The Ultimate Guide to Fall Fashion: Embrace the Best Fall Basics
Fall is in the air, and that means it's time to update your wardrobe with the must-have staples that will elevate your style game this season. Whether you're a fashion-forward trendsetter or love timeless classics, we've got you covered with our carefully curated list of fall fashion essentials. First on the list is a cozy knit sweater. As the temperature drops, there's nothing more comforting than wrapping yourself in a soft, warm knit. Opt for versatile neutral colors like camel or charcoal for endless outfit possibilities. Style it with jeans and ankle boots for a casual day out or layer it over a dress for a chic and sophisticated look. Next up, a tailored blazer is a must-have for adding polish to any ensemble. Choose one in a classic black or navy hue, or if you're feeling bold, go for a trendy plaid pattern. Pair it with trousers and loafers for a polished office look or throw it over a graphic tee and jeans for a stylish off-duty outfit. No fall wardrobe would be complete without a pair of stylish boots. Whether you prefer ankle boots, knee-highs, or over-the-knee styles, investing in a quality pair will instantly elevate your entire look. Opt for a versatile color like black or tan that can effortlessly complement any outfit, or choose a statement color or pattern for a bold fashion statement. When it comes to accessories, a chunky knit scarf is a must-have for both style and functionality. Not only will it keep you warm during chilly days, but it also adds a cozy touch to any outfit. Opt for a neutral color with subtle details or go for a bold hue to make a fashion statement. Wrap it around your neck in various ways or drape it over your shoulders for a chic and effortless look. Lastly, don't forget to update your beauty routine for the new season. Swap out your lightweight summer moisturizer for a richer formula to combat dryness caused by colder weather. Embrace darker, bolder shades for your makeup, such as deep berry lipsticks and smoky eyeshadows. And don't forget to take care of your skin by incorporating hydrating face masks and nourishing serums into your beauty arsenal. With these fall wardrobe staples and beauty tips, you'll be ready to embrace the season with confidence and style. So start updating your closet and revamping your beauty routine, because fall fashion awaits your arrival!
Essential Fall Wardrobe Staples
I’ve had a major glow-up over the years. Partly because I learned how to simultaneously tame and show off my thick curls, but mostly because I’ve honed my style. And as we shift into the colder months, you can bet I’m taking this skill into curating my autumnal closet – and all the best fall basics I’ll have on rotation from now until spring.
Obsessing over my style board on Pinterest has been a huge source of inspiration in my sartorial shifts. But trust me: it’s serious work (wink). I have a monthly practice where I audit and delete images that no longer inspire me, import new looks from my Instagram saved folder (pro tip), and even have a widget that refreshes every hour with another favorite look. I take my style seriously.
Doing this consistently over the last couple of years has not only helped me figure out and evolve my personal style, but it’s allowed me to create a very efficient shopping list. It’s simple – all you have to do is gather your favorite inspiration images, put on a fun playlist, and recreate as many looks as you can using only your current fall wardrobe. And believe me, that’s where the tried-and-true, best fall basics come in handy.
The Best Fall Basics to Wear This Season
Go through this process once, and you’ll quickly realize that you need to track down the perfect sweater, jacket, or pair of boots to take your wardrobe to the next level. With this method, I’ve transformed my closet from an uninspired collage of trends to a collection full of fall basics and neutral colors that I can endlessly mix and match.
But know this: The perfect closet doesn’t have to be a rigid capsule wardrobe. However, it does have to withstand trends and reflect who you are. With that in mind, keep scrolling for the best fall basics and essentials our editors swear by – this season and the next!
Every product is curated with care by our editors, and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Madewell The Signature Trench Coat
This coat makes all my effortless French girl dreams come true. In this neutral color, it will layer just as easily over a t-shirt and jeans as on any other fall outfit. Obsessed.
Price: $218
Gap Double-Breasted Blazer
Did you get the memo? Cardigans are out and blazers are IN. I’ve seen so many classic blazers ranging from the perfect plaid to classic neutrals. This one is the perfect mix.
Price: $118 (reg. $148)
Reformation Kendi Denim Midi Dress
Nothing says fall quite like a good head-to-toe denim look. I am particularly partial to this Reformation number because it can go from day to night in a snap. It’s all in the accessories. Swap out your work bag for a smaller satchel, add a fun earring, and keep your heeled boots. This dress is the perfect length for any occasion.
Price: $218
Banana Republic Factory Wide-Leg Jumpsuit
Not only do jumpsuits automatically make you look put together, but they take all the effort out of planning an outfit. Perfect for work, lunch, or a wine night by the fire, this short-sleeved denim jumpsuit will easily become your go-to. I love mixing my jumpsuit with the fall trend du jour: ballet flats. But if I’m feeling like something more timeless, heeled boots make for a casual, yet chic seasonal look.
Price: $75 (reg. $150)
Madewell Layton Midi Slip Dress
Nap dresses are forever, but we love the simple, streamlined ease of a slip dress. The good news is that you can take it with you from season to season. While in the summer we paired this dress with sandals, in the fall, we like to layer up with tights, a cozy sweater, lug sole boots, and a scarf to top things off.
