Crisp autumn mornings, golden leaves, and cosy layers – the changing weather comes with a wardrobe dilemma, but not if you’ve put together the perfect autumn capsule wardrobe. Creating a curated capsule wardrobe for autumn is the key to effortless style and endless outfit possibilities.
As with any capsule wardrobe edit, curating the perfect autumn capsule wardrobe involves selecting stylish basics that will work for the season.
“An important consideration when building an autumn capsule wardrobe is how to layer for keeping warm when the temperature drops,” advises Chantelle Znideric, an award-winning personal stylist.
“When looking to layer successfully, natural fabrics are always a great choice, as there are lots of benefits including, they are breathable, more durable, and sustainable, which means they will last longer than synthetic fabrics and will have less environmental impact.”
Waving goodbye to summer, while the biting cold of winter hasn't quite swept in, autumn weather can be incredibly volatile, meaning your autumn capsule wardrobe has to be one that is prepared for all eventualities. We've pulled together 21 items that will help to form the building blocks of your autumn outfit ideas.
How to build an autumn capsule wardrobe
There is no set number of items that should be in your autumn capsule wardrobe and this is a rule that applies across all seasons. If you prefer a minimalist capsule wardrobe, you may wish to set yourself a fixed number of items, based on your hanging and folding space, but essentially what you want to end up with is a number of interchangeable items that means you can create multiple outfits with fewer pieces.
“A winning autumn wardrobe is made up of gorgeous timeless staple pieces that you love wearing again and again,” says Chantelle.
Regardless of whether it's a winter capsule wardrobe or an autumn one, you should think of this selection of pieces as the building blocks of your outfits. That means that they form the base for the majority of your outfits and are generally classic enough that they can carry through from one year to the next. Into this you can interject a few more trend-led items during the season, to give your look a more directional feel.
Your autumn capsule wardrobe should still reflect your personality and the 21 items we have chosen are here to act as a guide to the journey of ultimate wardrobe organisation. This means you may want to be inspired by the silhouettes and layering ideas below but choose to put your own spin on it. One way you can do this is by choosing a palette that works for you.
“Understanding your best neutral colours will play an essential role in how to build a successful autumn capsule wardrobe,” says Chantelle. “These hues will help to form a solid foundation, enabling you to add unique pieces, new complementary colours, and mix and match different outfits, easily and effortlessly, for your lifestyle.
Don't be afraid to play with colour though as this will make the look feel like yours. You could even reference the latest fashion colour trends to add a seasonal refresh.
Tops
A key building block for your autumn capsule wardrobe, a strong selection of tops will help in the quest for ultimate layering. “Prioritise classics that you can layer, such as a crisp white cotton shirt to wear open over tops or buttoned for a more formal look,” says Siena Barry-Taylor, Fashion Expert at Thrift+. “You might want to also Invest in a cosy round-neck cashmere jumper (one of the top-selling items at Thrift+) or chunky button cardigan for cooler days.”
Long or 3/4 sleeve designs offer warmth as temperatures start to dip, although having camisoles or t-shirts for slightly warmer autumn days can be carried over from your summer capsule wardrobe for maximum cost per wear.
RRP: £34 | This long-sleeve top feels totally autumnal thanks to its khaki hue. A chic way to welcome in the new season, this will pair easily with darker or lighter neutrals and makes for a cosy layering piece under the best oversized jumpers, coats or jackets.
RRP: £95 | Preppy styling is going nowhere this season and this striped shirt is perfect for the autumn months. Meghan Markle is a fan of this label, which we're adding to our favourite British clothing brands. Try half-tucking in at the front, leaving the back long.
RRP: £65 | For style essentials like a white shirt, it’s worth choosing a classic shape at the most expensive price point you can afford – after all, you’ll be able to wear it throughout the year. For autumn, you can still go for a linen blend for those (hopefully) warmer days.
RRP: £55 | Cotton crew neck sweatshirts are ideal for milder temperatures before switching to the best cashmere sweaters. We love the autumnal brown hue of this design – tap into the brown fashion trend by teaming it with trousers in a pale shade of brown for a stealth wealth look.
RRP: £29.99 | A selection of pretty blouses are ideal for the 9-5 and can be layered under dresses or jumpers - such as the one above. Don’t dismiss florals for your autumn capsule wardrobe. Choose a dark floral print to give your outfits a unique blend of femininity and edge for the cooler season.
