How to Style Fall Wardrobe Basics
Are you tired of opening your closet every morning only to be greeted by a sea of dull and uninspiring outfits? It's a common problem that many of us face. We invest in classic wardrobe staples because they're supposed to be versatile, timeless, and reliable. But somehow, they can end up making us look boring and lackluster. Well, fear not! I have a solution to transform your wardrobe staples from drab to fab. Today, I thought we’d talk about the secrets to styling those basic pieces in ways that will make heads turn and leave a lasting impression, with How to Style Fall Wardrobe Basics.
But before we dive into the world of fashion-forward transformations, it's important to understand the true power of wardrobe basics. These foundational pieces form the backbone of your wardrobe - the timeless essentials that never go out of style. They are the blank canvas on which you will paint your stunning outfit masterpieces. Since it’s fall I will focus on my favorite fall wardrobe basics.
TL;DR
Beth shares her tips and tricks for getting the most out of your fall wardrobe basics
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How to Style Fall Wardrobe Basics
Boots and Booties
Look for boots in classic suede or leather. Opt for neutral tones that can go with any ensemble. Ankle boots pair well with all kinds of fall outfits, from casual to dressy. Try different heel types and heights, like block or stiletto styles.
Denim
Fall is denim's time to shine. Denim adds warmth in cooler temps while remaining timelessly stylish. Consider dark-wash denim or black jeans. Relaxed, high-waist cuts look great on any body type. To create the illusion of longer legs, go for a slim-fit style. Tuck skinny jeans into knee-high boots for an effortlessly chic look.
Sweaters and Cardigans
With so many styles, colors and textures to choose from, you're sure to find an array of sweaters and cardigans to pair with any fall outfit in your closet. There's nothing better than a cozy, chunky knit—it's a fashion staple. A cardigan is often thin enough to wear under a jacket. For a nice dinner out, wrap a cashmere style around your shoulders. Feminine details like ribbon ties and pointelle stitching add a touch of charm. Invest in a variety of materials, from breathable cotton to warm wool to a supersoft alpaca blend. Turtlenecks are the epitome of timeless style for your fall capsule wardrobe.
To maximize potential outfit pairings, choose turtlenecks in neutrals like black, brown and grey. Try mock, cowl and funnel styles for a less traditional look. Look for a range of fabrics, from chunky knits to luxurious cashmere.
A black turtleneck or crewneck is one my favorite cold-weather wardrobe basics. If you want to make your black sweater pop, try it with white jeans. I like to make the look feel cohesive with black shoes or black booties and a black bag. Or black on black is a simple, timeless look I gravitate toward in the colder seasons because it’s so easy! Pair your favorite black jeans or black trousers with a black turtleneck (I try to make sure the shades are similar), then add interest with a colorful or textured coat, boots or loafers are an easy choice and add chic accessories to add personality to your outfit.
Layering Tops
Layering is a sartorial art that's easy to master and offers a simple way to change up your look. Make sure you have classic tees to layer under cardigans and blazers. Long-sleeve shirts in basic colors like black and white provide extra warmth in cooler climates. A crisp white button-down shirt is a classic choice that's easy to layer.
Classic Tees | Cotton Poplin Long Sleeve Shirt | White Button Down
Trousers and Pants
When denim is too informal or not warm enough, opt for slacks or trousers that flatter your body type and personal style. Look for thick fabrics like wool, tweed and corduroy. Go all out with checkered prints, pleats, tartan or houndstooth. Black pants should be a staple in any fall closet.
Sweater Dresses
A sweater dress makes it easy to add a dash of glamour while staying warm and cozy.
Try a variety of fabrics, such as cotton, cashmere, alpaca, and wool. Pair sweater dresses with fall fashion pieces like leather or faux-leather leggings
Fashion Sneakers
A cute pair of sneakers offers style, versatility and supreme comfort. Sneakers are ideal when you want a break from your ankle boots but still want to look fashionable. A pair of chic sneakers can take you from game day to girls' night out without a breather—or bandages for blisters.
Identifying Your Wardrobe Staples
Identifying your wardrobe staples is a crucial step in curating a functional and stylish closet. Start by assessing your lifestyle and personal preferences. Consider the activities you engage in regularly and the type of clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable. These insights will help you determine the staple pieces that suit your individual style.
When selecting wardrobe staples, look for items that can be easily mixed and matched with other pieces in your closet. Versatility is key here. A well-fitted pair of jeans, a tailored blazer, a versatile black dress, and a classic white shirt are just a few examples of timeless wardrobe staples that can be effortlessly combined with other garments to create endless possibilities. These pieces will serve as the foundation, allowing you to create a range of stylish and cohesive outfits.
Mixing and Matching for Endless Possibilities
Remember, the possibilities are truly endless when it comes to mixing and matching your wardrobe staples. The key is to combine them in new and unexpected ways, allowing your creativity to shine through. By mastering the art of mixing and matching, you'll always have fresh and exciting outfits at your fingertips.
Experimenting with Colors and Prints
Colors and prints have the power to transform even the most basic wardrobe staples into eye-catching ensembles. Instead of always relying on your standard neutrals, why not venture into the spectrum of vibrant hues? Add a playful touch to your button-down shirt by tucking it into a pair of polka dot pants or opt for a striped blazer to jazz up your everyday denim.
When experimenting with colors and prints, it's important to strike a balance between boldness and cohesiveness. If you're going for a colorful or patterned top, opt for a more subdued bottom to keep the focus on the statement piece. On the other hand, if you choose a bold bottom, pair it with a neutral top to create a harmonious look. Remember, the key is to create a visual interest while still maintaining a sense of balance.
Don't shy away from mixing prints either. Recently, I sported this striped tee with a plaid blazer to create a fashion-forward outfit. Just be sure to keep one print larger and bolder than the other to avoid overwhelming the look. Talbots does a great job of offering printed separates that are perfect for pattern-mixing
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Love the Lee Radziwill purse.
Beth, is it true that we shouldn’t wear black if we are of a certain age?! I am 86 and have been wearing black occasionally (turtlenecks, tees, etc.). Yes, I have white hair, but hate to think that black is aging me, making me look older than I am. I am proud and lucky to be 86 but don’t really want to look like an old crone!
Love that red coat.. Looks amazing……. I have one that have not worn forever and thinking that must wear it next winter as I live in Australia and maybe could juz it up a bit……