Price: $98
Everlane The Ribbed Mock Neck Midi Dress
This dress is the perfect mix of flattering and fitted while also being unbelievably comfy. Throw on a pair of statement earrings and you’re all set – this is a one-and-done sort of outfit.
Price: $198
Quince 100% Leather Motorcycle Jacket
Every timeless wardrobe needs a good leather jacket. And while many real-deal picks will set you back hundreds in price, this affordable option looks even better. We love the laidback appeal that’s nonetheless undeniably sexy. Consider this your ticket to cool girl fall.
Price: $149.20
Jenni Kayne Pleated Skirt
Maxi skirts are everywhere this season, but luckily, they’ll never go out of style. While this is on the expensive side, the investment is worth it. The timeless structure and quality design ensure you’ll be wearing it for years to come. It can be styled in endless ways and worn just as easily to the office as for a date night out.
Price: $395
Haven Well Within Organic Cotton Shaker Stitch Cardigan
I envision cozying up in this cardigan with a full monochromatic look, head to toe. It’s relaxed while still feeling chic and can look cozy, classy, or sexy depending on how you style it. (Bonus: You’ll reach for it whenever you need an extra layer of comfort when working from home.)
Price: $118
Faherty Stretch Cord Wide Leg Pant
Admittedly, these retro pants are slightly outside of my comfort zone. But rest assured, they are so versatile and equally chic. They pair beautifully with boots, heeled mules, and white sneakers. They’re also the perfect accouterment to your fave long-sleeve (or perfect t-shirt) and cozy vest.
Price: $168
alo High-Waist Dreamscape Trouser
Trousers have become one of my favorite wardrobe pieces. They always look chic and are easy to dress up for a night out or a casual look with sneakers and a tee. I have this pair in both colors and they always get compliments.
Price: $148
Abercrombie & Fitch Vegan Leather 90s Relaxed Pant
It took me a while to realize that, yes, anyone can truly pull off leather pants. These look stunning paired with a t-shirt to run errands, a black bodysuit to go out, and a button-down for work.
Price: $88 (reg. $110)
Madewell Square-Neck Long-Sleeve Crop Tee
A wardrobe essential. Don’t take my word for it, buy it now and thank me later. This tee has the perfect scoop neck, and the material is light and cozy without being fully transparent. (Which, let’s admit, is the worst quality in a white t-shirt.) Size up for a looser fit.
Price: $48
SKIMS Long Sleeve Crew Neck Bodysuit
This perfect crewneck bodysuit gives me 90s supermodel vibes in the best possible way. It’s soft, stretchy, and creates the sleekest silhouette under blazers or on its own with vintage jeans.
Price: $68
Haven Well Within Fleece Rib Trim Joggers
Far too often, the sweatpants in our drawer are stretched out and ill-fitting – what we reach for when we really don’t care about looking pulled together. But I believe that every fall wardrobe in 2023 should have a perfectly cut pair of sweatpants that can go from workout class to lunch date paired with a trench and cool sneakers. These are super soft and will make you feel sporty on even your laziest day.
Price: $98
Reformation Flounce Skirt
This is the perfect mini skirt that pairs just as well with a chunky oversized sweater as with a basic tee. While this classic black mini is trending, I also think this is one of those essential wardrobe staples that you can wear through most seasons while still looking timeless.
Price: $98
Madewell The Wyckoff Chelsea Lugsole Boot
These are my favorite pair of boots because they’re both stylish and actually comfortable to walk in. I love that they button up almost any look and pair as perfectly with cuffed jeans as they do with cozy socks over leggings. An instant fall fave.
Price: $198
Tecovas The Jamie
The cowboy obsession continues. While it may seem like a niche trend, I’ve discovered that cowboy boots pair with all of the best fall basics. From my long, flowy dresses to denim skirts to cozy cords, this pair is the perfect statement piece that melds function with style. Pro tip: This pair is expensive, but one of the best for authentic cowboy boots you can trust will last for years.
Price: $275
Sam Edelman Laurs Loafers
This classic, yet on-trend shoe will last you forever. And while they give any outfit a preppy appeal, they can pair beautifully with just about any style or aesthetic.
Price: $150
White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap
I love that you can dress this wrap up or down, and it’s a go-to for travel. Wear it as a scarf for a bit of drama or a shawl to keep you warm. There’s nothing like cozy cashmere on your skin in the cooler weather.
Price: $350
A New Day Gold Multi Tube Hoop Earrings
If you buy one accessory this season, make it a pair of gold hoops. They look good with anything and can even elevate a simple sweatsuit. The perfect outfit topper.
Price: $7.99
TIGI Bed Head Hair Wax Stick
While this isn’t technically a wardrobe piece, it’s a style hack that I will bring with me into fall. I started slicking my hair back in a bun after being at the beach and feeling too lazy to wash my hair, but now I can’t stop. Something about a slicked-back bun with some fun earrings elevates every outfit – even a turtleneck and jeans. Plus, this wax stick is foolproof for those who need some help in the hair styling department.
Price: $16.19
So there you have it – a lineup of the best fall basics to elevate your style effortlessly. Embrace the cozy, stylish vibes of the season and rock these essentials with confidence. Fall fashion has never looked so good!
