How to Create a Fall Workwear Capsule Wardrobe
Are you ready to create the ultimate fall workwear capsule wardrobe?
In a recent post about fall trends, I talked about how classic capsule wardrobes were the highlight on the runways – with brands focusing on creating timeless looks with high-quality luxury pieces. I personally love creating capsule wardrobes, so I was thrilled to see this.
In today’s fast-paced world, we’re always looking for ways to simplify our lives and reduce decision fatigue. One of the best ways to do that is by creating capsule wardrobes! So today I’ve set out to help you create the perfect fall workwear capsule wardrobe.
Workwear is another huge fall fashion trend we saw on the runways this year – with everything from power suits to classic button-downs. So whether you’ve got an office job or not, I know you’re going to be rocking workwear this fall.
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
I’ve talked a lot about capsule wardrobes before – and I have several guides to help you create a classic look (steal my summer-to-fall transitional capsule wardrobe!) but before we dive into the items you need for this fall workwear capsule, let’s touch on what a capsule wardrobe is, and why I love them.
A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of clothes that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits, allowing you to get dressed quickly and easily without sacrificing style. It’s essentially a cheat sheet way to look great every day, with a limited number of items.
Fall is my favorite season to dress for. I love it because we finally get to pull out our layering pieces to create truly beautiful looks that transition from the office to after-work drinks with ease! The big problem that we face with this season is constantly changing weather! That’s why when I create a fall workwear capsule wardrobe – step one is always layers.
How do you create your own fall capsule wardrobe for work?
When you’re creating a capsule wardrobe, step one is always to determine your style. Your personal style is the most important part of any capsule wardrobe. Take the time to think about the types of clothes that you feel the most comfortable and stylish in.
When it comes to creating a fall workwear capsule you’re also going to need to take into account your work. You might have to wear something slightly different from what I’ve shared – depending on your office culture, work dress code, and after-work activities.
Whenever I’m creating a capsule wardrobe I always try to create neutral color palettes. The more neutral your color palette is, the more cohesive each of your outfits will be and the easier it will be to mix and match outfits to your liking. You can always add a few pops of color with your shoes, bags, or accessories.
For fall this year, I tend to work with earthy neutral colors but red is the color of fall 2023, so keep that in mind when you’re picking your pops of colors to highlight your personal style.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Work Capsule Wardrobe
There are always a few things that you can do to make sure your fall workwear wardrobe stands the test of time – because trust me, you want to create a look and wardrobe that’s classic and timeless. You definitely don’t want to have to recreate your look every couple of months – or even every year!
Invest in quality pieces
Always make sure that you invest in quality pieces. Choose items that are well-made from durable materials. Choose pieces that can form the foundation of your capsule wardrobe and that can be paired down the line with less expensive items to create a variety of outfits.
Mix and match
Just like picking a neutral color palette, you really want to choose pieces that can be mixed and matched easily. The key is to look for versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down, and that you can wear in a variety of settings. Think about how you can pair a blazer with jeans or a skirt to totally change the look.
Adding accessories to your capsule wardrobe
Don’t forget about accessories! Accessories are one of the best things you can add to a capsule wardrobe, especially a work capsule wardrobe. With accessories, you can be bold or simple and completely change how an outfit looks and feels.
You can add necklaces, scarves, bags, and shoes to completely change a look. Shoes can also be a big help if you want outfits that can go from the office to dinner or after-work drinks. One thing I love for fall is big chunky scarves. They’re a great chance to add that pop of color to your wardrobe as well.
Keep it simple
Lastly, just make sure that you keep your wardrobe simple and streamlined. When it comes to a capsule wardrobe (especially a capsule wardrobe for work), it’s best to stick to high-quality, key pieces and avoid trends that will quickly go out of style and leave you feeling outdated. The simpler your capsule, the easier it will be to get dressed in the morning, and the more money and time it’ll save you in the long run.
