Fall 2022 Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
IMAGE COURTESY IG @kaitlynsrutledge
Fall hit New York City quickly this week, and with it, brought a change in wardrobe. It’s time to pull out our warm clothes, but let’s be honest—early-20-something sized closets can fit about 2.5 wool sweaters. Maybe a pair of boots if you’re lucky.
My solution? A capsule-esque wardrobe. Like many NYC women, I love neutrals. This lends itself perfectly to versatile pieces that can be worn all season and for years to come.
I’ve put together my ideal capsule wardrobe for this autumn that’s easy on your closet space, but chic enough for your “that girl” Instagram feed. Happy fall shopping!
Tops
Oversized Sweater
This piece is an obvious must. This season, we’re seeing a rise in the “anti-silhouette,” nods to the early 2000s, and preppy-chic. So, don’t be afraid to go oversized and pair your sweater with a collard button-down underneath and a low-waisted mini-skirt. Your chunky sweater outfit this fall is somewhere between When Harry Met Sally and Blair Waldorf.
This high-neck from COS is a great option for a reliable, long-lasting piece.
o COS FUNNEL-NECK PURE CASHMERE SWEATER in color Cream
If you’re trying to stay on the lower end of sweater price points, this Zara option is a great choice for a similar silhouette.
ZARA BOYFRIEND 100% WOOL SWEATER in color Bone
Staying on the Zara beat. this pick accomplishes our same “that girl” aesthetic, and provides a great opportunity for layering with its low V-neck cut.
Collared Cardigan
This variation of cardigan adds a subtle collar detail to the classic ribbed cardigan, making it the perfect top to throw on with a denim bottom for a put-together, casual look.
Reformation is a great place to look for sustainable capsule pieces to build out your wardrobe— this pick is an easy casual to dressy top for a variety of occasions.
o REFORMATION Fantino Cashmere Collared Cardigan in color Gossamer
For a lower price point and unique zip-up detailing, go for this ASOS choice.
o ASOS Pieces Ribbed Collar Cardigan with Zip Detail in color Chocolate Brown
Black Turtleneck
This item has been a staple in our fall wardrobes for decades, and for good reason. Black turtlenecks are by far the most versatile item in this round-up; if you don’t have yours, now is the time to hit ADD TO CART.
For the classic, this Free People option is my ideal choice.
o FREE PEOPLE The Rickie Top in color Black
For a trending spin on a classic, this Baserange piece with exposed seams nods to a recent detailing trend popularized by Gen-Z.
o BASERANGE Black Omato Turtleneck in color Black
Bottoms
Sheer tights
Something about sheer black tights just screams fall. The quickest way to elevate any skirt ensemble AND get you feeling snatched? Easily a favorite on my list.
Speaking of feeling snatched, Kim has you covered in that department. These Skims tights may run on the pricier side, but the reviews are raving— no surprise when it comes to this ultra-successful shapewear brand.
o SKIMS Full Control Tights in color Onyx
If you’re looking to make a subtle statement, these Free People patterned sheer tights are the perfect addition to your closet.
o FREE PEOPLE Butterfly Lace Tights in color Black
Mini skirt
Remember that mini skirt you need to pair with your chunky sweaters? Well, here they are!
The queen of the “that girl” viral aesthetic, Matilda Djerf is now an entrepreneur with her own brand— Djerf Avenue. This black mini is one of capsule wardrobe dreams.
For a preppier look, go for this ASTR the Label tweed.
o ASTR THE LABEL Christa Skirt in color Brown Multi
Loose trouser
Coming off the summer wide-leg linen pant, the loose pant finds its way into our fall line up in the form of a heavier trouser variation. Dress it up for a night out or down for a stroll through the park, these are simply the perfect pants.
Everlane has made a name for itself in the wide leg pant business, and it’s time for you to join in on the hype.
o EVERLANE The Way-High® Drape Pant in color Sandstone
For a similar silhouette, save a few dollars and go with this Abercrombie alternative.
o ABERCROMBIE & FITCH Tailored Wide Leg Pants in color Brown
Outerwear
Vest
Sorry, but Regina George had it wrong when she said vests are disgusting.
The belle of the ball— the Aritzia Super Puff took over as the superior puffer last year. The vest version of our favorite jacket is here & you need it.
o ARITZIA The Super Puff™ Shorty Vest in color Rich Mocha Brown
Or, for a dressier option, go with this pull from Dissh.
o DISSH Rowan Cream Vest in color Cream
Faux Leather Jacket
Because wearing animals is out & edgy-chic is in.
Oversized blazers are hanging on in our trend cycle, so this leather twist is perfect for the new season.
o URBAN OUTFITTERS Jules Faux Leather Blazer in color Black
The trench coat is another great trend-defying piece— here is that old faithful in the new light of vegan leather.
o BARDOT Vegan Leather Trench Coat in color Chocolate
Shoes
Tall Black Boots
I, personally, think tall black boots can fix almost any outfit, but to each to their own.
If theres one thing that’s for sure, southern style elements are creeping into city goers closets. My favorite of these is by far cowboy boots!
o STEVE MADDEN Lasso Boots in color Black Multi
Cold & rainy doesn’t stand a chance against these budget-friendly, edgier option.
o AMAZON Mid Calf Cleated Chunky Platform High Ankle Fashion Boots in color Black
Loafer
Another classic back in the trend rotation, loafers are truly a tried-and-true perfect shoe.
Clean and classic is the name of the game with these gems.
o SAM EDELMAN Teagan Lug Sole Loafer in color Black
For a fresh twist, this monochromatic cream option is fabulous.
o NINE WEST Maibel Platform Penny Loafer in color Cream
New Balance Sneaker
Did you think we could make it through essential wardrobe pieces without a sneaker? Absolutely not.
The dad sneaker is out in full force— the New Balance 530s are reliable, comfortable, and ready to carry you through running all your fall errands.
o NEW BALANCE White 530 Sneaker in color White & Gray
If you prefer warmer neutrals, the New Balance 327s are your shoe.
o NEW BALANCE 327 in color Summer Fog with Macadamia Nut
I could add on and on to a neutral based wardrobe, but these are my official essentials this season to carry you into the next. Mix and match these items to your heart’s desire, and have fun with accessorizing. The options are endless.
Prepare your closets— fall is officially here!
xo
KR
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