If you’ve been a part of this community for awhile, then you know that I firmly believe that your time, money, and energy are your greatest assets in life. And, because of this, I subscribe to the concept of a capsule wardrobe.
Investing in a strategic collection of versatile pieces makes doing laundry faster, putting away clothes easier, and coming up with outfit ideas virtually effortless. It makes shopping less stressful, too, as it creates parameters surrounding the colors, prints, and types of pieces worthy of your attention.
All of this is super important to me, especially as a working mom.
Creating a capsule collection has freed up my resources for the people and passions that matter most to me. As an added bonus, it’s also helped me to look more put together than I feel most days, haha.
As I discuss in my popular capsule wardrobe tutorial (How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe in 6 Easy Steps), the perfect capsule wardrobe is built intentionally over time.
To keep from overwhelming yourself – and your bank account – it’s best to build for the season ahead, adding what you can when you’re able.
So for those who are are planning for the coming fall season, I wanted to share a shoppable list of fall capsule wardrobe essentials available to you right now.
These are classic fall capsule wardrobe pieces that you’ll be able to use and love on repeat.
Scroll down to see and shop these classic pieces and more!
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2022 Fall Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
Trench Coat
A trench coat is the holy grail of staple pieces, with origins dating back to the 1820s (source). The classic style can be used as workwear, but I’ve seen it styled with everything from workout clothes to jeans and a hoodie.
Trench coats are great for fall since they’re more lightweight than say a wool top coat (I’d include that in a winter capsule wardrobe, personally). But it truly does depend on where you live.
Anyways, I created an entire Pinterest board called Trench Coat Style to give you some trench coat outfit ideas, so be sure to follow it! I’ll continue to add inspiration as I find it.
Cardigan
Cardigans are another one of those key pieces for fall, and what I love about them is that there are so many styles. From oversized cardigans to the newer “coatigan” concept, there’s something to suit your life and personal style.
If you’re trying to stick to just one cardigan in your closet, be sure to consider where and/or when you’d wear it most often and cater to that need.
Personally, I have a few different cardigan styles and colors because, since I live in Ohio, they are one of the key items in my wardrobe. I wear them a lot from fall through spring, and even on those cool summer nights.
PS: If you’re petite like me and unsure as to whether or not you can “pull off” an oversized cardigan, read this post: Can Petites Wear Oversized Cardigans? Yup! Here’s How! It should help. 🙂
Leather Jacket
If a leather jacket feels too edgy for you, I get it. But I will say that they sure do make those simple jeans and t-shirt outfits look extra chic, so if you’re hesitant at least try one on. It might surprise you!
I have a faux leather moto jacket I’ve been using for at least 7 years now, but the new leather blazer jackets that are on the market are equally cute and functional, too.
Long Sleeve Basic Tees
A simple long-sleeve top can be styled alone on warmer days or layered with other pieces (think cardigans, blazers, trench coats, wool coats, etc.) for extra warmth.
I recommend getting a few in a variety of neutral tones.
If you need more details on exactly what to buy for your capsule wardrobe, check out my capsule wardrobe tutorial. I go into much more detail there!
White T-Shirt
If you run hot, having a white t-shirt (and a few other neutral colors, too) would be worthwhile in the fall. You can use these as a layering piece under those heavier, hotter layers. And, depending on where you live, you could probably wear it alone, too.
Sweater Dress
When I worked in corporate, sweater dresses were a fall wardrobe essential for me. Although I wear them less now, I still love them.
I appreciate that sweater dresses are “one and done”. You literally throw one on, grab a pair of shoes, and go. Plus, they keep you warm in the cooler weather, especially if you layer with leggings!
The Perfect Pair of Jeans
The perfect pair of jeans is a pair that suits your body type and makes you feel confident. Whether that’s a pair of skinny jeans, girlfriend jeans, straight leg jeans, relaxed fit jeans, high-waisted pants, or other – buy whatever you feel GREAT in.
I know a lot of people spend hundreds of dollars on a single pair of jeans, and I get why, but trust me when I say that you can find great quality jeans for well under $100. So if you don’t have hundreds to spend, don’t sweat it.
Instead, check out stores like Abercrombie, Old Navy, Gap, and even Nordstrom Rack for good deals on really nice jeans.
PS: I own all 3 of the Gap styles linked above and I love them!
Knit Sweaters
I look forward to the fall months, not because I love the cooler weather, but because I love wearing sweaters.
