Autumn Wardrobe Essentials

Let’s talk about clothes.

[Something new and different.]

I’ve been reading a lot of Unfancy lately [ie. stalking the archives like it’s nobody’s business], and my girl Alex is woking on building a capsule wardrobe for fall. SERIOUS props to these fine ladies, but we all know I am not [yet] strong enough to ditch all the Lilly and other unnecessary pieces crowding my closet(s) in lieu of a more simplified wardrobe, as much as I would like to.

That being said, I’ve realized over the years that there are a number of fall pieces in my closet that do get 10x as much use as others… the essentials, if you will. So I’ve compiled them here, if for no one else then for the incoming freshman girl at a university in Boston, so like myself once upon a time, who has NO idea how to navigate the absurdity that is New England weather.

(You just wait for winter, girlfriend. I’ll be back with that guide soon enough.)

[ 1 ] Chambray Shirt ($25):: Excellent layering piece. Obviously for under sweaters, but I’ve also taken to layering them over summer dresses I want to make work into fall.
[ 2 ] Striped 3/4-Length Tee ($45):: TBH, I wear mine all year round. Here’s a cute one on sale as well!
[ 3 ] Riding Boots ($198):: I have worn my Lauren Ralph Lauren riding boots to DEATH. I can’t think of one item in my closet that’s gotten more wear, besides maybe a couple bras?
[ 4 ] Skinny Jeans ($80):: Because no one likes trying to tuck bell-bottoms into boots.
[ 5 ] Field Jacket ($138):: I finally invested in one this year, and it may or may not be the sole reason I’m [getting] excited for fall. Perfect weight before it’s really time to bring out those peacoats.
[ 6 ] Trench Coat ($128):: Same-ish weight as a field coat, but necessary for those wet days that are upon us.
[ 7 ] Boyfriend Blazer ($118):: Basically I just want to pair these with crisp button-downs + brogues and pretend I’m heading back to university in Oxford.
[ 8 ] Leather Tote ($188):: Is it just me, or do you carry a lot more stuff with you when the seasons change? An extra scarf… gloves… flask…?
(kidding, mom).
[ 9 ] Puffer Vest ($78):: I know these are becoming about as basic as Pumpkin Spice Lattes and yoga pants but you have to admit how perfect they are for layering. Here’s a great budget option!
[ 10 ] White Tee ($15):: Is there a season I don’t reach for my white tees 3+ times a week?
[ 11 ] Black Booties ($198):: The only “heels” I wear in the winter. A big day–>night shoe in my closet.
[ 12 ] Shirtdress ($90 + 40% off):: These are the best transition pieces– wear them on their own with flats right now, and a month down the line add tights, boots, and a vest or pullover sweater.
[ 13 ] Fisherman Sweater ($36):: I like pullover fisherman sweaters because they’re usually heavy enough to keep you warm in the autumn chill, but thin enough to layer under field jackets, et al.
[ 14 ] LBD ($199):: Because, let’s be honest, you need one for every season. And hi, SCALLOPS.

Tell me, what’s in YOUR fall wardrobe?