How to Build a Fall Capsule Wardrobe With Pieces You'll Actually Wear

Creating a fall capsule wardrobe is super helpful when getting dressed each morning. So, I set myself a little challenge. If I could only have 26 pieces in my wardrobe this fall, what would they be?


Take a look at what I came up with: the ultimate style guide for fall capsule wardrobe essentials! Follow this tutorial to learn how to build a capsule wardrobe for fall based on your own style.

White bodycon dress with heels

1 Bodycon dress

First, I chose a versatile bodycon dress in white. This dress can transition from summer to fall, it works dressed up or dressed down, and can be styled in so many different ways.


Read my previous tutorial on How to Style a Bodycon Dress in 10 Different Ways for some outfit ideas.

White bodycon dress with a striped sweater

I can match this dress with a cozy knit sweater and different shoes to take it from formal to casual.


Select pieces based on how often you reach for them. I only have one dress in my fall capsule wardrobe, but I love it and I know I'll be wearing it a lot.

Long cardigan over a brown pencil skirt

2 Cardigans

Cardigans are great for when the weather gets cooler or is changeable. Grab a couple of neutral-colored knits and layer them over your jeans or dresses. 

Styling a trendy peacock blue cardigan

This peacock blue cardigan adds a pop of color to my fall capsule wardrobe.


Bright colors are really in this season, but I prefer choosing neutral pieces for my fall capsule wardrobe that easily go together. Only include an on-trend piece if it's truly your style and you know it will go with the rest of your wardrobe - otherwise, you'll never wear it.

Cream cut-out sweater for fall

3 Sweaters

The cut-out fashion trend is here and what better way to give it a nod with a lovely sweater? 

Cozy black hoodie with a white silk skirt

I also have a big fluffy (and cozy) sweater for colder days.

Striped Breton-style top for fall

Stripes are everywhere right now, but stripes are not just a trend; they are also a very classic look.


For more information on styling stripey tops like this, read my tutorial on 10 Classic Breton Top Outfits for Your Inner French Woman.

Leather pants with a blue cardigan

2 Pairs of pants

The two pairs of pants on my fall capsule wardrobe checklist are leather skinny pants and high-waisted tapered dress pants.

Tapered dressed pants with an oversized shirt

I chose very basic colors, such as black and navy, so they mix nicely with other items in my wardrobe. 

Trendy flared jeans for fall

2 Pairs of jeans

As far as jeans are concerned, something a little loose and baggy is the in-thing this season. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but It’s something to consider. This pair is really comfy.

Skinny jeans outfit for fall

For those who are not fond of the flare, skinny jeans never disappoint and I have them as part of my fall capsule wardrobe, too.

How to build a capsule wardrobe for fall

2 Button-down shirts

A couple of classic shirts will always be your best friends. I prefer mine a little oversized, so I can knot them or tuck them in.

Fall capsule wardrobe essentials

1 White t-shirt

When it comes to staple tops, a classic white t-shirt is a must!

Fall capsule wardrobe checklist

2 Blouses

I also opted for this warm chocolate top, which pairs really nicely with jeans and my brown skirt for a co-ord look. 

Brown silk blouse with dress pants

I also love this silk blouse. It looks very luxurious; the fit and color are very flattering. You could wear it out to dinner or to work.

Staple fall capsule wardrobe ideas

1 Camisole

A cami is another staple. This white cami is perfect for layering under a cardigan or blazer. You can pair it with jeans and heels for a smart-casual evening look.

Long silk skirt in white

3 Skirts

I chose three skirts for my fall capsule wardrobe and they're all very different. First, I have this gorgeous maxi silk skirt, which I like to dress up or down for a funky high-low look.

Warm chocolate brown pencil skirt

Next is this warm chocolate brown pencil skirt in cotton. This neutral skirt can go with pretty much anything.

All-black outfit for fall

Finally, I have a faux leather mini that works really well with black tights and boots.


The three different sizes, colors, fabrics, and silhouettes mean that I'm covered for any occasion.

Neutral blazer for a fall capsule wardrobe

1 Blazer

I love blazers, but for this minimalist fall capsule wardrobe, I decided to go for one blazer in this lovely neutral tone.


By switching your shoes, you can go from casual to elegant wearing the same blazer. Here, I’m wearing a pair of loafers.

Blazer with ankle boots

3 Pairs of shoes

In this outfit, I switched my loafers to a pair of ankle boots. Can you see the difference? Suddenly the whole outfit feels edgier. 

Blazer outfit with heels and a coat

Here, I went for a pair of neutral heels and draped my coat over my shoulders. Very simple styling touches make a world of difference. 

Black purse for a fall capsule wardrobe

2 Purses

As for purses, I kept them neutral so they could pretty much go with my entire wardrobe. Here, I have a black faux-leather bag. 

Square dual-tone shoulder bag in camel

For a little extra sprinkle of camel, I opted for this square dual-tone shoulder bag. 

Long coat for a fall capsule wardrobe

1 Coat

Finally, I included this gorgeous long coat. For winter, I would include more outerwear like this, but for autumn, I think this one coat covers everything I need.


Fall capsule wardrobe tutorial

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial on how to build a fall capsule wardrobe. With just 26 items, I've created lots of different outfits, and the ones shared here are just the tip of the iceberg.


Let me know which pieces you'll be including in your fall capsule wardrobe in the comments below.

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