Fashion
Fall Essentials: The Perfect Wardrobe Staples Under $200
As temperatures begin to drop and we shift from summer dresses and sandals to cozy sweaters and a great pair of boots, you might find yourself assessing what’s in your closet. Fall fashion is all about layering, comfort, and embracing seasonal styles while being mindful of the pieces we purchase lasting. And a great fall outfit can be simple and chic – it’s just about having the right layering pieces. Whether you’re looking to revamp your wardrobe or just need a few new fall wardrobe essentials to fill in some gaps, this guide to fall essentials will help you figure out the key pieces you should have in your closet.
Fall Essentials: The Perfect Wardrobe Staples Under $200
As the mornings started to get cooler, I found myself looking through my closet to see what layers I was missing. And for me, it was really the tees, light layers, and a great pair of wide-leg denim. So I did a little shopping, and now have the layers I need for this new season. If you’re not sure about your personal style, go with the basics. Fall clothing doesn’t have to be complicated – you can build great outfits with white t-shirts and denim.
In 2024, fall fashion is all about balancing comfort with style. From cozy knits and structured blazers to bold outerwear and loafers, it’s key to invest in versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched. With these essentials in your wardrobe, you’ll be ready to take on the season in style, no matter what the weather brings. So, embrace the cozy vibes, play with textures and colors, and feel good in what you wear this season.
Please note that I am not suggesting that you buy everything in this post. I just wanted to put together a list of some great basics that I know I’ll be wearing on repeat this season. Versatility is key, which is why I choose classic pieces in neutral colors, so they can be mixed and matched with other pieces I own to create various looks. Here are the types of pieces to consider having in your closet each fall.
Trench Coat
A trench is a great staple piece for every fall capsule wardrobe. It’s perfect for cooler temperatures before winter weather kicks in, and always feel polished.
A Great Jacket
Think of the type of jacket you’ll wear most, and invest in that. A utility jacket is great for a casual look, and a blazer can be dressed up or down. Oversized blazers create a relaxed yet refined silhouette that can be worn layered over sweaters or simple tees. A structured blazer in neutral colors such as grey, camel, or black will serve as a timeless piece in your fall wardrobe.
Lady Jacket
You could go through fall without a lady jacket, but I’m not sure you’d want to. Wear it open or on its own – these structured sweater jackets are so chic and perfect for any fall wardrobe.
Cozy Sweaters
Nothing says fall like a cozy knit sweater. Whether oversized, fitted, or cropped, knit sweaters are perfect for layering and transitioning from chilly mornings to warmer afternoons.
Sweater weather is coming and living in Chicago where it’s cold half the year, I have quite the collection. Sweaters are great for an extra layer of warmth, and when it’s cool enough to shed a layer, you can drape it over your shoulders. You’ll probably want more than one sweater, but there’s so much you can do with a great sweater. Pair it with denim or a midi skirt, or over fall dresses.
Cardigan
Cardigans are the ultimate transitional piece for fall, offering the perfect combination of warmth and comfort. In 2024, oversized, chunky cardigans are particularly trendy, offering a relaxed, laid-back look that’s perfect for layering. Neutral shades like beige, cream, and grey are timeless options, deep reds and greens embrace a fall palette. For versatility, opt for a neutral-toned cardigan that can be thrown over anything, from T-shirts to dresses. Ok, I’d actually invest in 2 cardigans – one solid and one stripe.
Layering Pieces
As I mentioned, this is where I was lacking after being postpartum last fall and pregnant the year before that. Layering is key to fall fashion, and having the right basics is essential. Stock your wardrobe with simple, long-sleeve tops, turtlenecks, and fitted T-shirts in neutral colors. These pieces are perfect for layering under sweaters, blazers, or even dresses, adding warmth without bulk.
Button-Up Shirts
A great button-up is essential and is the perfect layering piece for fall. These versatile pieces are great with jeans, or layered under a sweater or sweater vest. White button-up shirts are an essential, and a chambray or stripe is always fun, too.
Sweater Vest
A sweater vest is a great addition to any fall wardrobe. Wear it on its own under a jacket, or over a long sleeve button-up. A cashmere vest is a great option for those of you who love cashmere but get too hot in cashmere sweaters.
Ecru Denim
I don’t buy into the fashion rule of not wearing white jeans after Labor Day, but really do prefer ecru denim come fall. It feels a bit warmer, and looks great with all of my fall neutrals.
Wide-leg jeans
Say goodbye to the skinny jeans which, if I’m being honest, I had the hardest time getting behind them in the first place and won’t miss them. Wide-leg trousers are dominating fall fashion in 2024 and I love them. These pants provide both comfort and style, making them perfect for everything from office attire to casual weekend outings. They’re stylish without feeling too trendy, and are a classic piece that is now back in style, and hopefully not going anywhere.
Straight Leg Denim
Straight-leg denim is a must-have for fall 2024. It offers a timeless silhouette that’s both versatile and flattering, and this style is great for transitioning between casual and dressier outfits. Unlike skinny jeans, straight-leg jeans provide a relaxed fit through the legs, which I find a lot more flattering. Pair them with ankle boots and a chunky sweater for an effortless fall vibe, or dress them up with a blazer and heels for date night.
A Midi or Maxi Skirt
Midi and maxi skirts are an excellent option for fall, providing coverage and warmth while still being lightweight enough for those warmer afternoons. Satin and silk skirts are particularly on trend in 2024. Whether you opt for a solid pleated skirt or a floral print, skirts offer a silhouette that contrasts beautifully with more structured pieces like blazers or leather jackets.
Loafers
Loafers are a perfect footwear choice for fall. Sure, you could choose something with a chunky sole, and those are fun, but I love the classics, too. Pair them with everything from tailored trousers to jeans or midi skirts. Whether you choose classic black, brown, or opt for something a bit more fun, loafers are classic, comfortable, and look great with almost everything.
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are a favorite, and I am really into Mary Jane flats this year. Sure, they’re trendy, but as I mentioned in my fall shoe edit, they are a classic style, so they don’t feel risky.
Sneakers
A great pair of sneakers will take you very far – from athleisure to denim, the right (stylish) sneaker will work with everything. You can take almost any look and make it look both sporty and casual, whether you’re running errands or meeting a friend for lunch. You can’t go wrong with a classic white sneaker, but if you want something a little more on-trend, consider a retro style.
Boots
Suede or leather boots are a fall staple and look great with fall dresses and the right jeans.
Accessories
Accessories can make or break a fall outfit, and this year’s trends are all about staying cozy and stylish at the same time. Oversized scarves are both practical and on-trend for 2024. Scarves not only add warmth but also a layer of texture and color to any outfit. Hats are another great accessory – a cute baseball cap adds an additional layer and some style to a cute and casual outfit.
Suede Bag
A great fall handbag in 2024 combines style, functionality, and rich tones. Structured leather totes are a standout this season, but I am really loving suede in deep shades like chocolate brown, olive, and even burgundy.
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