Today I thought I’d share a helpful little checklist of staple items to have in your fall wardrobe this season. If you want to be as stylish as possible but still stick to a budget (purchasing the minimum number of items) then perhaps this post will help! I’ve always liked the idea of attempting a “capsule wardrobe” which is, essentially, a specific number (around 30) of staple items in your closet that can be mixed and matched enough ways that it can supplement a full season’s worth of outfits.
I’m a big fan of the whole minimalist mindset and cutting down on as much clutter as possible. I’ve got a long way to go with cutting back on clothes in my closet, but I thought I’d try a little experiment this season with the whole “capsule wardrobe” concept and choose around 30-40 essential pieces from which to create outfits from.
Okay, so here we go, below is the checklist I’ve come up with of essential clothing/accessory pieces that I think can provide the foundational building blocks for an incredibly versatile (and chic AF) fall 2020 capsule wardrobe.
P.S. Example outfit combinations for mixing and matching the items on this list to come next week via my Instagram, LIKEtoKNOW.it and here on my blog.
OUTERWEAR
1. Leather Moto Jacket –
It adds a touch of edginess to an outfit.
2. Classic Camel Trench Coat –
A timeless coat that adds an effortlessly chic element. It can transform even the most frumpy of outfits.
3. Statement Coat –
It will enhance your outfits by bringing interest and flair to them. To be considered a “statement” coat, it doesn’t have to overly loud, just unexpected enough that it catches people’s attention AKA “makes a statement”. For example, it could be in a fun print (like houndstooth or plaid), be extra-puffy and padded, or come in an unexpected/attention-catching texture (like faux-fur or leather).
4. Oversized Denim Jacket –
The perfect layering staple for casual outfits and milder fall temperatures.
5. Oversized Blazer –
An easy, versatile layer that adds a chic sophistication to any look. This season, the “oversized/baggy” fit is most popular.
6. Shacket –
This is a relatively new outerwear trend. It straddles the boundary between a shirt and a jacket, hence the name “shacket”. I almost left this out as it’s a relatively new trend and not exactly a common outerwear “staple”. But honestly, it’s SO popular at the moment that I couldn’t NOT include it in this 2020 wardrobe essentials checklist.
TOPS
7. Classic White Button-Up –
This structured long-sleeve top lends itself to a classic, Parisian kind of vibe and adds a chic, sophisticated touch.
8. Black Fitted Turtleneck –
This is perhaps the MOST essential layering staple to have in your fall wardrobe. You’ll get a TON of use out of it and it always manages to look polished and chic.
9. Oversized Turtleneck Sweater –
It’s just necessary. It’s cozy, stylish, and can be worn a million different ways.
10. Plaid/Check Flannel –
Plaid is pretty much always considered an “it” print during the fall season, so, this button-up flannel is kind of a given.
11. Plain Neutral T-Shirts and Bodysuits –
Having a few different options to work with in this category is best. If you only buy one, make it a plain, basic white tee (I prefer my white tees slightly boxy and oversized). However, feel free to include a handful of plain t-shirts and bodysuits in your fall wardrobe in whatever style, fit, neckline, etc., that you choose. Just make sure you stick to neutral-ish shades to ensure they’ll pair well with the other items on your capsule wardrobe checklist.
12. Chunky Knit Oversized Cardigan(s) –
What screams fall more than an oversized knit cardigan? That’s right, nothing. Obviously, this is a fall MUST-HAVE. It’s great for layering and gives off uber-cozy vibes. Again, this season’s cardigan is most popular in an oversized fit.
13. Loose Oversized Crewneck Sweater –
And, AGAIN, with the “oversized” trend. Having a basic, loose-fitting sweater (in any color) in your fall lineup is just necessary.
14. Knit Sweater Vest –
Yet another item that’s specific to this particular 2020 season. At the moment, the knit sweater vest is trending (BIG TIME) and it adds major 70’s vibes to an outfit. You probably could have already guessed that an oversized fit is most popular.
BOTTOMS
15. Baggy (Loose-Fit) 90’s Jeans –
This season’s newest “it” style of denim has an extra slouchy, extra-loose, high-waisted fit that’s super relaxed and gives off major 90’s vibes. They can look super chic with a pair of heels/pumps but can also pair perfectly with chunky white sneakers.
