How to Assemble the Ultimate Autumn Capsule Wardrobe 2024

Ah, autumn! The season of pumpkin spice everything, crisp walks under canopies of golden leaves, and, of course, the excuse to revamp your wardrobe. It’s time to trade in those sandals and sundresses for layers, knits, and cosy vibes. But instead of filling your closet to the brim, let’s keep it simple and stylish by curating the perfect autumn capsule wardrobe. 

1. The Basic (But Never Boring) Base Layers

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Let’s be real—base layers are the unsung heroes of every autumn outfit. These are your trusty, understated sidekicks that set the stage so your more statement pieces can pop off with autumn abandon. Picture sleek, fitted turtlenecks, long-sleeved shirts and bodysuits that are comfy enough for lounging but chic enough for that spontaneous apple-picking Instagram photo.

• Best Friends Forever Colors: White, black, grey, beige—these shades will play nice with everything in your wardrobe
• Fabric Love: Opt for soft cotton or a hint of cashmere if you want to feel fancy without actually trying.

Pro Tip: In our book, stripes are totally a neutral and can add a little pizazz to your block colour bases 

2.Sweater Weather, Baby!

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Autumn without sweaters is like Halloween without pumpkin carving —unacceptable! The perfect autumn capsule wardrobe needs knitwear, and we’re talking the good stuff. A couple of chunky cardigans, a classic crewneck, and a slouchy oversized sweater are non-negotiable. They’re the clothing equivalent of a warm hug after a long day.

• Must-Have Styles: Cable-knit, turtlenecks, and slightly oversized pullovers that scream "I woke up like this... but also, I spent time curating my effortless look."
• Colour Crushes: Rust, mustard, olive green, and burgundy. Basically, dress like a ephemeral autumn leaf, and you’re golden (literally).

Pro Tip: You will wear your warmest jumper more than your most stylish one, so make sure you choose one in a versatile print or colour-way. You’ll thank me later.

3. Denim Delights 

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A good pair of jeans is an autumn essential. Dark-wash, high-waisted jeans are flattering, comfy, and versatile. Pair them with knee high boots, a tucked-in statement shirt and a vintage trench coat for effortless chic. We also adore some straight cut ankle grazers with a retro patterned cardi and some loafers with socks. Chef’s kiss. 

• Styles to Rock: Indie sleaze is having a moment, so you might as well dig out your skinny jeans and have some fun! We are also into straight-leg for a little retro chic, and boyfriend jeans for those days when comfort is key.
• Color Code: Dark wash, black, or even a bottle green or rich burgundy if you’re feeling bold.

Pro Tip: Find jeans that you can wear from brunch to bonfire without needing to change. Trust us—it’s going to be too cold for you to want to be changing outfits soon! 

4. Practical Outerwear 

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We’ve all been there—caught in the endless fall drizzle looking more drowned rat than city slicker, despite our best intentions. Not this year! The perfect autumn capsule wardrobe requires outerwear that’s stylish and weather-ready. A classic blazer will instantly make you look like you’ve got your life together (even if you spilled coffee on yourself earlier) and always looks fab with an umbrella, but if you’re the sort of gal who always leaves your umbrella on the tube, we recommend investing in a proper rain coat. Go on, get a yellow one, it’s timeless. 

• Key Coats: Camel trench, sleek blazer, a big yellow raincoat and a well-worn leather jacket for those moody fall days.
• Colours to Cuddle Up With: Camel, black, and olive green are forever cool, but if you want to stand out, a statement coat in a bright colour or graphic pattern will turn heads.

Pro Tip: Make sure your outerwear looks great when unfastened to make the most of your carefully planned capsule creations. 

5. Footwear: The Boot Edit

I’ve always been a boots aficionado and autumn is time to showcase them in all their glory. Stomp around in some big platforms before the winter slip hazards become a recipe for snapped ankles and be bold in some sleek knee-highs for evening wear. 

• Kick It in These: Black leather ankle boots for the win and a pair of knee-high boots for extra drama.
• Bonus Points for: A pair of cute sneakers because, let’s face it, we’re not always stomping through leaves—sometimes we’re just running errands.

Pro Tip: Waterproof your boots ASAP. Fall weather is unpredictable, and nothing ruins an outfit (or your mood) faster than soggy feet.

6. Warm, Layerable Dresses

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While autumn is often thought of as sweater season, dresses are still a key part of a capsule wardrobe. Opt for long-sleeve or knit dresses that can be layered with tights, boots, and coats for an effortless, pulled-together look. We are loving statement tights this year and would really recommend perusing the sustainable, inclusively sized options at Snag. Who knows what they do to make them so ladder-proof and buttery soft, but I am here for it. 

• Best Bets: long sleeves, midi length , cheeky minis, and anything that twirls in the autumn breeze.
• Pattern Power: Plaid, leopard print, or solid colours like burnt orange or forest green.