ve easily walked 20k steps in a day in them with no issues!
- Ballet flats :: Ballet flats have been a go to of mine for long adventures around NYC. These are expensive, but will last for ever. These are under $200, but also incredibly comfortable! These are ballet flat adjacent and I’ve worn these all over the city.
- Loafers :: Loafers have been a classic in my closet for years, so I love that they are having a moment. I love these slightly chunky loafers and have these classic loafers.
- Booties :: I love a basic boot with a little heel and these black ones are perfect. I also believes these are the most beautiful brown boots if you’re wanting to buy an investment pair. I just ordered these more casual brown boots and am so excited for them to arrive any day! I’ve owned 5+ boots from this brand and always love them!
- Chelsea boots :: Chelsea boots are some of my go-to shoes in the fall. They are so simple, yet chic. I also just ordered these and they come in multiple colors.
- Tall Boots :: I love how a good pair of boots can change an entire outfit. These have the slightest nod to the cowboy trend, which I appreciate since I like following trends, but prefer investing in classics. And these have the perfect little heel for everyday wear.
- Rain boots :: These are a classic, but I also love these and these for under $25.
These are absolutely great picks. You really can’t go wrong with a capsule wardrobe, especially when it’s as classy as this one.
I am ready to change and transition my wardrobe. I may not have all these yet but I have most of them. Dresses and boots are still my favorite fall fashion.
I think I really need to do a transition with my wardrobe. I really love those boots!
awesome picks, I will pass them to my partner because I think she would find them interesting. Thank you for sharing!
Fall is definitely happening here and I love pulling out my comfy sweaters. Need some new boots this year and I love the ones you chose!
There are definitely some very intriguing ideas listed here. I will definitely grab a few.
I love sweater dresses and Chelsea boots. I wear them all through the winter.
love those ballet shoes and sneakers. They are my comfy partners