TRAVEL STYLE
Wardrobe basics combine to create stylish and comfortable outfits for a fall vacation
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With fall travel ahead I am planning an autumn capsule wardrobe; it simplifies packing and getting dressed while away. I also find I am happier with my outfits. In fall, I like to combine wardrobe classic, like jeans, button-ups and sweaters, and include trousers and a blazer to looks more put together, especially if I am headed to Europe, my favorite fall destination.
I am an avid traveler, but struggled with packing until I discovered the simplicity of a capsule wardrobe for travel. Now I am able to pack less and love my outfits more. I believe a capsule wardrobe can work for anyone. The right combination of pieces allows you to create a maximum number of attractive outfits with less effort.
I’ve found that buying clothes with capsule wardrobes in mind also helps me to spend less money — I invest in classic items that don’t go out of style. Hooray, more money for travel! And I wear the items regularly at home.
So, where do we start planning a wardrobe for autumn travel? I always start with a color palette, and I have created four color options to spark our imagination. The nice thing is that the wardrobe essentials in our fall wardrobe are the same regardless of the colors we choose.
Fall Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
DARK JEANS ~ TROUSERS (2) ~ BLAZER ~ CREWNECK or CARDIGAN SWEATER ~ TURTLENECK ~ BUTTON-UP SHIRT (2) ~ SILKY BLOUSE ~ T-SHIRTS ~ PEACOAT or TRENCH COAT~ SCARF ~ BELT
LOAFERS ~ SNEAKERS ~ BOOTS
Choose Your Autumn Color Palette
This is like a choose-your-own adventure story. We all have different color preferences, skin tones, and clothes hanging in our closet. Have a look at the four fall color combos below. Are you drawn to a particular one? I usually love grey, black and tan for fall, but I’ve fallen hard for blue, white and plum.
A fall color palette typically starts with a foundation of neutrals and then you have the option to layer in some color. Sticking to a color palette allows us to pack less because the items easily mix and match. It also makes it simpler to get dressed— everything goes with everything else.
Tip: If you want to explore with adding color but are nervous about going all in, try incorporating an affordable piece in a new color: a plum crewneck sweater, a mustard blouse or a green scarf. Handbags are a fantastic accent as well but can be more expensive.
For my autumn capsule wardrobe, I chose black, camel, tan and grey, and one of my trousers has a subtle houndstooth pattern. There’s also the blue in my denim, but I think of denim as a neutral; it goes with everything.
After picking my colors, I take a shopping trip to my closet; I am looking for anything I already have in my palette. I try everything on to see what fits well, and I feel good in. With those pieces as the foundation, I decide what new items I want and need to buy. I find that approach more fun and less overwhelming than buying a whole new wardrobe for fall.
If you do require a new wardrobe, consider choosing things you can wear year after year, at home and away.
I did my own closet deep dive and found I needed new boots that were both waterproof and stylish, and I could really use an affordable wool crewneck sweater, in a neutral color, either oatmeal or grey. I also wanted a new double-breasted blazer; there are so many cute ones right now — something slightly oversized for layering a sweater underneath. I ended up buying this lovely Black Knit Blazer from Loft. Great quality for the price, I highly recommend and the Quince cashmere sweater.
Shop Your Closet
I did my own closet deep dive and found I needed new boots that were both waterproof and stylish, and I could really use an affordable wool crewneck sweater, in a neutral color, either oatmeal or grey. I also wanted a new double-breasted blazer; there are so many cute ones right now — something slightly oversized for layering a sweater underneath.
I ended up buying this lovely Black Knit Blazer from Loft. It’s great quality for the price, I highly recommend it, and the Quince cashmere sweater. I also ordered the waterproof Eva Chelsea Boots from Nisolo. I am waiting for them to arrive and will then report on sizing. I’ve had to size up a half size in some Nisolo items.
What I bought for my autumn capsule wardrobe
I’ve also got my eye on a gorgeous blue peacoat at Sézane, the James Coat. I hope to try it on at Sézane in Paris, when I visit this fall, so I am saving some of my fall clothing budget for that.
With a curated shopping list in hand, we can shop for autumn capsule wardrobe essentials. I am listing the 15 or so pieces in our capsule, with recommended options for each. I’ve tried to include a variety of price points and focused on brands I own and like; I also own some of the specific pieces which I am noting as well.
Happy shopping!
