With university in full swing and the weather having a mind of its own, stepping back into autumn in style can be a challenge. That’s why having a capsule wardrobe is beneficial and saves time when deciding what to wear. A capsule wardrobe is a collection of timeless pieces that are versatile, and are usually items that many people already own. Below is a list of the top ten classic items for fall that anyone can wear:
- Crew neck T-shirts: A round neck T-shirt is a classic piece that flatters most figures and is a great layering piece worn underneath a heavier shirt during the fall or on its own during warmer weather. For the most versatility, owning a few white and black options in your closet is ideal. For more variety, autumnal hues such as browns, reds and yellows are popular this season.
- Denim jeans: Jeans are a cornerstone in a student’s wardrobe because they are comfortable, laid back, and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Having an assortment in darker shades such as indigo and black are great options for autumn and can be dressed up with a blazer or paired down with a hoodie for a more casual look.
Iryna Presley / The Cascade - A belt: wearing a simple brown or black belt can add waves to an outfit and comes in several options and styles that can suit everyone. Belts can help add a more put together look to an outfit without making it look busy or sloppy. Investing in a good quality belt doesn’t need to be expensive, and can be purchased from a local thrift store to be more sustainable both environmentally and financially.
- A sweater: A classic V-neck wool or faux-wool sweater is both a good layering piece and a smart alternative to a sweatshirt. This piece can come in several different patterns or solid colours and many people already have a few in their wardrobes. Wearing a sweater is a warm cozy option to keep out the cold, and it looks good layered underneath a coat. The most classic options — cashmere, cable knit, wool, and striped sweaters — can go with many outfits.
Iryna Presley / The Cascade - Button down shirts: A crisp button down shirt can dress up any outfit, and adds class to one’s style. A white button down shirt looks great under a blazer and jeans, a suit, or a V-neck sweater, and can be paired with khakis and loafers. Button downs come in many colours, including black, grey, light blue, and checkered. Flannel is a great choice of material for this season.
- A blazer: Even if suits are not a regular part of your day-to-day wear, owning a blazer that fits very well can help dress up an outfit during an interview or a presentation. Wearing a blazer with jeans and a light sweater or a button down shirt is another good layering idea for the fall. It is another capsule piece that helps to create versatility in your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
- Vests: A suit vest is a popular style in the fall and can also be a perfect layering piece. Other types of vests can help you stay warm and comfortable through the transitional weather in autumn and add style to your wardrobe. A down-filled vest is great for keeping out the wind and a knit version is warm and cozy to wear inside.
- Scarves: a cosy, warm scarf in a solid colour or a nice pattern can help keep out the chill and is a great item that everyone has in their closet. Having a scarf in a nice bright or fall colour can help spruce up a plain outfit, and can add dimension to your look without trying too hard. Blanket scarves are a popular style this autumn and are thick and cozy for the cool weather.
- A classic coat: having a versatile classic coat like a trench coat is one that you can wear with both dressy and casual outfits that can be worn most of the year. As the cold weather settles in, wearing a wool or faux-wool coat are warmer alternatives that also go with a multitude of outfits.
- Cardigans: A cardigan is another cozy warm style that many people have in their wardrobes. They are perfect for layering and can be used as a substitute for a coat, worn on top of a shirt, and under a blazer. Cardigans come in a variety of hues, styles and shapes that do not go out of style.
As the fall semester continues, check your closet to see what items you have to help create a capsule wardrobe and look put together on campus!
Rachel is working towards a BA with a concentration in English and Theatre. She has been employed at The Cascade since Fall 2021 as a Staff Writer and a Jr. News Editor. Currently, she is the sectional News Editor and enjoys meeting and interviewing people as well as taking long walks in nature. Rachel also likes to stay up to date on the latest trends and informs students through her fashion column entitled Campus Fashion.
