With the arrival of a new season comes the realization that your seasonal wardrobe has plenty of holes to fill. A well-curated autumn capsule wardrobe can provide the foundation for stylish, practical outfits with the flexibility to create a variety of looks for cozy evenings, rainy days, and more.
So we enlisted 10 fashion experts to find the most versatile pieces to mix and match (all under $50). From classic chunky loafers to chic yet timeless tweed blazers, these pieces are as flattering as they are practical. Scroll down to see the stylist-approved wardrobe essentials you can reuse all season long.
Stylist-approved fall capsule wardrobe essentials
Dream Pair Chunky Loafers
Amazon
“Having a comfortable staple shoe for fall eliminates all that morning ‘how do I put this together?’ confusion,” Emmy Award-winning designer Brenda Cooper tells Real Simple. “Plus, it saves you time so you can head out the door feeling confident, comfortable, and put together in just a few minutes. There are so many ways to outfit this classic, modern shoe for a stunning look. Try pairing it with a plain box-pleated skirt or a plaid skirt, a turtleneck, and a great blazer.” She suggests opting for “black patent leather shoes for a bit more flair, or black and white Spectator loafers for a more retro look.”
Sidefeel Wide Leg Jeans
Amazon
According to Cooper, you can’t go wrong having a pair of wide-leg pants in your closet this coming season. She loves them because, “They’re comfortable, they’re a great way to break away from tight, form-fitting clothing like skinny jeans or leggings, and they add both casual and dressy elegance to any outfit.” She suggests pairing them with anything, from white sneakers for a “stylish, casual look” to high-heeled pumps for a more “sexy, elegant” look. “I grew up wearing wide-leg pants in the 1990s and I’m so happy they’re back. They’re a staple for me today and in the future!”
Hoxis oversized vegan leather tote
Amazon
It’s time to turn your attention to accessories. Amy Acton, expert stylist and CEO of Acton Style Group, says, “Including a tote bag in your fall capsule wardrobe is like adding pumpkin spice to your latte: it makes everything better. Not only is it the perfect blend of style and function, it’s also your trusty companion to carry all the essentials you need for those crisp days of fall. From cozy scarves to unexpected finds at the farmer’s market, with this bag you’ll never be accused of carrying too much.”
Happy Sail Tweed Blazer
Amazon
Acton also stresses the importance of outerwear: “A tweed blazer in a rich, fall color is more than just an article of clothing; it’s an effortlessly sophisticated piece. Whether you’re heading to the office or meeting friends for brunch, this blazer will instantly transform your outfit from ‘I just woke up’ to ‘life is pretty much OK’. Plus, tweed is timeless; throw it on over jeans, a dress or joggers for a smart, stylish look.”
Ykr Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater
Amazon
Personal stylist Bobbi Schwartz would start your fall capsule wardrobe with a loose turtleneck sweater. “Worn with the collar turned up for a chic high-neck look, which is one of the hottest trends this season,” she says. “For a look that’s flattering, opt for a tunic-length silhouette. When building a casual capsule wardrobe, the key to success is simple, understated pieces like these. Warm neutral colors will add a sense of richness to your outfits in fall.”
Dream Pair Ankle Boots
Amazon
Don’t forget your trusty ankle boots. “Pointed toes are timeless and arguably sexier and chicer than rounded toes,” explains Schwartz. “Plus, suede adds a touch of luxury to your look that smooth leather just can’t match. Pair a pointed toe with the drape and fullness of wide-leg jeans for a dramatic look that’ll have people asking about your style all day.”
Meloquity oversized crew neck sweater
Amazon
“This versatile top comes in a variety of colors and patterns, so there’s something to suit every taste,” raves James Firestein, founder of OpenLuxury and luxury designer expert. “It’s made from a soft, stretchy material that hugs your body nicely. I love pairing it with leggings or skinny jeans and boots for a casual daytime look, or you can dress it up with heels and some statement jewelry for a night out. Plus, at under $50, it’s a bargain for a top you’ll wear on repeat all season.”
