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I recently spoke with design editor Kristen, and she claimed she’s entering the “fancy girl era.” Immediately I wanted to adopt the same mantra. And it was clear to me that I was not alone. The pandemic-induced resurgence of sweatpants and object-centric trends has paved the way for a new push toward quiet luxury. We want more from our clothes, and as a result, we prioritize and invest in clothes that will look good for years to come. Luckily, the best fall basics accomplish just that, allowing you to curate a fall wardrobe you’ll love to wear from now until spring.
I’ve experienced quite a few shines over the years. And while some of that is a result of having a little more disposable income since graduating college, I think it’s mostly intentional. These days I decided to organize my wardrobe around three words that describe my style: elegant, feminine and understated. By refining my style goals to what makes me feel best, it’s easier to reject what doesn’t fit.
How to Manage Your Personal Style
My Pinterest style board served as a source of inspiration for these outfit changes. I’ve made it a monthly ritual to sift through and delete images that no longer spark joy, while also painstakingly pulling new looks from my Instagram saves.
This consistent practice has not only helped me define and develop my personal aesthetic, but it has also streamlined my shopping list. The process is simple. Gather your favorite inspirational images, create fun playlists, and see how many looks you can recreate with your current fall wardrobe. Trust me. This is where the best fall basics shine!
Basic fall items to wear this season
After going through this process just once, 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 wardrobe from a collage of dull trends to a collection full of the best fall basics and neutrals that I could endlessly mix and match.
But just know this: The perfect wardrobe doesn’t necessarily have to be a solid capsule wardrobe. But it has to withstand trends and reflect who you are. With that in mind, keep scrolling to find the best fall basics and fall must-haves.
outerwear
Outerwear can always be a little tricky during this transitional season. Some days you may need your heaviest coat, while others you can do without this outfit topper. I love this year’s semi-jacket obsession. It’s a classic piece that’s perfect for these months when it’s not too hot or too cold. The neutral color makes it easy to layer over a t-shirt and jeans like any other fall outfit. Assuming you’re in the English countryside, your wardrobe will do the rest.
Of course, every timeless wardrobe also needs a good leather jacket. And while many physical choices will cut the price hundreds of times, there are also plenty of cheaper options that look a lot better. Whichever outerwear you choose, consider this your ticket to a great women’s fall.
dress
Nap dresses are timeless, but we love the simple, streamlined comfort of slip dresses. To make my clothes fit all year round, I use a variety of styling tactics that keep me warm for the season. In the summer, I like to pair it with sandals, and in the fall, I like to finish it off by layering it with tights, a cozy sweater, lug-sole boots, and a scarf. And this season’s trend is chocolate brown? Chef (stylist)’s kiss.
A-line dresses are also perfect for fall. It reflects timeless tailoring and universally flattering shapes that many of us are loving right now. Perfect for work, lunch, or a night of wine drinking by the fire, this piece would be an easy choice. The A-line cut offers the ideal mix of flattering fit and fit while remaining incredibly comfortable. Put on some statement earrings and you’re all set. This is a one-and-done outfit.
Lastly, the sweater dress, a staple of every fall. She’s comfortable, flattering and indulgent, and will keep you warm without looking like you’ve worn every last piece of clothing in your closet. Not only does a sweater dress automatically make you look dapper, but it takes all the effort out of planning your outfit. I love mixing them with knee high heel boots for a casual yet chic seasonal look.
tower
In a season when we all prefer sweaters, tops can be tricky. but! It also makes my favorite fall pastime (layering) sleek and chic. I love a denim button-down as the topper of the perfect Canadian tuxedo outfit formula. Or add visual interest with fall-appropriate plaid and fun details.
I also love asymmetrical tops that flatter everyone’s body thanks to their eye-catching diagonals in a way that creates a more streamlined silhouette. Make your look even bolder with a one-shoulder top. Perfect for date night or dinner.
sweater
As temperatures start to drop, you start to crave chunky knits. But even during the coziest season of the year, I like to keep a clean look. This time of year there are a lot of cardigans, crewnecks, and my favorite, turtlenecks. Fortunately, many brands offer styles at a variety of prices, allowing you to purchase even the fanciest sweater. The options we’ve shared below each boast five-star reviews and are trouble-free (just follow the care instructions for the tee).
I imagine feeling cozy in this sweater with a completely monochromatic look from head to toe. This is a styling tip that allows you to create a comfortable and chic look at the same time. Depending on how you style it, you can feel cozy, luxurious, and sexy at the same time. (Bonus: You can use it whenever you need some extra comfort while working from home.)
Bottoms
It’s clear that trends come and go, especially this year, with barrel leg pants and denim making waves. But one style that will forever remain in my closet is the high-waisted, wide-leg pants. I think they stand out even on my petite frame (re: they don’t overwhelm me) and pair beautifully with any sweater or top. But I like it a little more put together for visual balance. Depending on the material, it can be always chic and comfortable to wear for a night out, or it can be worn for a casual look with sneakers and a T-shirt. Trust me. Choose one of the pairs below and you’ll always get compliments.
shoes
Since I only buy shoes about once a season, I want to know that I’m making the right investment. I recently purchased Madewell’s Greta Ballet Flats (red), and I’m in love with how these shoes add a vibrant pop of color to the muted fall outfits I often wear. Likewise, my knee-high boots are the go-to boot for almost everything I wear this time of year. It pairs perfectly with a short plaid skirt and sweater, or adds a touch of cottagecore chic with a long prairie-inspired dress.
Whatever your shoe style, keep it classic for fall and you’ll find a pair that will last forever. With a timeless mind, you’ll find shoes that beautifully complement any style or aesthetic.
accessories
Accessories are so fun in the fall. The chilly weather can make scarves and hats look reckless and stylish. Suede is a hot material this season, and we love how it makes an outfit shine by popping it on a bag, belt, or other details. But if you’re buying 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 enhance any outfit you wear this season.