1. Classic denim - straight or trouser style
Cute, comfy and ready for exploring, a classic pair of jeans is ideal in any capsule wardrobe. The jeans I am wearing in some of the photos are a few years old, by Paige.
I am currently loving trouser-style jeans with a loose fit and wider cuff. I think they are very flattering. If those aren’t for you, you could go with a straight cut, another classic. But any jeans that you love will work. I tend to prefer a darker wash for fall and don’t wear jeans with rips and holes (personal preference).
SHOP
My current favorite denim is by Reformation; I own two trouser-style pairs from last season. A current similar style is the Val 90s Mid Rise Wide Leg in the color Burnside.
I also really like J. Crew denim; their dark wash is great. For a straight jean, my current favorite is the Vintage Slim Straight in Resin Rinse.
Everlane also has a terrific variety of styles that are well-priced. Options include wide, curvy, straight, and relaxed, and they come in several washes.
If you want to be able to try on different styles to find what works for you, Madewell is a great option. I own two pairs and really like them. They have many styles in their standalone stores and are also carried in Nordstrom.
Budget-friendly option: this well-priced pair by Land’s End comes in three denim washes (I like “port indigo”) and sizes 2-18: Women’s Recover High-Rise Wide-Leg Blue Jeans.
2.Trousers for Autumn (2)
A trouser pant is a foundational piece for a autumn capsule wardrobe so I am including a lot of options in the shopping section below. My fall wardrobe has two pairs, I suggest a dark color for one, it won’t show spots (but pack your Tide pen anyway), and whatever you like for the second pair. You could do another solid or if you like pattern, a houndstooth.
A loose-cut trouser is especially comfy for sightseeing and lots of walking. Choose a fabric weight depending on the season and destination. I’ve also included two options from Athleta that look sleek but feel like yoga pants. Great for the plane!
You could also go with a skirt in place of a trouser. Any skirt could work, as long as it goes with your shirts, sweater and a blazer for layering.
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The black trousers I wear in some of the photos are a wool blend by Vince, from several years ago. Pictured above is the Everlane Tencel Way-High Taper Pant in black. And Abercrombie has an affordable trouser with fantastic reviews the A&F Sloane Tailored Pant. It comes in 15 colors and sizes 23-37.
The Hampshire Ponte Wideleg Pants are another great option for fall travel. They are machine washable; in six colors sizes 0 – 22.
If you want your travel pants to feel like leisure wear, here are two great options from Atheleta. For a flowy style, the Athleta Cosmic Wide Leg Pant. If you prefer something tapered, the Athleta Endless Pant are fantastic. I bought them in brown.
Budget-friendly option: the Quince Stretch Crepe Pleated Wide Leg Pant. I’ve just ordered these to try them out; I’ll update this when they arrive.
For something more tailored, the Siena Straight Italian Wool in camel, by Banana Republic. (I just tried these on, they are gorgeous!)
If you would like to add a skirt for fall, I haven’t tried but really like the Washable Silk Skirt by Quince. It’s well-priced and comes in 10 colors. XS to XL.
3. Blazer (my fall capsule wardrobe favorite)
I love traveling with blazers. They are the perfect capsule wardrobe item because they work with everything: jeans, trousers, skirts and dresses. A nice blazer instantly elevates any outfit; one of my favorite ways to wear it is with denim and sneakers. So versatile.
For autumn travel, I choose a slightly loose-fitting blazer because I want to have the option to layer a sweater underneath on a cool fall day in Paris. But I still want it to feel tailored. Very oversized blazers are in style this fall, but I think they are a bit hard to pull off without looking like you’re wearing your dad’s blazer.
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J. Crew has nice blazer options; I have two and am happy with them. For a classic style fit I love the Regent Blazer in Wool Flannel. It comes in sizes 00-24, in classic, petite, and tall and the wool is considered “four season”. It’s fairly lightweight The camel color is gorgeous (pictured above) and it comes in black and navy. Consider sizing up if you want to layer a shirt and sweater underneath.
Double-breasted blazers are popular this fall and I am loving this style. They look great buttoned or open.
Budget pick: Loft has a fantastic option in black which I just bought on sale, as mentioned above: the Knit Double-Breasted Blazer. It looks much more expensive than it is.
Boden offers a wide variety of blazers that are well-priced for the quality. Explore Boden blazers.
