Fall Fashion Is Here—Our Style Editor Shares Your Definitive Capsule Wardrobe

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I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I am SO ready for fall. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a summer girl through and through, but I’m suddenly craving the cozy comfort of my fall routine. My closet, on the other hand, could use some convincing. Not only do sweaters and coats feel less sexy than sundresses and sandals, they also demand quite a bit more real estate in my tiny closet. Enter: Your fall capsule wardrobe for 2024.

By carefully curating a collection of versatile, high-quality pieces that mix and match effortlessly, a fall capsule wardrobe keeps things remarkably simple. It allows you to maximize your style options while minimizing closet clutter, ensuring that every item earns its place. From our favorite chunky sweaters to the It bags of the season, we’ll show you how to create a wardrobe that’s as adaptable as it is trendy.

The Art of Transitional Dressing

As summer fades into fall, mastering the art of transitional dressing becomes key. Before packing your summer capsule wardrobe, consider how many pieces can serve double duty with the right styling. Those breezy button-downs and layering tees you’ve been wearing all summer? Try pairing them with cozy cardigans and dark-wash denim for a more seasonal fall look. 

Ready to dip your toes into fall fashion? Try these versatile styling tips:

The best part is that transitioning your closet for winter will be even simpler with fall capsule wardrobe pieces that incorporate both timeless elements and up-to-date trends.

Our Fall 2024 Capsule Wardrobe

This fall capsule wardrobe is all about investing in good basics, and then adding in flares of your own personal style through clever layering and strategic fabric pairings. Here’s all you need to get started:

Straight-Leg Denim

I’m currently working on a deep dive into all things fall denim, but a good pair of straight-leg jeans is the number one piece you need in your fall capsule wardrobe. Shopping for denim is a super personal experience, but I recommend finding straight-leg jeans that are slim enough to be paired with chunky knits and large jackets, but still loose enough to fit boots underneath. 

Leather Boots

Whether you lean on a pointed-toe heeled bootie or a chunky-sole Chelsea boot, everyone needs a good pair of leather boots for fall. While you can make do with one pair, if your closet allows, I’d opt for one heeled ankle boot and one flat, to-the-knee boot for super versatile wear. And trust me, all of the boots below were actually made for walking—because who has time for blisters this season? 

Lightweight Layer

From suede to khaki to quilted, a lightweight jacket is integral to your fall capsule wardrobe. Your fall jacket should be light enough when worn alone while we wait for temps to drop, but warm enough when layered with a sweater as we head into winter. Have fun with the style here, but trench coats, barn jackets, and vintage-inspired suede coats are great neutral, but still trendy options to invest in. 

Suede Bag

Suede is my favorite fall fabric, and a suede purse is the perfect way to incorporate it into my fall capsule wardrobe. Though I drool every time I see a pair of suede shoes, a suede bag feels easier to protect from the unpredictable fall weather. You can’t go wrong with any of these options to round out your fall capsule wardrobe for 2024. 

Statement Belt

Now that you have the perfect pair of jeans, it’s time to accessorize with a fun, but still timeless, statement belt. This fall, it’s all about effortless tailoring, and what better way to accentuate your waist than with one of these belts? Watch your favorite denim and white tee pairing take on a new life with this simple styling hack.

Basic Blazer

Although a basic blazer is a staple for me year-round, I consistently gravitate toward blazers every fall. I hate covering up a fabulous outfit with a not-so-fabulous coat, and a good blazer is my favorite way to stay warm while still staying styled. In fall 2024, we’ll see a shift away from oversized blazers in favor of a more tailored look, but I’ll still be wearing all of the above (and below). 

Tailored Trouser

As denim shorts are to summer, tailored trousers are to fall. A well-fitting pair of black trousers can be paired with a white t-shirt and sneakers, a sweater and loafers, a blouse and heeled booties, and look effortlessly chic all three ways. Trousers are a bit like denim shorts in that you might have to try before you buy, but once you find a pair that suits you, the fall styling possibilities are endless. 

Must-Have Sweater

It’s officially sweater weather, and selecting one to two versatile knits is key elements in your fall capsule wardrobe. The ideal sweater is triple duty: it stands alone as a stylish top, layers effortlessly over button-downs, and fits comfortably under lightweight jackets. When choosing your fall sweaters, pay close attention to the thickness—while a chunky knit is a fun, trendy statement to have in your wardrobe, it can’t be layered as easily as a thinner option. Pro tip: Always check the fabric content when shopping online to gauge itchiness. A wool blend is typically less itchy than 100% wool, and cashmere or cotton sweaters are almost always a safe bet. 

Everyday Loafers

While I tend to live in sneakers, I look to loafers for a more elevated look. This fall, a more slim, fitted loafer is gaining popularity, with bonus points for suede options. Loafers tend to get a bad rap in terms of comfort, but I’ve found that once you find the right pair, comfort isn’t even a question. However, I do love styling my loafers with a cute ankle sock to aid in the blister department. And honestly, they’re the perfect finishing touch for any fall outfit.

Knit Dress

Sometimes, you just need a one-and-done outfit, and a knit dress is the easiest wardrobe hack for fall. Accessorize it with a studded belt and a good pair of boots, and voila! You’re ready for the office, brunch, holiday parties, etc.