It might not be as exciting as, say, a suede mini skirt or a pair of silver-studded boots, but that one plain white t-shirt you own probably gets more play than anything else in your closet. That’s the thing with versatile items — they prove their worth through the sheer number of times you wear them. We’d even argue that those more exciting pieces wouldn’t be wearable without the basic ones. They’re the wardrobe workhorses you can pair with anything and rely on for any season, occasion, or mood.
That being said, basic does not have to mean boring. This fall, we’re looking to those highly wearable pieces to make up our capsule wardrobe, but specifically ones that bring a fresh twist or on-trend take — like a gray cardigan with an hourglass silhouette or a pair of cargo pants in an elevated wide-leg cut. Consider them versatile and exciting.
Cargo Pants
Cargo pants are the ideal middle ground between jeans and trousers — more comfortable than the former but not as dressy as the latter. They’re a no-brainer for casual looks, but the right pair can be dressed up, too. These Theory pants have a wide-leg cut and structured cotton fabrication, giving them a more refined look and elevated feel. Wear them with sneakers or loafers during the day and heels at night.
Leather Jacket
Every capsule wardrobe needs a leather jacket, but if you’re in the market for an updated one to wear this season, opt for a relaxed, slightly oversized silhouette in a chocolate brown leather. It’s still a neutral, but adds just a hint of dimension to your cold-weather looks.
Off-the-Shoulder Top
Need a fall-friendly version of a going-out top? This one is it. The styling ideas are endless: Pair it with a short leather skirt for a concert, team it with trousers for a work event or cocktail party, or throw it on with high-waisted jeans for date night or a family get-together. While you could opt for black or white, this plum color makes a subtle statement.
Tweed Mini Dress
You’d be surprised at how many ways you can wear a sleeveless shift dress — on its own, over a thin turtleneck, under a cropped sweater. This one is made in a luxurious tweed that feels appropriately collegiate for fall.
Leather Loafers
A pair of leather loafers will be the most wearable shoes in your wardrobe this fall. Not only can they be worn with or without socks, but for even more styling options, this specific pair can also be worn with the back up for a traditional look or flattened to look like slide-on mules.
Slip Skirt
Silky slip skirts have long maintained their spot on the capsule wardrobe must-have list thanks to their versatility. For a more on-trend option this season, try one edged in lace for a vintage-inspired look and in an autumnal hue like olive, marigold, brown, or maroon.
Cardigan
With its subtle hourglass silhouette, this cardigan is like a knit blazer, but arguably even more wearable. Thanks to the structured shape and elevated bell sleeves, it looks great worn buttoned up as a top over pants and skirts, or you can wear it unbuttoned as a layering piece over tops and dresses.
Barrel-Leg Jeans
For a pair of jeans you’ll want to wear on repeat, look to the barrel leg, the universally flattering shape that somehow goes with everything. For maximum versatility, this pair has a subtle curve unlike the more dramatic silhouettes on the market, with a relaxed fit and lived-in wash.
Suede Shirt
This sumptuous suede shirt is like the fall 2024 version of your favorite button-down shirt. Use it as a light layer over tees and tanks now and worn buttoned-up over a thin turtleneck or under a coat later.
Turtleneck Bodysuit
Speaking of turtlenecks, it’s time to trade your tees for their cold weather counterparts. This bodysuit is going to become your go-to layering piece all season long. The extra long sleeves means you can pull them down to cover your fingers or wear them scrunched up around your wrists for a stacked look.
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