And Sézane has lovely blazers at a moderate price point in lots of gorgeous colors. If you like a double-breasted blazer consider either the Christie Jacket or Michele Jacket, both gorgeous. The latter has front patch pockets, a bit more casual.
For a classic single-breasted option the Ralph (black only) or the Romane for a sleek navy pinstripe.
Autumn Capsule Outfits
4. A wool crewneck sweater (or cardigan)
I’ve included a crewneck sweater for fall because it’s an ideal style to layer under a blazer. That’s a nice option if it’s chilly but not cold enough for a coat. You could also do this with a v-neck sweater, depending on your preference.
I recently purchased a cashmere crewneck for my own fall travels. Yes, cashmere can be affordable (my pick is $50) and it’s both warm and lightweight, making it ideal for travel.
Affordable Cashmere Sweaters for Fall
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Budget pick: I purchased the Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck from Quince. It comes in 17 colors and is $50. It’s lovely, very soft and light, yet warm. I recommend it. They also have cashmere v-neck sweaters.
For just slightly more ($75) Naadam offers a similar sweater: the Essential Cashmere Sweater. I’ve just ordered my first one to see how it compares to Quince. New York Times Wirecutter did a review of best cashmere sweaters and Naadam is their pick. I have heard it is slightly thicker and not quite as long as the Quince option. Note these run small so they advise sizing up.
Everlane has nice quality Cashmere Classic Crew Sweater in XXS-XXXL but at a higher price point (six colors).
For inclusive sizing, and if you want to try it on in store, J. Crew has a nice selection of crewneck cashmere sweaters in sizes XXX-Small to 3X: Cashmere Classic Fit Crewneck.
If you don’t want wool, Banana Republic Factory has a nice blend option in both neutrals, and fun fall colors: the Volume Sleeve Sweater.
5. Long-Sleeved Button-Up (2)
From my perspective, buttoned up in my favorite oxford shirts, button-up shirts are capsule wardrobe staples, in fall, and the rest of the year. They are versatile and ideal for layering as the weather turns cool. Wear it on a warmer day with jeans and your sleeves rolled up, or layered under a crewneck sweater and your blazer. You can also wear them open over a tank, on a nice day.
SHOP
Pictured here is the Banana Republic Oversized Button-Up Shirt, which I wear in my capsule. I also love Boden’s classic cotton which I have in blue. After trying several brands last spring, it came out as the winner. COS has a slightly oversized version for under $100: COS Oversized Long-Sleeve Shirt.
For a budget pick, Quince has a lovely Organic Cotton Poplin Shirt in white, black and a blue stripe.
6. A turtleneck
A turtleneck is ideal to wear with jeans or trousers, or to layer under a blazer. For fall I like something that is thin enough to layer under my blazer. And if you are adding color to your autumn capsule, this is an ideal piece to do it with!
SHOP
Banana Republic has a turtleneck sweater in multiple colors that is currently under $50, the Merino Wool Turtleneck. It comes in a cream and dark brown both ideal for a neutral palette, but if you want to add a hit of color, look at the gorgeous red brick or pretty azure blue. I have it in the cream and the merino wool is quite soft and has a nice drape to it. It’s also “responsible wool” certified.
If you prefer a non-wool turtleneck, the Soft Luxe Turtleneck Shirt comes in six colors, XXS-XL.
J. Crew also has a thin turtleneck that’s great for layering, the Women’s Tissue Turtleneck.
7. A scarf/poncho
A wool wrap or poncho will be one of your favorite things. I have them in black and oatmeal and bring them on every trip. It’s a cozy layer on the plane and an ideal accent to on a cool evening. Some poncho styles allow you to wear it as a scarf as well.
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Pictured above is a classic option by J. Crew: Cashmere-Wool Blend Poncho.
For a luxe poncho consider the NAADAM Cashmere Ribbed Collar Open Front Poncho in black. It also comes in a gorgeous burnt orange color called cider, and three other muted shades. (Currently out of stock. I’ll update when they are available again)
I just ordered my first cashmere sweater from NAADAM, a company that specializes in affordable and sustainable cashmere. I will add more about it when it arrives and compare it to Quince.
9. Tee Shirts
T-shirts are a nice capsule basic, yearround. I always wear one on the plane, under other layers in case it’s warm. Two tees are plenty for a fall capsule, unless it will be warm and you don’t have access to laundry; then I’d add a third. I chose versatile white, a black and a striped, but colors depend on your capsule colors.
