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I recently got on the phone with design editor Kristen, and she claimed we’re entering a “fancy girl era.” Immediately I wanted to adopt the same idea. It’s clear I’m not alone. The pandemic’s resurgence of sweatpants and women-centric trends has created a new movement toward quiet luxury. We want more value from our clothes, so we prioritize and invest in things that will look great for years to come. Luckily, the best fall basics do just that, allowing you to curate a fall wardrobe you’ll want to wear from now until spring.
I’ve experienced quite a bit of shine over the years. Some of that is a result of having a little more disposable income since graduating from college, but I think it’s mostly due to intention. These days, I try to keep my closet organized to match three words that describe my personal style: elegant, feminine, and understated. By narrowing down your style goals to what you feel most comfortable with, it becomes easier to say no to things that don’t fit.
How to curate your style
My Pinterest style boards have become my go-to source of inspiration for these outfit changes. I have made it a monthly ritual to cull and delete images that no longer spark joy, while diligently importing fresh images from those saved on Instagram.
This consistent habit has not only helped me define and evolve my personal aesthetic, but also streamlined my shopping list. The process is simple. Gather your favorite inspiration images, create a fun playlist, and see how many looks you can recreate with your current fall wardrobe. Trust me, that’s where the best fall basics shine.
The perfect fall basics to wear this season
Once you go through this process, you’ll quickly realize that you need to find the perfect sweater, jacket, or boots to take your wardrobe to the next level. This method transformed my closet from a collage of uninspired trends to a collection full of fall’s best basics and neutral colors that can be combined endlessly.
However, know this. The perfect closet doesn’t have to be a rock-solid capsule wardrobe. However, it should stand up to trends and reflect who you are. With that in mind, keep scrolling for the best fall basics and fall essentials.
outer
Outerwear always requires a little extra care during these seasonal changes. Some days I wake up in the morning and need my thickest coat, and other days I can go without this layer of clothing. I love this year’s focus on barn jackets. A classic item perfect for this season when it’s neither too hot nor too cold. The neutral color makes it easy to layer over T-shirts and jeans, just like any other fall outfit. Assuming you’re in the English countryside, your wardrobe will take care of the rest.
Of course, a timeless wardrobe also requires a quality leather jacket. While many authentic items can be purchased for hundreds, there are many better-looking and affordable options. Whatever your outerwear choice, consider these items as your cool-girl ticket to fall.
dress
Nap dresses are timeless, but we love the simple, streamlined ease of slip dresses. I employ a variety of styling strategies to keep it seasonally appropriate and warm for year-round wear. In the summer, I pair it with sandals, but in the fall, I like to layer it with tights, a cozy sweater, lug-soled boots, and a scarf. And chocolate brown, which is trending this season? Chef (stylist)’s kiss.
A-line dresses are perfect for fall and reflect the timeless tailoring and universally flattering shapes that so many of us are loving right now. Perfect for work, lunch, or a wine night by the fire, these items will easily become your go-to. The A-line cut is the ideal combination of aesthetics and fit, while being incredibly comfortable. Add some statement earrings and you’re ready to go. This is the kind of outfit that can be completed in one go.
Last but not least is a sweater dress, which is a staple item every fall. She’s comfortable, flattering and forgiving, and will keep you warm without looking like you’re wearing every last piece in your closet. Not only will a sweater dress automatically make you look put together, but it will also save you the hassle of planning your outfit. I love pairing mine with knee high heel boots for a casual yet chic seasonal look.
tops
In a season when everyone is drawn to sweaters, tops can be tricky. but! It also makes my favorite fall pastime (layering) so seamless and chic. I love a denim button-down that acts as a topper for a foolproof Canadian tuxedo outfit. Or try something with fall-appropriate plaid and fun details to add visual interest.
We also enjoy asymmetrical tops, which create a more streamlined silhouette and flatter every body thanks to their eye-catching diagonal lines. Make it even bolder by pairing it with a one-shoulder top. Perfect for a date or eating out.
sweater
As the temperature starts to drop, you’ll want thicker knits. But even during the most pleasant season of the year, I like to look clean. This time of year, there are a lot of cardigans, crewnecks, and my favorite, turtlenecks. Thankfully, many brands offer styles at a variety of price points, making even the most luxurious sweaters within reach. Each of the options we’ve shared below boasts 5-star reviews and won’t pill (just be sure to follow our T-shirt care instructions).
I imagine being comfortable in a completely monochrome sweater from head to toe. This styling trick allows you to keep your outfit chic yet relaxed, and depending on how you style it, it can look cozy, classy, or sexy. (Bonus: You’ll always have it when you need extra comfort while working from home.)
bottoms
Barrel leg pants and denim are especially popular this year, and it’s clear that trends will come and go. But one shape that will forever be in my closet is the high-waisted, wide-leg pant. It’s perfect for my petite frame (again: not constricting) and pairs beautifully with any sweater or top. However, I choose one that is a little more fitted considering visual balance. Depending on the material, they always look chic and can be easily dressed up for a night out or a casual look with sneakers and a T-shirt. Please believe me. Choose one of the pairs below and you’re sure to get compliments.
shoes
I only buy shoes about once every other season, so I want to know if I’m making the right investment. I recently purchased Madewell’s Greta Ballet flats in red. I’m obsessed with how these shoes add a bright pop of color to my usually muted fall outfits. Similarly, my knee-high boots are the perfect addition to almost everything I wear this time of year. It looks perfectly modern with a short plaid skirt and sweater, or cottagecore chic with my longer prairie-style dress.
No matter your shoe style, keeping it classic this fall will give you a pair you’ll wear forever. With timelessness in mind, you can find shoes that pair beautifully with any style or aesthetic.
accessories
Accessories are so much fun in the fall, and when it gets chilly, I end up recklessly layering scarves and hats. Suede is the hottest material this season, and we love incorporating it into bags, belts, and all the other details to brighten up an outfit. But if you buy one accessory this season, make it a classic hoop. I still love the silver trend and everything from Heaven Mayhem will become an instant heirloom. It will elevate any outfit you wear this season.
