Creating a fall capsule wardrobe is an easy way to maximize your options while minimizing your spending. Add in a few well-appointed accessories and you’re all set for the upcoming season. When you’re short on storage or closet space, a capsule wardrobe is a life-saver and a space saver, too.
This topic is near and dear to my heart as we downsized from a larger house to a smaller apartment. We found that we had to really cull our belongings and only keep the things we truly loved and needed. What I discovered was that more than 40% of the clothes in my wardrobe were rarely worn. I gravitated to the same items again and again.
As I observed these separate pieces I realized they had a common theme; that theme was color palette. Whether summer, winter, spring, or autumn, my basic color palette was the same. I could mix in a bright color for spring, or a warm color for the fall, but overall, the basic palette remained constant. And so that is where we begin. We begin with our color palette.
A color palette is the first step to creating a cohesive wardrobe that coordinates well and allows for the most mix and match options. Start with basic colors, a fun pattern or two, and an accent color. From there, you’ll have all the puzzle pieces to create endless outfits that will get you through any occasion, random weather pattern, or night out on the town.
For this Fall 2024 capsule wardrobe, our color palette will be: black, brown, cream, plaid, and a fun animal print.
Slacks and skirts
I love a good, well fitting pair of slacks. Right now, wide leg pants are completely on trend and can be worn in a variety of ways. They can be dressed up with heels, or dressed down with a trendy trainer. As temperatures start to drop and an autumn chill fills the air, a good pair of slacks will be a staple in your Fall 2024 capsule wardrobe.
Along with slacks, a nice slip skirt is a great way to cover your leg and isn’t too heavy as the weather fluctuates from day to day. These skirts can also be dressed up with a knee boot, or can be dressed down with a graphic T and a pair of booties.
Here are my favorite from my own capsule wardrobe. Many of these options have transitioned from my summer capsule wardrobe. I swapped out shorts for slacks, and added in the leopard print palazzo pants.
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Blouses and tops
Because the weather in autumn fluctuates from day to day, and temperatures may shift throughout the day, dressing in layers is important to staying comfortable. My preference is to wear a thinner layer and pair a warmer layer that can be added or removed as necessary.
My favorite blouses are very simple in style and can be worn in multiple ways. I prefer a cami blouse in multiple color ways of white / cream, black, olive green, and brown. To add a touch of style, I also add in a blouse or two of a playful animal print. If you’re inclined, a beautiful scarf would dress these camis up nicely.
Here are my favorites from my capsule wardrobe. The camis have transitioned from my summer wardrobe. The two animal print blouses I’ve owned for years. They are a fall staple that keeps coming back year after year.
Blazers and sweaters
When temps outdoors are warmer, that often means the temperatures indoors are cooler – or downright cold! I think I wear more sweaters and blazers in the summer than I do in the winter. But autumn is that wonderful time of year when it’s not too hot outdoors to add a layer, and you get to stay cozy indoors, too.
While I don’t recommend mixing patterns such as the brown animal print blouse and the animal print palazzo pants, I do think mixing some pattern like an animal print and a plaid blazer can be a really pretty look when done correctly. I love a great blazer – or even a blazer inspired cardigan. I have a few favorites in my capsule wardrobe, and the plaid blazer is definitely on my wishlist.
Accessories
What would a fall capsule wardrobe be without a few accessories. While I love boots and booties in the fall, where I live, it is often still a little too warm to wear them daily. I like to opt for a classic shoe that can be worn with slacks or skirts, in most weather conditions and still be comfortable for everyday wear.
I also try to keep my handbags to a minimum, opting for a black and a brown. That generally gets me through any occasion, and I don’t have to worry about swapping out my handbag every day.
For the fall, I generally prefer a gold jewelry. I find it coordinates well with this color palette, and really brightens up an otherwise dark and moody style. Here are my favorites. The black handbag and the Madewell flats are absolutely on my wish list for this fall. If you’re into dupes, the brown top handle bag is a VERY CLOSE second to the ones from Betega Veneta.
Above all else, be true to yourself
When assembling your own fall capsule wardrobe, remember to follow your own sense of style. If you feel good in something, by all means, wear it! You are uniquely you, and your clothing choices should reflect your personality and personal style. Be you. You’re the only one who can be.
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