Most of us have t-shirts in out wardrobe. If you need a new one, my striped tee is by Boden. I also have t-shirts by Vince, Madewell, Banana Republic and so on. I am linking a few options below.
And I am wearing the
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Reformation makes a soft and well-priced classic: Perfect Vintage T. This tee is a relaxed fit.
Boden has a fabulous Short-Sleeved Breton T as does Amour Vert: Berkeley Dream Knit Tee.
In Motion Seamless Tank by Athleta is similar to mine which I bought a few years ago.
8. Pea Coat
Fall travel can bring chilly temps and a peacoat will keep you cozy without weighing you down as a full-length coat would.
I like how they look both buttoned and open and the fact they come in different lengths allows us to pick one that works for our capsule and destination.
SHOP
I just picked up a lovely peacoat from Nordstrom to try with my own fall capsule. It’s the Belle and Bloom Forget You Military Wool Peacoat. The fit and fabric are both very nice and I love the way it works with my other pieces.
Pictured above is Everlane’s Rewool Cocoon Coat which comes in cream and taupe. (It’s now on sale so sizes may be limited.)
I also love the James Coat from Sézane, as I mentioned above. It is an investment but Sézane quality is great. I find the fit and fabrics reflect the prices.
If you are looking for a camel fall coat, I like the Boden’s Wool Blend Pea Coat. It’s well-priced for the quality — Boden items are made to last. I own many items from them and like them all.
If you’d like something with a pattern and shorter, the Ralph Lauren Houndstooth Cropped Pea Coat is very cute. Sizes 0 to 18.
9. Trench Coat
Whether you pack a trench coat or a wool coat in your fall wardrobe depends on where you are going and when. Amsterdam in mid-September will differ greatly from London in November.
If you don’t already own a trench coat this might be the piece you invest in. A classic trench is practical, versatile and timeless — a true wardrobe staple.
Mine is from Tory Burch from ten years ago. However, this classic style is found at a variety of retailers. Your decision is single or double-breasted and what color. Tan is a classic; I also love black and olive green.
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I love this affordable option by Quince, the Comfort Stretch Trench Coat. It’s available in classic tan and lovely navy.
If you like a black trench — I think they are so chic — Everlane’s Cotton Modern Trench comes in black as well as tan and olive. Banana Republic also has a gorgeous black trench this fall; it also comes in tan: Timeless Trench Coat.
Of course, if you want to splurge on the ultimate investment piece, there’s the Burberry classic, the Kensington Heritage Trench.
Shoes for An Autumn Capsule Wardrobe
10. Loafers (my favorite shoe for fall)
Loafers are the MVP of my autumn capsule wardrobe for travel. Whenever I put on a nice pair of loafers, I feel more put together, so I always pack black loafers for a fall trip to Europe.
I like a classic style but chunky loafers are also trendy right now. Penny loafers are also a nice alternative.
SHOP
Sam Edelman makes a nice pair of classic loafers, the Loraine, found at Nordstrom and other retailers and available in many colors. They closely resemble the gorgeous Gucci classic, the Jordaan.
For a penny loafer, Cole Haan has a nice option this fall: the Lux Pinch Penny Loafer. And this similar pair from & Other Stories, the Leather Penny Loafer comes in black and brown. Full sizes only.
I am loving Sézane’s André Loafers; they come in patent black and six other colors.
11. Boots for Fall Travel (waterproof options)
Here’s what I think about waterproof boots. If I am traveling in fall, it might rain. If I am on a vacation that will involve a lot of walking around, I want my feet to stay comfortable and dry. So why would I risk it with boots that aren’t at least water-resistant? Unless you’re certain it won’t rain on your vacation, or maybe you have other rain-friendly footwear to bring, I suggest boots that can get wet and keep you dry. Those are the options I am including here.
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I just ordered the Eva Everyday Chelsea Boot from Nisolo. They have waterproof uppers with a rubber sole and come in six colors (black and brandy are shown above). As soon as they arrive, I will wear them in the rain and update this with my thoughts. I own another pair of shoes from Nisolo, which I like, the Flatform Sandal. Nisolo tends to run small, so I size up a half-size, although Nisolo tells me this boot runs true to size.
