The Fall Wardrobe Essentials Every Woman Over 30 Should Own

A fall capsule wardrobe sets the tone for all your transitional looks—and since autumn is probably the most exciting season to dress for, having the right essentials on hand is, well, essential. If you don’t already have these picks—including black leggings, white T-shirts, slick sunglasses, a cashmere sweater (yes, there are affordable versions), and autumn boots—somewhere in your closet, it’s time to invest. And for 2024, we’re also updating the classic formula with a few contemporary picks, including minimalist ballet flats and understated barn jackets that’ll elevate basic looks. (We also have thoughts on the proper length for socks.)

As you scroll through this edit, take stock of the pieces you currently own and think about what’s missing, what you have too much of, and what might need replacing. The whole point of curating a fall capsule wardrobe—or any capsule wardrobe really—is to mitigate the cycle of clothing fatigue and overspending and instead lean into versatile, hardworking pieces that complement your lifestyle. Now go take all the inspiration you need, and spice them up with our favorite fall fashion trends along the way.

Glamour’s fall capsule wardrobe wish list

• The Everyday Tee: Uniqlo Supima Cotton T-Shirt, $25
• The Perfect Jeans: Abercrombie & Fitch Mid-Rise ’90s Jeans, $90
• The Suede Booties: Madewell Ardin Ankle Boots, $198
• The Laptop Tote: Cuyana Classic Easy Tote, $268
• The Preppy Cardigan: Lillusory Striped Cardigan, $60 $46
• The Easy Dress: Boden Christina Tulle Midi-Dress, $198
• The Black Leggings: Vuori Daily Leggings, $89
• The Chic Blazer: Everlane Oversized Blazer, $198
• The White Sneakers: Soludos Roma Sneakers, $139
• The Classic Sunglasses: Chimi 06 Sunglasses, $165
• The Rain Boots: Los Cabos Puddle Jumper Rain Boots, $75
• The LBD: Nikki Lund Marilyn Ruched Knit Dress, $175

1. The white T-shirt

Not everyone is a “jeans and a tee” person, but who can deny the appeal of a perfectly fitted T-shirt? We’ll always encourage a little color, but you need a proper white tee before anything else. These picks are bestsellers among Glamour readers; pay special attention to Uniqlo’s soft, long-lasting design (a perennial go-to among our editors) and Everlane’s three-for-$60 deal.

2. The suede boots

Suede is having a bigger year than usual, but the soft, textured leather never goes out of style. Each of these pairs will enjoy near-daily wear peeking out from under wide-leg jeans and fall dresses. Block and kitten heels are especially walking-friendly, so prioritize those styles in your capsule, whether you’re off to work or punching up a going-out look.

3. The straight-leg jeans

Denim trends come and go, but straight-leg jeans are timeless—so make sure you have a nice pair of everyday blues to turn to in a pinch. These super-versatile picks will go with everything else in this edit, making even simple outfits feel considered and editorial. Plus, they’ll work well in any season, not just autumn.

4. The button-down shirt

Pop the collar, roll up the sleeves, wear it loose or completely buttoned-up—a relaxed button-down shirt is an easygoing layer that adds instant polish to jeans and full skirts. You can never go wrong with classic white or black, but you also might find yourself reaching for unexpected materials like denim more often than you’d expect.

5. The tote bag

Sure, a designer bag isn’t technically a necessity—but if you’re in the market for something that’ll last many seasons to come, these under-$500 picks from editor-loved brands make great investments. We suggest going with one that’ll hold all your daily necessities, whether that’s a laptop and a lunch container or a wallet and water bottle.

6. The just-right blazer

Autumn is all about layering, and blazers might just be the ultimate stackable pieces. Throw one over a T-shirt or blouse on warmer days, then add a sweater to the mix when things get chillier. These neutral picks are some of the most versatile options on the market; single-breasted options are the easiest to pull off, while double-breasted silhouettes are a little more daring and fashion-forward. Thankfully, you can’t go wrong here.

7. The kitten heels

While kitten heels are certainly enjoying a trendy moment—they walked nearly every major runway this season—they’re genuine classics that aren’t going to disappear anytime soon. These picks pair well with everything from shirtdresses to jeans, adding old-school glamour to looks in need of some personality.

8. The hero dress

No matter the occasion, from fall weddings to last-minute celebrations, you need something nice on hand so you don’t find yourself freaking out in a dimly lit changing room at the eleventh hour. These easy-to-accessorize showstoppers—which effortlessly dress up or down with pieces you already own—are here to help.

9. The perfect sweater

You don’t need to fill your closet with a dozen different cardigans and cashmere sweaters; just buy one or two well-made knits and wear them on repeat, year after year. Start with approachable neutrals—gray, taupe, cream—and branch out from there. And while we’ll always advocate for premium materials like cashmere, you don’t need to splurge to get the look you want. (Just make sure you’re caring for your knits properly to keep them going as long as possible.)

