The Foundation for a Fall/Winter Capsule Wardrobe

I wanted to make note of 10 closet essentials for fall that are capsule-like and versatile. The luxury basics and considered investment pieces that form the foundation of a tightly curated wardrobe.

Think of this as an outline to the pieces in your F/W repertoire that should be high-quality and lasting. The classics that make an outfit strong and powerful. You don’t need a ton of each, just 1 solid piece will serve you from season to season.

I have been bookmarking tons of good stuff from around the web, so more fall wishlist things coming soon…

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1 / 10

quality basics to layer

As always, the basics are the building blocks of any wardrobe. It’s the easiest starting point, and essential to creating outfits that you love and feel great in. You know I swear by The Great tees (especially their slim tee), and I also always look to Bldwn, Rag & Bone, Theory, Totême, Alex Mill, and James Perse. Tees, ribbed tees, long sleeve–– I like to have a plethora in the hues of white, off-white, gray, nudes, and blacks to mix and match.

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2 / 10

trusty denim

A crucial part of a fall capsule wardrobe are jeans you love on rotation. A fit that was made for your body and is equally chic and comfortable. I personally go for straight leg, cropped, and skinny jeans. Some at the ankle, some above. Just to ensure that there are options for both ankle boots, riding boots, and flats/mules! Favorites are Agolde (particularly the Toni in all hues!), Frame, J Brand (everything is 40% off right now), and Totême. I also am curious about the Levi wedgie jean (with stretch), the reviews are so good…

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3 / 10

lush and cozy knitwear

An obvious one. But if we’re talking capsule… invest in a couple that are super beautiful and timeless. Not all sweaters are created equal, and the quality of a nicer sweater proves itself over time and is always exciting to reach for (if you ask me). I definitely go for cheaper options each year to rotate in and out, but focus on saving up for something that will stand the test of time in your closet. A bevy of brands I love to browse for beautiful knitwear: Isabel Marant, Vince, Everlane, Cuyana, Sézane, Loulou Studio and Mes Demoiselles!

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4 / 10

boots with sass

One of my favorite parts of fall dressing! A good boot collection can do all the heavy lifting with your fall style. Still very much so into the western trend, and will always love Chelsea boots and riding boots, too.

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5 / 10

mules to slip into

A perfect mule is essential in my closet, as I wear them almost year-round. Such a fan of so many styles so will share a bunch of my favorites below…

6 / 10

the boxy shirt jacket

I have a soft spot for this style jacket as you very well know now! They have become a big part of my yearly uniform. A few of my favorites are from Anine Bing, Aritzia, IRO, Isabel Marant, and Stories has some great options, too…

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7 / 10

leather in all forms

Jackets, tops, skirts, accessories… never enough! If we’re talking essentials though and building up a collection from the ground up, a jacket is the way to go. I personally believe in saving up or stalking eBay for a brand that will be a lifelong piece. IRO Paris make my personal favorite pieces to invest in…

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8 / 10

the do it all blazer

A timeless classic that stands the test of time in your wardrobe. A blazer that fits you live a glove and makes you feel powerful wearing it. I’m actually on the hunt for one for myself and am looking to designers like Isabel Marant (best), Vince, and Theory.

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9 / 10

sleek bags in all shapes and sizes

A beautiful structured bag is the perfect exclamation point to any fall outfit. Sleek with gold hardware––I like neutral and earthy tones as they go with everything… and am such a fan of the mock croc! Toffee, camel, nude, white, black. This time of year is my favorite time to invest in a new bag, it gives me that feeling of back to school shopping! A few I’ve bookmarked––

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10 / 10

rich and decadent accents

Decadent pieces that make an outfit sing! Love big gold or silver tube rings and heirloom pieces. Bulky tortoise or champagne frame sunnies. Quality over quantity when it comes to these accents. A handful of favorites below…