Kate Cashin faux-leather wrap midi skirt
Amazon
Texture is key this season, which is why fashion designer Juanita Carmet says you should include leather skirts in your fall collection. “One of the things I really love about this year’s liquid skirt trend is that fall’s leatherwear options are in much more fluid shapes, allowing for innovative designs. The smooth material is very flexible, comfortable, and stylish. This leather skirt trend works equally well with casual outfits like oversized sweaters and more formal pieces like long-sleeved button-down blouses.”
Nanjun double-breasted trench coat
Amazon
“Trench coats are classic, lightweight, protective and can elevate any look. They’re sophisticated enough for professional occasions, but casual enough for everyday wear,” says stylist Sharon Warten. “Whether you’re heading to the office or just running errands, a trench coat will make you look polished. Plus, it’s timeless, which is why it’s one of my perennial favorites.”
Kunlin Satin Blouse
Amazon
Say hello to one of our most versatile pieces. “It’s a luxe take on the classic white button-down shirt that’s so popular in the summer,” says stylist Celeste Renee. “The slightly heavier fabric gives it a sophisticated feel that’s perfect for cooler fall weather. Plus, the top’s neutral color and versatility make it ideal; you can wear it dressed up (with a maxi skirt and slingback heels) or casual (with jeans and loafers). Overall, it’s a fall staple.”
Meloquity shirred jacket
Amazon
“Are you ready to play with texture this fall?” asks Renee. “A shearling jacket will add a cozy and luxurious element to your fall wardrobe. The soft, fluffy lining will provide warmth and add depth and interest to your outfit. Long black coats are the norm in the cooler months, so mix it up with a cropped neutral.”
Naspery Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Shirt
Amazon
Author and fashion expert Dawn Del Russo advocates starting with wardrobe basics. “Embrace the minimalist trend this fall and add a long-sleeved black top to your closet,” she recommends. “It’s the perfect base for countless outfits. Layer it under a blazer, sweater, or jacket for added warmth and style, or wear it on its own with denim for a night out. Ivory tailored trousers would look stylish paired with this top.”
Mgwdt Oxford shirt
Amazon
“A blue striped button-down blouse is a versatile piece that can easily be worn casually or dressed up,” adds Del Russo. “Its classic design makes it a must-have staple for any capsule wardrobe. Layer it over a turtleneck for extra warmth in cooler months, or pair it with tailored black trousers for a work look. Team it with jeans and ankle boots for a casual-chic ensemble. Add some gold or silver accessories to change up the look.”
Mango Pop Mock Turtleneck Bodysuit
Amazon
“These bodysuits are perfect for layering as the seasons change,” says personal stylist Jaquelyn Wahidi. “Choose shades of black, white, or burgundy. You can layer them under denim dresses, blazers, and more. I use them to create a barrier between my sensitive skin and an itchy sweater. Have that amazing wool or cashmere knit you couldn’t resist wearing? “She says adding just one of these underneath will give you “both visual interest and functional comfort.”
Fantastic sweater vest
Amazon
A sweater vest is another versatile layer to wear all season long. Lana Ashby Rowder, founder and personal stylist at LookingGlass, loves that this vest is an “unprecedented blend of comfort and style.” She says, “With its classic V-neck design and soft knit fabric, this sleeveless vest is perfect for layering over a blouse or t-shirt, adding warmth without the bulk. The cardigan-like design of the sweater vest brings a chic, preppy vibe to any outfit and is perfect for casual or semi-formal wear. Whether you dress it up with tailored pants or keep it casual with jeans, this knit sweater vest is sure to become a wardrobe staple for your fall/winter collection.”
Amazon Essentials Block Heel Mules
Amazon
Also, consider swapping out your sandals for textured, chunky mules. Lowder says these open-toed, block-heeled shoes are “perfect for fall. They offer more coverage than a regular sandal, making them a great transition into cooler weather. The open-toe design makes them breathable and comfortable. The block heel adds just the right amount of height for a flattering look, but is sturdy enough to be worn all day without discomfort.”
PrettyGarden Classic Knit Cardigan
Amazon
Lauder is a big believer in having a go-to cardigan that you’ll want to wear again and again. “I love this cardigan because it feels like your favorite sweater, but is elegant and sophisticated enough to wear to the office,” she explains. “Throw it over a simple t-shirt or bodysuit and it takes your look up five notches!”