A Fall Capsule Wardrobe

October 9, 2024

A Fall Capsule Wardrobe

Many, many years ago, as I got older and as my lifestyle evolved as well, I really leaned into building a wardrobe of high quality pieces. I made a list of wardrobe essentials and decided to hone in my shopping on quality over quantity.

I began to spend less at fast fashion spots and instead built a closet largely made of investment pieces that would lend themselves to many outfit ideas. It led to a functional wardrobe of foundational pieces that I love and wear again and again.

The idea of a capsule wardrobe is a compelling one and I think it works especially well during Fall. Honing in on staples makes getting dressed easier and often allows you to shop less. Today’s post will help you build out some wardrobe staples perfect for the season ahead.

Today I’m breaking down what I think would make up an ideal Fall capsule wardrobe that would allow you to combine various pieces for a ton of variety when it comes to putting together outfits.

They are desert island basics…the classics. They are all timeless and able to be styled a multitude of ways. I hope you’ll find some good inspiration for getting dressed this season. And, of course, remember to always make these pieces your own and true to your personal style.

Fall Capsule Wardrobe

And if you want even more inspiration – don’t miss my 2024 Fall Essentials PDF! 50+ pages of shoppable staples to inspire your outfits this season.

Fall Capsule Wardrobe leather jacket

Leather Jacket

One of my most worn layers in Fall and Winter. I have two leather jackets- both different in style – that I invested in nearly ten years ago and still wear heavily!

If you’re looking for a good investment of real leather, I suggest this Madewell leather jacket or this Sezane leather jacket.

Fall Capsule Wardrobe sweater dress

Sweater Dress

Perfect for Fall & Winter, a sweater dress with knee high boots and a good tailored jacket is a great way to look chic from day to night.

I own this affordable style in two colors (size L).

I also love pairing a sweater dress with sleek sneakers.

Layering tees

Having a great, quality t-shirt in classic neutral colors that you feel good in is a closet must-have. I’ve tried loads of tshirts and this Leslie tee (size M) and this SoldoutNYC white tee (L) are favorites.

The M.M.LaFleur one has washed so well for me for years. I love the slightly longer sleeves and the thick, plush cotton its made of.

Fall Outfit with & Other Stories Coat

Crossbody Bag

For on the go styles in particular, I love a chic, timeless crossbody bag. Current favorites of mine include this one, this one and this one.

Get loads of bag inspo when you browse My Bag Collection.

Cashmere Sweaters

Good cashmere is worth the money. I’d rather a few beautiful, investment cashmere sweaters than a handful of itchy or poorly made, poorly fitting sweaters hanging my closet. You can read all about the brands I think are worth investing in here: My Favorite Cashmere.

Fall Date Night Outfit featuring Faux Leather Pants

Pumps

The Sarah Flint Perfect Pump are so comfortable that you won’t wince at the idea of wearing a heel. You can use code SF-MEGHAN for 15% off your order.

And also I love my Chanel slingbacks as my other most worn pair of heels.

Veronica Beard Blazer

Blazers

For an investment one, this is my favorite (wearing an 8). The Sezane Christie Blazer is also great and I own it in two colors in size 6.

If you don’t have a black blazer that you feel great in, there’s no time like the present. It’s an instant mood booster and can be restyled throughout the year in loads of ways. I never go to Paris in the Fall without packing a black blazer.

This one is a great affordable option.

I buy most of my blazers at Veronica Beard, Everlane, Ann Taylor, J.Crew, & Other Stories, Mango, Sezane & M.M.LaFleur.

Agolde Jeans | Fall Capsule Wardrobe

Tweed Jackets

Little tweed jackets are my go-to with jeans, trousers and even over dresses.

I find the best ones usually at Mango, Veronica Beard and at Ba&sh Paris.

J.Crew Trousers Paris Outfit

Trousers

Speaking of trousers, a great drapey pair is a must have in any capsule wardrobe. I travel in mine, take meetings in mind and love dressing them up or dressing them down. This pair I am wearing above are my favorites (size 8).

Related: How to Style Trousers

Paris Fall Outfit in the Palais Royal Gardens featuring Gucci loafers and a striped sweater by LaLigne and blazer

Timeless Loafers

An iconic shoe silhouette that will never go out of style. Favorite loafers of mine include the classic Gucci loafers and this pair by Freda Salvador.

For a more affordable style, try these that are comfortable and don’t break the bank.

Ballet Flats

A beautiful flat is well worth the investment as you’ll wear them time and time again. It’s also time to say goodbye to wearing beat up, seen-better-days flats. One of my favorite pairs is the Sarah Flint Natalie bow flat. My most worn pair are my investment Chanel Ballet Flats. I wear them year round.

And Other Stories Coat Jenni Kayne Alpaca Sweater Inez Boots Fall Outfit

Heeled Boots

For me living in New York there are six months out of the year when I am looking to wear a pair of heeled booties. I live in my Loeffler Randall Isla Boots and style them a myriad of ways. From skirts to jeans to dresses.

Make sure whatever heeled boot you choose works for you and your lifestyle. And ensure they are comfortable! Buying cheap shoes means less comfort which means less wear.

Related: A Roundup of My Favorite Boots and Booties

Belted Coat or Car Coat

Depending on your style and size you may have a preference when it comes to coats you like. I’m one who loves both a classic car coat for more casual looks and a belted, slightly oversized coat for more dressed up outfits. 

You can check out My Favorite Coats for some styling inspiration and to see all my favorite brands to buy from.

Gardin in Paris in Fall | Fall Capsule Wardrobe

Sleek Sneakers

There’s nothing better for a capsule wardrobe than a sleek white sneaker. Endlessly versatile when it comes to styling, you can pair it with jeans, black pants, dresses, skirts – you name it.

For me it is my Common Projects Sneakers but there are plenty of similar styles for less. Just be sure and read the reviews beforehand if you’re not going to invest on sneakers.

Trench Coat

You can’t go wrong with a beautiful trench in your coat arsenal. I wear my favorite trench coats all Fall long.

How to Style a Trench Coat

Sezane Ralph Jacket Fall Monochrome Outfit

Versatile Jeans

Finding great jeans is like kissing a lot of frogs till you find the prince. Trial and error will serve you well! I have a few brands I rely on and several styles I keep in rotation. 

My Favorite and Most-Worn Jeans

Button Down Blouse

There’s a reason this style staple has passed the test of time. If you don’t have one that fits well, now is the time to trade it in. No gaping buttons, no sad fabric. My favorite versatile one is by Sezane.

. . .

So what do you guys think? Could you do a capsule wardrobe? Do you agree with my picks that can mix and match? Any pieces that you would add?

Shop Fall Capsule Items

 

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comments +

  1. Melanie says:

    Looooove all of these suggestions. I don’t think I could commit to a true capsule wardrobe, but I’m working at building some good basics up in my collection for easy, go-to outfits! Need to get some of those Kate Spade pumps.

  2. Marianne says:

    I am having such a hard time with jeans, I bought several pairs from you last post. I have thick legs and small wait. I also will not wear my jeans tight. I think I like the mother boyfriend the best. I will continue to look and shop. Love your blog and look forward to reading daily

    • Meghan says:

      Ugh jean shopping is SO hard, I hear you. Have you tried more of a Straight Jean? They’re back in style and I think have more give than skinny jeans. I also think J.Crew does a good job with jeans with different amounts of give.

  3. Shannon says:

    You do a white shirt so well.

  4. Elisa says:

    Staple St. was a perfect location for the pictures in this post!

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