16. Straight-Leg (High-waist) Jeans –
Definitely the most popular fit and style of jeans to wear right now. They’ve replaced the skinny-leg jeans from past seasons but they’re just as versatile, if not more so. They’ve got a classic vibe to them and are essential for a fall 2020 wardrobe.
17. Black Denim Jeans –
Another common fall wardrobe staple. A pair of plain black denim jeans are a must. Feel free to choose your preferred style, fit, length, and amount of distressing. I like mine in a straight-leg style, ankle-length fit, and at least some level of distressing.
18. Wide-Leg Trousers –
A sophisticated, timeless pair of bottoms that can be styled many different ways. (For example, with a black fitted turtleneck and a trench coat and/or with an oversized knit sweater and sneakers.). Try a pair in a tan or brown color, both are very popular color choices for the fall 2020 season.
19. Dark Floral or Animal Print Skirt –
Both dark florals and animal prints are popular patterns this fall, so choose a skirt in one of the two prints. It’ll be perfect for mixing and matching with the rest of your capsule wardrobe choices. Choose a midi-length skirt for maximum versatility.
20. Black Leggings –
The easiest, comfiest, most casual bottoms to have in your closet are black leggings. I like to have two options here: a comfy lounging pair and an edgy, {faux} leather pair for dressing up.
21. Slouchy “Boyfriend” Joggers –
The latest obsession with wearing athleisurewear as a casual, everyday outfit has legit become a fashion trend this season. Consider purchasing a thick, high-quality pair of joggers (or two) for your fall capsule wardrobe. Trust me, you’re going to be wearing them a lot, both at-home and out and about.
DRESSES
22. Sweater Dress –
My favorite staple dress for the fall and winter season. It’s perfect for both casual and dressy events.
23. Puff-Sleeve Dress –
This is hands-down the “it” sleeve of the season. Try it out on a dress for the fall for an uber-stylish look/outfit.
24. Shirt Dress –
This is exactly what it sounds like; a shirt that’s long enough to, technically, be considered a dress. I prefer it in a classic, white button-up style, but there are a million different options/styles out there to pick from.
25. Satin Slip Dress –
These were crazy popular in the spring and summer, but that popularity has totally carried over into the fall season. Wear them with blazers and oversized jackets or layered over a long-sleeve fitted turtleneck for a temperature-appropriate outfit.
SHOES
26. Classic Dad Sneakers –
A classic white sneaker with an overall chunkier fit and/or a platform style.
27. Chunky Combat Boots –
Quite possibly the most popular shoe trend of 2020. These chunky boots bring an edgy vibe and can transform even the most dressy of outfits into casual, every day looks.
28. Ankle Booties –
These are consistently a ‘go-to’ fall shoe trend, year after year. It just makes sense to have a pair in your lineup this season.
29. Knee-High Heeled Boots –
Probably my #1 shoe of choice at the moment. Specifically, knee-high faux-leather boots are where it’s at right now. I love a square-toe look and am on the hunt for a pair in either tan or brown.
30. Over-the-Knee Boots –
These look uber-stylish (and are a must-have) when paired with shorter hem lengths during the fall and winter seasons.
31. Midi-Heel Pumps –
Perfect for dressier outfits and occasions where boots and booties might not be appropriate (i.e., weddings, new years eve celebrations, fancy holiday events, etc.).
32. Flats/Loafers –
A classic, sophisticated style of shoe that can be worn with anything and everything and is currently all the rage.
ACCESSORIES
33. Flat, Wide-Brim Fedora Hat –
Definitely an essential fall accessory to have in your fall 2020 wardrobe, preferably in a wool or felt fabric.
34. Crossbody Bag –
There’s literally hundreds of different options for wearing this type of bag, from a quilted crossbody to a more classic, structured crossbody purse. It’s totally up to you!
35. Chunky Chain Necklace –
Specific to this particular fall season, chunky chain necklaces are all the rage. I prefer gold, but silver is popular too.
36. Dainty Gold Layering Jewelry –
This encompasses/includes everything from necklaces, chokers, bracelets, anklets, hoop earrings, etc. Feel free to stock up on multiple dainty gold jewelry pieces for your fall 2020 capsule wardrobe.
37. Oversized Blanket Scarves –
They’re stylish, cozy, versatile and extremely necessary for the cold fall/winter temps.
38. Face Masks –
Because, duh. COVID-life.
