Classic Fall Capsule Wardrobe
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Fall is quickly approaching, and I’ve created the perfect classic fall capsule wardrobe for 2023. It features the fall wardrobe essentials that you need to put together timeless, chic outfits that will keep you warm during the cooler months. I have also included several outfit ideas that you can recreate using the items in this classic wardrobe. There are endless ways to mix and match pieces, so you’ll always have something stylish to wear. Continue reading for the 18 key items you need to create this classic fall wardrobe.
How to Build a Fall Capsule Wardrobe
By building a capsule wardrobe for fall, you will spend less time getting dressed in the morning and create more outfits with a few versatile pieces. You’ll always look stylish and be prepared for the variable weather without having to worry about what you’re going to wear.
This capsule wardrobe is meant to inspire you as you curate your wardrobe for fall, and it is easily adjustable to suit your personal tastes and lifestyle. You can add or subtract items, swap in different pieces, etc. Here are a few ways to adapt this capsule so that it works for you.
Climate
If you live in a colder climate, consider adding extra outerwear to this wardrobe. A wool coat can be added or swapped for the trench coat to make this wardrobe appropriate for colder weather. A leather jacket, black or neutral blazer or wool shirt jacket are also timeless outerwear options for fall if you need an extra coat or jacket. Lightweight blouses can also be switched for heavier knits. Add a pair of tights to wear under the dress and skirt for extra warmth. Wear a base layer under each outfit to ensure you stay warm.
If you live in a warmer climate or you want to adapt this capsule for pre-fall, choose lightweight outerwear such as short jackets and blazers. If knits are too heavy, try long-sleeve tops or add an extra lightweight shirt. Include a few tank tops and t-shirts to serve as layering pieces. Swap the scarf for another accessory.
Personal Style
This classic capsule wardrobe should inspire you, but you don’t have to copy it exactly. Incorporate pieces that reflect your own personal style. Too many neutral-colored pieces? Opt for bright colored knits, blouses and blazers. Try choosing one or two accent colors for the fall like burgundy, forest green or chocolate brown. Swap the oversized blazer for a form-fitting cardigan, tight leggings for Mom jeans, black accessories for beige. Customize this wardrobe to reflect your unique style.
Color Palette
A neutral color palette will allow you to create more classic outfits with fewer pieces, so begin by investing in pieces in neutral colors such as black, white, camel, beige, gray, etc. Then choose one or two accent colors to add a statement to your looks. For a fall capsule wardrobe, dark colors like mustard yellow, emerald green and burnt orange are ideal. If you prefer an all-neutral color palette, then you might diversify your looks by choosing neutral-colored items in autumnal patterns like leopard print, houndstooth, plaid, or stripes.
Budget
Investing in high-quality pieces will help to extend the life of your capsule wardrobe, but if your budget is limited, you can still curate a classic fall capsule that won’t break the bank. Start by assessing the items that you already own. This will allow you to determine which pieces will be the most valuable to add to your wardrobe. You probably already own some of the items in this capsule wardrobe, and adding the right pieces can fill in the gaps. Once you identify the most important items, you can start to budget for them and slowly curate your wardrobe. Shopping for everything at once can be stressful and expensive, so try to enjoy the process and you’ll appreciate your autumn wardrobe even more.
Lifestyle
This fall wardrobe is perfect for putting together everyday looks, but it can be easily adapted to suit your unique lifestyle.
If you work in an office building, you can update this wardrobe so that it is work appropriate. Swap the dark wash jeans for black pants, the plaid mini skirt and turtleneck dress for longer styles, and the white tee for another sweater or blouse. You might also consider adding a black blazer to this capsule for more office-appropriate outerwear. For more stylish workwear ideas, check out my Classic Work Capsule Wardrobe.
If you’re a student or live a more casual lifestyle, this wardrobe can be modified for fewer formal looks. Switch the block heels for a classic white sneaker. Instead of blouses, choose long-sleeve tees or extra knits. Skip the skirt and dress and opt for a comfortable pair of trousers.
Classic Fall Capsule Pieces
This classic fall capsule wardrobe features 18 key pieces: 2 pieces of outwear, 5 tops, 3 bottoms, 1 dress, 3 pairs of shoes and 4 accessories which will allow you to put together several timeless fall outfits. It includes style staples that can be easily worn together for both daytime and evening autumn looks. The best part is that you likely already have some of these items in your current wardrobe.
Outerwear
Tops
Bottoms
Shop the Capsule Wardrobe
Classic Fall Outfit Ideas
The Best Brands for Building a Classic Capsule Wardrobe
You can find classic pieces for your wardrobe almost anywhere, but there are a some brands that offer a better selection of timeless, chic attire. Here are some of the best capsule brands for building a classic wardrobe based on your budget. Shop these brands to curate your own fall capsule or to add extra items to this classic fall capsule wardrobe.
Low Budget
Mid-Range Budget
High Budget
What are your classic wardrobe essentials for fall? Let me know in the comments below.
