If you’re anything like my clients, you’re feeling ready for a seasonal refresh!

BUT before you run out and buy new clothes, take a look in your closet and see if you own any of my top 4 fall wardrobe essentials. Seasonal transitions are a great time to reevaluate what you own and do a mini-closet edit. This fall, I challenge you to shop your closet and re-style pieces you already own before buying a single new item! This way, when you create your fall shopping list you’ll know exactly which clothes you need (and which you don’t! 😉).

My top 4 Fall must-haves will help you create multiple outfits with only a few pieces (hello, capsule wardrobe!). Before shopping this list, be sure to check your closet and see if you already own a similar item. If you don’t, add it to your fall shopping list!

Essential #1 - Long sleeve Base-layer (Turtleneck, Long Sleeve, Henley)

A close-fitting base layer like a turtleneck or long-sleeve henley is absolutely essential for a fall/winter wardrobe. Think of them as the foundation and your layering pieces (jackets, sweaters, cardigans) as the house you’re building on top. It’s easy to forget that the foundation is there, but you can’t have one without the other! Choose core colors like grey, black, and navy.

Here’s a few examples of outfit formulas using a base layer top.

For Women

o   Jeans + Long Sleeve + Long Cardigan

o   Midi Skirt + Long Sleeve + Casual Jacket

Essential #2 - White Button-Down (Cotton)

This is a wardrobe essential you can wear year-round if you style it right! Depending on your preferences and body shape, I suggest trying a stiff poplin or a more relaxed cotton blend (will look soft and drapey). It’s a guaranteed wardrobe workhorse that you can wear casually on the weekend or level up for work! Don’t be afraid to spend a little more on tailored shirt in order to get the right fit!

Here’s a few examples of outfit formulas using a white button-down.

For Women

o   Sleeveless Dress + Button Down (layered underneath)

o   Slacks + Button Down + Long Cardigan

Essential #3 - Cardigan (Long Length preferred)

Cardigans are hands-down the best lightweight layering piece to own. They’re incredibly easy to style for a variety of events. In womenswear, I prefer a longer length (at the shortest mid-thigh). It doesn’t matter how tall you are, the long length looks great on everyone.

Here’s a few examples of outfit formulas using a cardigan.

For Women

o  Jeans + Printed Blouse + Long Cardigan

o  Midi Skirt + T-Shirt + Long Cardigan

Essential #4 - Dark Wash Jean

Fall means richer colors and cooler temps - enter the dark wash jean. It’s a wardrobe classic known for its ability to be dressed up or down.

If you don’t already have a pair of these bad boys in your closet, run, don’t walk to get a pair! The style of denim is totally up to you but as a personal stylist, I highly encourage you to choose a style and fit based not only on your preferences but also on your body shape. If you’re a past client, revisit your Style Profile for a run-down on your shape and proportions, or get in touch to set up a little personal shopping!

Want outfit formulas using dark wash jeans? Check out the formulas for items 1 - 3. You can wear just about anything with jeans!

So my homework for you today is:

1. Take a look in your closet to see if you already own any of my top 4 fall wardrobe essentials and create fall outfits using these pieces to better understand what you have and what you actually need.

2. Add the essentials you don’t own to your fall shopping list.

3. Shop intentionally on your own or use the contact page to set up a fall refresh.

Have fun planning your fall wardrobe!