Huddle up, everyone. I know we’re a scrappy bunch of resourceful shoppers. You want to spend smarter, not harder—which means a fall capsule wardrobe is just what the doctor fashion editor ordered. And here’s your prescription: You’ll need a reliable, trusted sneaker, a shoulder bag, and some versatile pants, among other things.
The Fall Capsule Shopping List
- The Trench Coat: Favorite Daughter The Charles Trench Coat, $398
- The White T-Shirt: Leset Margo Tee, $78
- The Classic Jeans: Levi’s 501 Jeans, $98
- The Suede Bag: Khaite Lotus Tote, $3,600
- The Leather Boot: Frankie4 Allegra Boot, $328
- The Barn Jacket: Toteme Country Jacket, $930
- The Loafer: Prada Monolith Loafer, $1,270
- The Anytime Dress: Exquise Tobie Shirt Dress, $198
- The Leather Jacket: Helsa Oversized Moto Jacket, $648
- The Knit: Intimissimi Cashmere Ultralight Top, $59
- The Sneaker: Adidas SL 72, $100
- The Trouser: Mango Balloon-Style Pants, $89.99
- The Oxford Shirt: Sézane Max Shirt, $125
- The Coordinating Set: Reformation Ashton Two Piece, $298
- The Shoulder Bag: Gucci Giglio Tote Bag, $2,250
In case you need a refresher, the idea behind capsule wardrobes is that every piece is multipurpose; everything goes with everything. This maximizes the potential number of outfit combinations. Below, you’ll find 15 fall essentials, along with shoppable options that I’ve pre-vetted as timeless and versatile investments that will serve you this season and well beyond.
The Trench Coat
Great for sneaking candy into the movie theater, pretending to be Parisian, or living out your detective fantasy, a trench coat is a nonnegotiable for fall—and that’s a direct order.
The White T-Shirt
The white tee giveth, and the white tee taketh away. The wrong one can really screw up an outfit, what with bra lines, cheap fabric, or a sloppy fit. Fortunately, as a fashion editor, I have been through the T-shirt gauntlet, so you can really trust these recommendations.
The Classic Jeans
Let’s face it, jeans are integral to any and every type of capsule wardrobe. Where would we be without denim? The most important thing here is the fit. Don’t settle for jeans that don’t fit you well. Quality is also important, of course, because you want your jeans to last for many years to come.
The Suede Bag
Suede reigns supreme this year—I don’t make the rules! Take the opportunity to invest in a bag that isn’t black. Brave, I know, but your bag collection really should have some neutral variety.
The Leather Boot
I mean, obviously. This goes without saying, right? Breaking out my favorite fall boots is how I console myself as we say goodbye to summer. (I really do hate to see it go.) There’s nothing like a boot, and nothing can take its place, which is why it deserves a spot in your capsule.
The Barn Jacket
It’s about time for barn jackets (or chore coats) had their moment in the autumnal sun. I can’t remember how I ever got through the cool-but-not-cold months before I had one of these. It’s a casual item, for sure, but an absolute necessity as far as I’m concerned.
The Leather Jacket
Some garments have a magical effect wherein the wearer, upon getting dressed, takes on a new persona. Something washes over you. For example, when I put on a prairie skirt, I feel like I belong in a princess movie. Leather jackets are also a perfect example of this phenomenon.
The Loafer
Ah, yes, ’tis the season to pretend I work in academia. Is that even a proper usage of “academia?” (Editor’s note: It is.) The point remains: Fall is prime loafer time. Be it heeled or flat, paired with ankle socks or worn with bare feet, there’s really no wrong way to do it. The beauty of a loafer is that it wears well with everything.
The Anytime Dress
I’ve affectionately titled those frocks—the ones that can be worn for just about any outing—“anytime” dresses. Your capsule simply isn’t complete without a dress you can wear for work days, date nights, and beyond. Bonus points if it transcends seasonality. Most little black dresses fall into this category, too.
The Knit
It’s called sweater weather for a reason, folks. Transitional dressing is all about layers, and knits make for the perfect ones. Drape a cardigan over your shoulders, wear it open-faced, or button it all the way to the top to style as a shirt. There are so many ways to stay cozy while playing with your style.
The Sneaker
As someone with back problems, I can’t be frivolous with my footwear. Sneakers are a mainstay in my daily uniform. For most of us, practical shoes are just a part of life. While this might feel like style doom at first, you’d be surprised by the caliber of fall sneakers just waiting to be found.
The Trouser
I’m leaving this one open to interpretation, because a capsule trouser could be almost anything. Perhaps you already have a versatile pair of carpenter pants in your wardrobe, or a trusted brand of slacks that fit you like a glove. If it’s neutral and stylistically versatile, it works for me. If you’re looking for a trending silhouette, try out a genie pant.
The Coordinating Set
Matching sets are my favorite cheat code and a total hero for capsule wardrobes. Wear the set together or style the pieces as separates. One two-piece has triple the amount of potential outfits as a standalone purchase.
The Shoulder Bag
It’s for day-to-day life; it’s for an evening out—what can’t a good shoulder bag do? Nothing. Feel free to trend stack by opting for a suede shoulder bag, or add some variance to your collection with leather, canvas, netting, or even nylon.
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