I highly recommend starting with knits in a neutral color palette for your own fall capsule wardrobe. If you want to add some colors or prints, be sure to read my capsule wardrobe tutorial for instruction on how to do so.
Classic Turtlenecks
Like long sleeve t-shirts, turtlenecks are a nice, versatile layer during the cooler months. They look cute under everything from crewneck sweatshirts to blazers.
Faux Leather Leggings
You can create so many different outfits with a nice pair of faux leather leggings – from a casual errands look to a fancier date night look.
I wear faux leather leggings on repeat throughout the fall and winter, so be sure to follow me on Instagram to see how I style them! I love sharing stuff like that on Reels and Stories.
Black Jeans
Dark wash jeans are great for those occasions where you want to feel dressier, but not necessarily get dressier if you know what I mean. They just up-level a super causal look, so snagging a pair of black jeans (or even gray jeans) in a style you feel awesome in is a great investment.
Knee-High Boots
Knee-high boots, especially in a neutral tone, are a great staple that can be dressed up or down. You can style them so many different ways – with jeans, leggings, dresses, or even shorts layered over tights.
I recommend investing in a pair that matches the majority of your wardrobe to start. But I do like having both a tan pair and a black pair in my closet to shake up my outfits a little bit throughout the fall and winter.
Graphic T-Shirt
Graphic tees, like band tees, are surprisingly great for everyday wear. They’re more fun and interesting than a plain t-shirt, but equally as versatile as they can be styled with jeans, biker shorts, denim skirts, midi skirts, and even over dresses!
Shoulder Bag
A casual, everyday shoulder bag (like a tote bag or hobo bag) is a fall fashion must. Especially if you live in an unpredictable climate! Use this to carry essentials, like a small umbrella or extra layer, so you’re always prepared.
For mid-range bags that look luxe and are great quality, check out Coach and Rebecca Minkoff. Those are two brands I’ve been able to rely on over the years!
Blazer
An oversized blazer, tweed blazer, whatever blazer blazer style suits you. But a blazer in a classic color and/or print is one of those timeless pieces you’ll reach for over and over again – not just for work, but also for date night or happy hour.
Ankle Boots
If you want to keep your pairs of shoes limited, get a pair of ankle boots in a tan color. They’ll go with a great majority of what you own, trust me!
Tan ankle boots are great transitional pieces, too, as you can wear them well into spring.
Again, getting a second pair of ankle boots in a color that coordinates with your closet is a great idea. They’ll only add to the versatility of your wardrobe.
Casual Sneakers
There are so many different styles of casual sneakers, so you’ll want to find a pair that vibes with your fall capsule wardrobe style.
If you’re not sure what to get, I recommend a super simple, plain white sneaker like the Poppy Sneaker by Sam Edelman. I have them, as does my mom. And they’re actually one of my best selling Instagram recommendations ever. They’re SO comfortable, and they’re also easy to wipe clean.
A Pair of Trousers
A pair of trousers are great to have on hand. You never know when you’re going to need them!
I personally hate clothes that are super stiff, so I’d recommend snagging a pair from a store that sells athleisurewear – like Athleta. Everything they design is for comfort and style, so they always have great comfy pants options.
Crewneck Sweatshirt or Hoodie
Crewneck sweatshirts and hoodies are definitely fall staple items, so they’re great additions to your fall capsule wardrobe.
I’m a big fan of the Athleta Coaster Luxe Sweatshirt. It’s SO soft, and it’s warm despite being lightweight.
Fabletics has really nights sweats, too. They wash well, and if you’re a member you get a solid discount.
Joggers
Last, but not least, we have a comfy pair of joggers.
I’d opt for something that coordinates with the crewneck sweatshirt so you have a cute jogging outfit option. But you can style your joggers with other fall capsule wardrobe pieces, too… think long sleeve tees, graphic tees, even a a turtleneck!
I hope this list of essential pieces helps you build a fall wardrobe that you’ll use, love, and feel incredible in.
Personally, I wouldn’t worry about limiting the number of clothes in your fall wardrobe. Some of us stay home, some of us work in an office, and some of us work from home. So I think it’s hard to put a number on it when we all have such different needs.
Instead, focus on buying items that can be mixed and matched and that will last! I promise, you will still save money and closet space in the long run. You’ll save brain space, too. 😉
Anyways, as you create your ultimate capsule wardrobe, please share your outfits on Instagram and tag me (@itsmemeach). I want to see what you create!!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading.
Do your best today!
Xo,