RRP: £259 | Leather is made for autumn and this shirt can help the tricky season transition, either by wearing as a shacket or pairing with slim-fit trousers for dressier occasions. It’s also the perfect partner when working out what to wear with black jeans - after all, black never goes out of style.
Trousers
Due to the drop in temperatures, trousers are the perfect solution before moving into tights season later in the year. As we leave behind linens, cotton and cotton blends will still be breathable and warm enough for the early autumn period. As we move further into the season, opt for wool, or wool-blends for a cosy and polished finish.
Siena suggests a high waisted pair: "Look for a flat-fronted pair with a side zip and a slightly wider leg, as these are so flattering. They can be dressed up or down which makes them an ideal addition.” And while black trousers are an obvious choice, Siena says to try other shades like charcoal or olive green. “This will add some variation and colour - a capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to be boring!”
The denim trends 2024 will also offer guidance on refreshing this part of your autumn capsule wardrobe, although essentially, denim in this context should straddle a selection of your best jeans - straight leg jeans will always look a little more polished, as well as trend-led styles, such as barrel leg jeans, if you want added style direction.
RRP: £100 | Wondering how to style straight leg jeans? The trick is with basically everything. Not as restrictive as skinny jeans, a straight leg feels slightly more polished and formal, giving an almost tailored finish that suits more silhouettes.
RRP: £27.50 | The front stitch detail helps to create a leg-lengthening finish, drawing the eye up and down your silhouette. The straight leg looks smart, making this a brilliant option for work, but could also be worn for formal or weekend wear.
RRP: £39 | When it comes to what to wear with wide leg trousers it's easier than you might think. There is essentially only one rule, keep your top half fitted, so that your frame isn't overwhelmed by the wider leg, creating balance throughout.
Skirts
Another key separate for your wardrobe, select your skirt shapes based on what suits your body type best. Pleated skirts add a little more interest and swoosh to your look, while an A-line design skims hips, stomachs and thighs, making it generally a universally flattering silhouette. For work, opt for smarter fabrics, while weekends, a denim maxi skirt, that 90s denim staple, will add a directional feel to your ensemble. Don't be afraid of print here either, with some moody blooms going a long way in updating your autumn look.
RRP: £59 | '90s fashion trends ushered back in the denim skirt and this look is here to stay for the foreseeable. A little smarter than a pair of jeans, a denim skirt outfit is great for smart casual situations. Pair this skirt with flats, trainers or boots.
RRP: £38 | See-through is one of the major spring/summer fashion trends for 2024, but you don't have to be exposing yourself to get in on the trend. This skirt covers your modesty. Wear with bare legs and a metallic top for a party or thick opaques and a chunky knit for more casual events.
RRP: £99 | With a more pencil-inspired skirt, this khaki design is in an easy autumnal shade that will pair well with tans, camels and rusty hues. The cargo pockets - a stylish alternative to cargo pants - add detail to this simple silhouette that makes for a great base piece for tops and blouses.
Jackets and coats
Integral to autumn, thanks to changeable weather, you'll need everything from light layers - such as the best waterproof jackets or a classic denim jacket - so you're prepared for both end-of-summer climates and early winter snaps. “For this wonderful transitional season, I wouldn’t be without a variety of leather jackets including biker, bomber and shacket styles,” says Chantelle. “The same goes for blazers! I have more timeless styles that scream quiet luxury, varsity stripes or colourful styles that can add a whole new dimension and formality to my personal style.”
As with jackets, it's about being adaptable when it comes to the types of coats you need in an autumn capsule wardrobe. The best trench coat will double up as a wet weather day fave, while one a parka will bridge the gap before you need to drag out your best puffer coat once more. Or try a waxed coat – the best Barbour jacket – for the ultimate mix of style and practicality.
RRP: £59.99 | No transitional wardrobe is complete without one of the best blazers and this tailored, double-breasted design shows you mean business. Easily slipped over tops, shirts, blouses and dresses, it adds instant polish to all outfits.
RRP: £199 | Water-resistant, this trench coat is a great alternative to a Burberry trench coat if you're looking for a lower price tag. In a classic beige colourway, this trench is ideal for finishing of any outfit in style, but is especially good for the office.