What to include in a fall capsule wardrobe for work
The goal with this fall capsule wardrobe was to reflect autumn! I wanted this fall capsule wardrobe to be a closet reset that we all so desperately need when summer styles start to feel stale. As always, I’ve picked out high-quality pieces that are perfectly on-trend. Keep scrolling to shop my fall workwear capsule wardrobe!
The Perfect Dress for Fall
Finding the perfect dress for fall (and for work) is never easy, but this tailored and sleek dress might be it! I was on the lookout for a dress that is easily layered, which means it needs to be tailored and form-fitting.
Plus it’s not always cold this time of year, so I didn’t want to go straight to maxi dresses and suits. My goal was to find a dress that looked great with tights but didn’t always need them. Imagine this fall dress with a chunky scarf and trench coat – hello fall in the office!
Captain’s Blazer
A blazer is a must-have all year long. I’ve included blazers in our capsule wardrobes before – but when creating a fall workwear capsule, the blazer was an important player.
There are several things I love about this blazer, but first, it’s always important for me to find styles for us tall girlies! This blazer comes tailored to fit tall and petite. I love the oversized buttons and while I would recommend getting it in black, you can pick the color that best matches your overall style for fall.
Straight Sloan Pant
Another item that comes with sizes for tall women – which means we can wear our favorite kitten heels to the office (totally on trend for fall!)
I love how flattering these pants are – trust me when I tell you that they look great on everyone. Not to mention they’ll pair well with your new blazer.
Button-Down Shirt
I often include button-down shirts in my capsules because they are so versatile. This specific button-down is a must-have item for your fall work capsule wardrobe because of how well it pairs with a blazer.
Honestly, this top with our Sloan pants and Captain’s blazer creates the perfect look for a day at the office.
Mock Neck Sweater
Sweaters for fall… how revolutionary! Jokes aside fall is my favorite season to dress for specifically because I love sweaters and layering.
But finding the right sweater for the office isn’t easy. You don’t want sweaters that look too relaxed, it’s important to find a balance between comfort and style. This mock neck sweater helps you do just that.
A classic look that truly pulls together your fall workwear capsule.
Fall Wool Coat
It’s getting colder, especially when you’re on your way home from after-work drinks. Make sure you have a classic wool coat to protect against the chill.
I love ‘camel’ as a classic color for fall. This piece will become a favorite in your wardrobe. Personally, I look forward to autumn every year because I know it’ll be time to pull my Reiss coat back out of the closet.
Robinson Leather Tote
Briefcases are out – gorgeous leather totes are in! If you’ve been looking for the best bag for work, look no further.
Tory Burch has created an essential bag for our workwear capsule. This holds everything you need for a day at the office and I absolutely love the design.
Your bag can make or break your fall capsule wardrobe, so make sure you get the one to complement your personal style.
Loraine Bit Loafer
A classic loafer is a must-have in any workwear capsule, but especially for fall!
I love the details on this Sam Edelman loafer and while I definitely think you need a classic black pair for fall, these shoes come in every color so you could really get a pair that lets your personality shine! Accessories and shoes are the best way to do that in a capsule wardrobe.
Sterling Silver Love Knot Stud Earrings
When it comes to workwear, I prefer an understated luxury and the sparkle and shine of these earrings are perfect.
Finally, I get to share my favorite accessories for your fall capsule wardrobe! Accessories are the best way to let your personality shine. You can’t go wrong with a beautiful pair of studs.
Citizen Classic Watch
Lastly, a gorgeous watch for your fall workwear capsule. How else are you going to know when it’s happy hour? But truly, I love wearing a watch.
It’s a classic look that also helps you spend less time checking the time on your phone. Truly stay focused throughout the day with this Citizen’s watch.
At the end of the day, creating a fall workwear capsule wardrobe can be a great way to simplify your life and reduce decision fatigue, without ever sacrificing your style. It’s simply the best way to look stylish every day.
If you want to learn more about creating a classic wardrobe with high-quality pieces like this, read my guide here. For daily outfit inspiration and fun takes on new trends, make sure that you’re following me on Instagram and Pinterest. It’s the best way to stay up to date on all the latest trends and styles.