Another waterproof ankle boot is available by Toms, the Dakota Water Resistant Boot. It’s a classic style at a great price in six colors. I own Tom’s classic cotton slip-ons and like them as a company.
Splurge option: Aquatalia is a fantastic Italian brand with beautifully made waterproof boots. They are an investment but I found mine at Nordstrom Rack for half price. You can explore options here: or the full offering at Aquatalia.
12. Sneakers for Autumn
Any sneakers will do for a capsule wardrobe, and don’t worry about being under-dressed. Even in Paris, women wear comfy running shoes to elegantly speed along the cobblestones.
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I love my Allbirds wool sneakers for fall travel. They are lightweight and comfy. Pictured above are the Esplar Canvas Sneakers by Veja, a French brand widely available in the U.S. They also come in leather a more practical choice for fall as they are easy to clean. Explore the many cute Veja options here: Shopbop Veja.
Cariuma is another brand I’ve recently discovered. I tried on my sister’s pair, the IBI in Sand Knit. They are ultra-lightweight, great for travel, and really cute and comfy. I plan to order my own pair. They are ethically and sustainably made and if you have any issues with your feet, they easily accommodate orthotics.
And Rothy’s Lace-Up Sneaker in off-white which they call “blonde” is another cute option. It would go with everything and not show dirt as much as white (but they are washable). I size up a half size in Rothy’s flats but these run true to size.
13. Accessories
Accessories are one way to add color and variety to your autumn capsule wardrobe. I always travel with scarves and chose a wool plaid for fall.
Have you considered your belt as an option for adding color? I am seeing many brightly colored belts and love the idea of using them as an accent. I haven’t taken the plunge, but would love one. The belt pictured is the Artemis by Sézane. It comes in neutrals and several gorgeous colors, including a yellow and lilac that would be lovely for fall. The fact it doesn’t have holes makes it versatile; it can be worn higher or lower on your waist. Try belting it over a button-up shirt.
The handbag shown is the Mini Double Loop Bag by Cuyana in the color cappuccino.
Capsule Wardrobe for Fall Travel
A good capsule wardrobe will work equally well for the day and evening. Here are three outfit combinations ideal for an evening out. Just slightly elevated from our daytime outfits, I appreciate having something to change into after sightseeing. When I have space I like to bring a lightweight blouse exclusively for the evening that works with my nicer trousers. That way, I know I will always have something to change into for dinner.
Evening Outfits
Tote Bag for an Autumn Wardrobe
I recently invested in a new tote bag, the Classic Structured Leather Tote by Cuyana. I absolutely love it. I use it most days and it’s already come with me on trips to California and Canada. Note that the one I bought is a traditional tote style with an open top. They also have gorgeous zippered totes, if you want something specifically for travel: Classic Leather Zipper Tote.
For a budget-friendly but still luxe option, I like the Quince Italian Leather Tote.
Sustainable Clothing Brands for Capsule Wardrobes
Many of the brands listed here make sustainable production a priority. Athleta, Boden, Sézane, Reformation, and Veja are all certified B Corps. To earn B certification a business must meet high standards of performance, accountability, and transparency on factors from employee benefits to sustainability and supply chain practices.
Everlane, a great source for elevated basics, gets high marks for sustainability in many areas, but isn’t B Corp Certified. You will find the name of the factory a piece was made in, in each product listing when you click on “More detail”. Likewise, Quince isn’t B Corp Certified but sources sustainable materials like organic cotton and linen, Mulberry silk, and cashmere. Quince is transparent about its partner factories, including wages and working conditions, and is BSCI and Bluesign® certified.
The bigger brands mentioned here, such as J. Crew and Banana Republic are making strides toward sustainability but have a long way to go. Some of their products use sustainable materials.
I hope you’ve discovered some new brands to try. If you have a favorite sustainable clothing brand, please share in the comments below.
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SubscribeI hope this has given you some inspiration for your autumn travel wardrobe. Whether one new scarf or an entire wardrobe created with what you already have, the most important thing is feeling happy with how you look and comfortable as you explore, whether in Paris or Portland.
So which color palette will you choose for your capsule wardrobe? Please share in the comments below. And I’d love to hear where you are going.
Bon voyage!
For more on packing efficiently you might enjoy: Packing Guide for Overpackers. If you are already looking ahead to spring, explore my Spring Capsule Wardrobe for Travel.