RRP: £130 (was £325) | In a classic parka silhouette, this khaki coat feels season-ready. The faux fur trimmed hood adds a cosy feel for blustery days, while the quilted inner will add warmth throughout. It's water resistant so it works for wet weather too.
Dresses
The best autumn dresses offer one-stop dressing, ensuring you look put together in a flash. Block-coloured, neutral iterations in classic midi silhouettes will never go out of fashion, but to add some edge to your autumn capsule wardrobe, try leather. “Leather is always on my radar and it’s a great heavy-duty fabric to wear in the autumn,” says Chantelle. “A leather or faux leather dress could be a winner to elevate your wardrobe.”
RRP: £95 | A maxi dress isn't just for summer and this ankle-sweeping design is ideal for an autumn capsule wardrobe thanks to its long sleeves and darker print. Team with a pair of boots and a chunky cardigan to evoke a boho capsule wardrobe.
RRP: £125 (was £250) | Cord is one of those beautifully textured fabrics that screams autumn-ready and this cute, tiered dress, with an optional self-fabric belt, can be dressed up or down for the season ahead. The high collar and long sleeves add extra coverage.
RRP: £98 (was £145) | The best shirt dresses will always have a home in your autumn capsule wardrobe. Lighter than knitted iterations, they work particularly well for transitional weather. The red, white and black print, won't go out of fashion either.
Shoes and bags
Footwear for the autumn season is one you can largely pull from across your closet. The best white trainers offer a casual spin for non-wet weather days, while the best loafers will offer a polished finish to workwear ensembles. While you might not be ready to pull on your knee boots yet, ankle boots are a must. Not only are they the best boots to wear with dresses, but they look great with jeans and trousers as well. For added fashion points, reference this season's shoe trends to add newness.
The latest autumn winter handbag trends 2024 will instantly update your autumn capsule wardrobe, however, for maximum wearability and longevity, opt for a neutral coloured bag that will carry the day to day items - a tote or crossbody style is ideal. If you have some money to spend, why not choose one of the best designer bags for under £1000? Choose wisely and it will work across the seasons.
RRP: £98 (was £245) | Every wardrobe deserves a pair of the best black boots, but tan is equally versatile and works well with other autumnal hues. These go-with-everything boots have a block heel for added comfort meaning you can be on your feet all day without compromising on style.
RRP: £99 | As the spring/summer shoe trends 2024 prove, flat shoes are going nowhere. Update your best ballet pumps by opting for a strappy style, which will add a chic look to maxi dresses, midi skirts and even your best mom jeans.
RRP: £35 | The best crossbody bags leave you hands-free to get on with your day and still keep all your essentials with you. This could-be-designer style oozes Quiet Luxury handbag vibes, and we love that direction gold hardware detail.
How to start an autumn capsule wardrobe
As with every capsule wardrobe, start by sorting out what you have, so that you can clearly divide, conquer and declutter clothes. Organising your wardrobe will allow you to assess the gaps in your wardrobe and where you actually need to shop for new items. Try styling as many outfits as you can together from what you have, taking pictures of each look as a record, so you can refer back to them, making getting dressed on an autumn morning super easy.
Once you know what you're missing, make a comprehensive shopping list. Each new item should really go with three existing pieces to make it a worthwhile investment. And if you’re on a budget, don’t be afraid to shop second-hand for your wardrobe building blocks.
“Pre-loved clothing is a great choice for capsule wardrobes as vintage and second-hand pieces often come from an era when clothing was made with higher quality materials meaning you can find durable and long-lasting pieces that are timeless,” says Siena.
“Second-hand is also often more affordable, which allows you to stretch your clothing budget further to create the wardrobe of your dreams. One of the biggest benefits of buying pre-loved fashion though is that you're extending the life cycle of garments and is a great way if you’re looking for how to shop sustainably.”
Is an autumn capsule wardrobe a good idea?
An autumn capsule wardrobe is a great idea for a number of reasons. Creating a tight edit of pieces for the season will allow you to declutter your wardrobe and minimise the amount of space you need to dedicate to your clothes. You’ll often find that many items from your spring capsule wardrobe can also work well in this mix of clothes.
In addition to this, collating an autumn capsule wardrobe should help you buy less and buy better, investing more in higher quality items, making this method of wardrobe editing better for the environment in the long run. And although you might invest more in a coat this season, such as a designer camel coat, if it lasts you for several years, you will save in the long run, as opposed to replacing items new each season.
