What You Need to Create a Classic Fall Wardrobe

Fall is by and far my favorite time of year – the chill in the air, pumpkins, apple cider, cozying up with your love, and of course, fall fashion. Honestly if I could only wear sweaters, coats and boots for the rest of my life, I’d be totally happy.

I asked you all on Instagram, what you’d like to see for my first fall fashion post. The answer was a resounding “show us the classic fall wardrobe!”. As someone who believes in shopping your own closet and shopping smartly, I’m glad to hear this is what you all want to see.

Over the past several years, I’ve been working to create a fall wardrobe consisting of pieces that last season after season. These items should be classic in style and high quality so you’ll get a lot of use out of them. They should be easy to mix and match and not too trendy.

Now don’t get me wrong, I LOVE a good trend. There are some trends I’m very excited about this season, so you can expect a post on fall 2020 trends very soon. But for those of you looking for that classic fall wardrobe, read on. This one is for you!

Let me know in the comments one classic fall piece that you get use out of year after year! And if you love this post, please share it on your social channels so others can love it too.

Xx, Kelsey

TRENCH COAT

Transitional weather is the perfect time to whip out a trench coat. It’s probably THE most classic fall wardrobe piece on this list – I mean, Audrey Hepburn wore one in Breakfast at Tiffany’s! It’s easy to throw on over jeans and will make any outfit look chicer. Look for one that’s water-resistant like this one that I’ve had from Banana Republic for years.

LEATHER JACKET

Another staple as the weather changes, the leather jacket is so versatile. Throw it over a floral maxi or over a sweatshirt and leggings. It’s a cool-girl staple and acts as the perfect layering piece as the weather changes. Personally, I have one in several different colors, but you can’t go wrong with classic black.

BLACK BOOTIES

No matter what fall trends come around, I find that year after year I wear my black booties the most. The key thing to look for is a block heel for comfort and a silhouette that flatters your foot. Personally, I’m a huge fan of this pair from Marc Fischer. A classic piece like this should be higher quality than some of the trendier pieces you buy. You’ll want this shoe to last multiple seasons.

CHUNKY KNIT

Naturally, a classic fall wardrobe isn’t complete without sweaters. There’s a reason it’s called sweater weather! I’m the queen of purchasing too many sweaters, but the one I always end up wearing is a chunky white or cream colored knit.

LIGHTWEIGHT TURTLENECK

A lightweight turtleneck will make fall layering a sinch. Throw it on under your summer dress to get more wear out of it as the seasons change. It can be worn alone with a pair of jeans or under sweaters for additional warmth. I definitely get so much use out of mine.

MIDI SKIRT

Probably one of my favorite fall outfit combinations is a midi skirt + chunky knit + knee high boots. Midi skirts are so versatile this time of year because of their length. They work well with loafers or sneakers if you’re still warm enough to show some leg. And once it gets colder, you can throw on higher boots or tights.

BLACK SKINNY JEANS

I know that everyone is moving away from skinny jeans, but I always keep a classic black pair around for this time of year. Look for a pair that’s high waisted with some stretch. They pair well with every type of fall boot and make an easy outfit when you throw them on with a sweater.

LOAFERS

I’m a huge fan of a classic loafer, and fall is the perfect time to pull them out. There are so many options now – classic black, brown, or a fun color like red. This year, I’m looking to pick up a classic brown pair for that slightly preppy fall look.

BROWN BAG

Fall fashion is often defined by fall colors. A high quality brown leather bag will complete any look. The size and shape are up to you and your lifestyle, but I love this bucket bag from Sézane (bonus the leather smells soooo good).

FALL-TONED SCARF

Even if you live somewhere warm (I grew up in Texas, so I know the struggle), you can still get fall vibes out of your outfit. Add a fall-toned silk scarf to a neutral summer dress, and you’ll instantly look ready for the season. There are so many ways to wear it, that you’ll get plenty of use out of it. And if you live somewhere colder, go for a thicker scarf in traditional fall colors.