10. The black leggings

You and black leggings go way back, and it’s a relationship that’ll keep paying dividends well into the future. Skip the riffraff and go right for the buzzy brands you already know and love: Lululemon, Vuori, Aerie, and the like. Plus, these bottoms pair surprisingly well with high-end pieces like scarf coats and cashmere sweaters, especially when you’re trying to look cute on a last-minute coffee run.

11. The sporty sneakers

The best sneaker style is one you can wear for 10,000 steps without thinking twice—and have you looking cute too. Slim, sporty sneakers offer a retro look that complements any outfit; all you need to do is pick the design and colorway that speaks most to you.

12. The quarter-length socks

Millennials and Zoomers can agree on one sock length: the quarter. Whether you’ve always worn ankle socks or you prefer the taller crew, this happy medium complements sneakers, loafers, and even slingback heels. Give it a shot this season, and it might just become your closet’s reigning champ.

13. The barn jacket

One of fall 2024’s trendiest pieces, the humble chore coat also happens to be completely timeless—so why wouldn’t you want it on hand when it’s chilly out? Featuring contrast collars, durable materials, and easily accessible pockets, these workwear jackets more than pull their weight in a wardrobe—and they look great with romantic dresses and boxy trousers alike.

14. The everyday sunglasses

Must we explain the appeal of the perfect pair of shades? We love that these frames are all certified timeless, with a retro charm that still feels fresh. Whether you’re spending $15 or $500, you’ll look like a million bucks.

15. The silver earrings

Earrings are an especially effortless way to zhuzh up an outfit, and we’re vibing with silver for the grayer, moodier days ahead. Waterdrop earrings have officially transitioned from trendy to classic in 2024, and you can never go wrong with slick hoops. Each of these pairs is just extra enough to make a statement, but they won’t overwhelm more casual ’fits.

16. The black dress

No matter the dress code you’re walking into—cocktail, formal, creative-chic—a great LBD will always have your back. There are more basic options out there, but we love that each of these gems stands out from the crowd with details like asymmetrical necklines, dramatic draping, embellishments, and tulle overlays. Grab some earrings and your go-to heels and you’re ready to light up the room.

17. The glove flats

Trend-proof your ballet flats by making them as simple as possible, stripping away the straps, bows, and hardware that change with the seasons. These minimalist leather shoes are exactly the kind of understated pieces you’ll find yourself reaching for every week, especially for the office.

18. The leather jacket

What’s fall without a leather jacket? Whether you want a classic motorcycle silhouette or a new-school take such as a blazer or a racer jacket, these picks add some downtown grit to your usual repertoire. Genuine leather is more durable and long-lasting than vegan leather, and will therefore cost you more—so we’re including both materials here for any budget.

19. The denim skirt

Denim skirts don’t need to go away when autumn hits; in fact, they’re at the height of their powers right about now. These sleek, preppy options will allow you to give your jeans a well-deserved break—and they’ll kiss the tops of your favorite knee-high boots perfectly. Add a chunky knit or an oversized blazer to the mix to look like a style editor.

20. The suede bag

Again, suede is at its absolute best this time of year, and this season’s It bags certainly do not disappoint. Whether you need an everyday tote (like from Madewell and Mango) or a bag that’ll pull all of your weekend ’fits together (looking at you, Reformation and Free People), make sure you have a suede piece in your lineup.

21. The sweaterdress

Knit numbers are versatile pieces that deliver the same ease as your favorite summer dresses, just in a cozier material. Chic and functional all at once, sweaterdresses play nicely with suede boots, sporty sneakers, and waist-defining belts. (You can even get away with glamming these gems up for a wedding.)

22. The slim loafers

Want to put the wrong-shoe theory to the test? Try pairing these sharp loafers with white jeans or a denim skirt. We’re expecting chunky loafers and Mary Janes to be especially trendy this fall, but we suggest investing in these classic styles first if you’re looking for a place to start.

23. The relaxed trousers

There’s a reason so many celebrities are photographed in roomy, laid-back trousers: These pants are effortlessly cool, but still plenty comfortable. Pair yours with an asymmetrical top and leather loafers for a look that could work for the office or a dinner date.

24. The trench coat

The perfect weight for transitional weather, trench coats offer weatherproof protection on breezy, drizzly days. It doesn’t hurt that these classic picks are practically designed to pair with everything you’re already planning to wear this season (including sweatpants and white sneakers when you can’t bring yourself to wear anything else).

25. The all-weather boots

Rain, mist, and slush are unfortunate realities this time of year—but with the right footwear, you can revel in wet weather instead of hiding from it. These ankle-length booties feature slip-resistant soles, water-resistant fabrications, and plenty of room for chunky socks, meaning they’re lifesavers for less-than-ideal weather conditions.

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