While sometimes I can’t pass up a particular trend (like all the fun fall handbags), at the end of the day what I really want are wardrobe essentials that I can wear on repeat and that never go out of style. Each season I curate a mini capsule collection with staple items that can be mixed and matched with on trend pieces and accessories. My magic formula for a fall capsule wardrobe revolves around 2 bottoms, 2 tops, 1 dress, 2 outerwear layers, 2 pairs of shoes, and an accessory. For details on those 10 pieces, as well as a few favorite shopping finds from around the web, read on below!

A Versatile (& Cozy) Sweater

When it’s chilly outside, I want nothing more than for my outfit to be cozy and comfortable. I love finding classic sweaters made from quality materials (100% cotton, wool, and/or cashmere) that I know will last for years. Each fall I usually invest in at least one new classic sweater that I then wear on repeat for months!

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Silk Blouse

A classic silk blouse is a wardrobe must. During the fall months, silk blouses are the perfect layering piece to wear under blazers, lightweight jackets, and sweaters. Whether you opt for a feminine style with a bow tie, or a menswear-inspired style with a collar, you’ll be able to wear it with denim, pants, skirts, and even underneath a shift dress. 

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Classic Blazer

It’s no secret that I’m a fan of blazers — sometimes I even feel like I wear them too much! Blazers make it so easy to transform any outfit from casual to polished. I love how with one additional piece a weekend outfit can instantly be meeting-appropriate. A classic wool blazer — like my new favorite herringbone one from Boden — is the perfect fall layer and feels old school and preppy, in the best way. 

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Relaxed Denim

During the fall months when I wear booties frequently, I love a great pair of relaxed fit boot cut denim. This style of jeans can be dressed up or down, and are always comfortable (a fall must!). In general, fall is my favorite time of year to buy a fresh pair of classic jeans to keep on rotation for months and even years to come. As much as I wear denim, new jeans are always worth the investment! 

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The New Classic Dress Pant

When the weather turns chilly it’s nice to swap summer dresses and skirts for chic dress pants. There are so many styles I love right now that don’t feel dated or drab. From high waisted to cropped and from solid colors to plaid prints, opt for whichever style best suits your body type and existing wardrobe. We’ll be styling ours all season with both silk blouses and cozy sweaters depending on the occasion!

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Long Sleeve Dress

I am a huge fan of dresses with long sleeves, especially in the fall months when I don’t have a summer glow anymore and want my arms to be covered. A long sleeve dress is perfect for when you want to look sophisticated but don’t have too much time to think about what to wear — just one piece and you’re done! Whether it’s an LBD, shirtdress, or fit and flare, having one go-to long sleeve dress to throw on when in doubt is a must!

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Lightweight Coat

I’ll admit that it’s a special occasion if we need to wear a coat in Houston during the fall, BUT it’s actually already been borderline coat weather here! For the fall months it’s important to have one classic lightweight coat that can be worn over everything, from sweaters and denim to a dress. I love classic peacoat and trench styles in neutral hues like grey, camel, ivory, and black. 

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Booties

A pair of booties that is both comfortable and chic is essential for a fall wardrobe. On cold or rainy days when you want to wear a heel but aren’t up for pumps or sandals, a bootie will be your best friend!

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The Perfect Flat

It’s about that time of year when open toe shoes only feel appropriate for  getting a pedicure. Swap your favorite sandal for a reliable flat. Whether it’s a loafer, mule, ballet flat, or chic sneaker, choose a pair of flats that are comfortable enough to wear multiple days in a row and that can be styled for work, dinner, and weekend outings. I invested in these loafers last year, and they are one of my most worn purchases!

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Classic Tote

Fall always feels like the busiest time of year. After the slow summer months, my fall calendar always fills up with work events, traveling, holidays, school activities, you name it! A packed schedule means gravitating towards a bag that is both functional and chic, and that I can carry just as easily to a meeting as to a little league baseball game. A classic leather tote will never go out of style and will come in handy again and again, no matter what season it is! 

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What are your thoughts on curating a capsule wardrobe? Do you prefer lots of clothing options in your closet or just a selection of essentials? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!