10 Fall Style Themes
How is it almost the end of October? It’s still warm here in California.
A friend sent me a post about easy fall outfits and it inspired me to reflect on everything I’ve bought and worn so far this season. There are 10 themes that are clear yes’s for fall, no matter the year.
As I continue to treat my closet like a collection that’s ever-evolving, I’m noting all of this to pull back out next year and revisit. Sure, do I wish some outfits were more perfect, or I had this or that? Of course. But you can always work with what you have- while learning exactly what you want next.
Here are 10 fall style themes to pull inspiration from. I hope they spark ideas for getting creative with your closet and help guide future purchases!
1. Leopard Print
I’ve never not loved leopard. For me, it’s about placement and scale. I prefer it on the bottom in a traditional print and size. In my collection, I have leopard boots, a scarf, a skirt, and corduroys, and I love pairing them with black or brown (and sometimes red). I’m also obsessed with the idea of a leopard belt, and these loafers are on my wishlist too!
2. Fall Dresses
Ditsy florals, paisley prints, and earthier colors are my go-to this time of year. My favorite dresses are the ones I can style with lots of different bags, shoes, and necklaces. Nothing too fancy. Both of these dresses are a few seasons old now, one is Cara Cara and the other English Factory (here is a similar silhouette). Some of my favorite places to find versatile dresses are Christy Dawn, Hill House Home, Tuckernuck, and Doen. Especially love this boho printed one.
3. Tweed
Oh my gosh—what a treat this vintage St. John jacket has been, I had no idea how much I would love styling it, the ways have been endless! I also have a more traditional black and white tweed blazer but this one is just so dang fun. Tweed is classic, versatile, and elevates any outfit a la Chanel. Before buying, ask yourself: where does the length hit? would it look good over a dress? can I layer it or is it meant to be worn as a top? which pants and shoes pair best? Love the fringe on this one. And here’s a great secondhand St. John option.
4. Jewel Tones
Ruby, emerald, amethyst, citrine, aquamarine—jewel tones just feel so rich. I snagged a wine colored Doen top this season and paired it with chocolate brown cashmere and new suede boots. The emerald green cashmere sleeveless sweater is an old Reformation find that I love pulling out this time of year. Since it’s more fitted, I tried it with wide-leg jeans and it felt hip.
5. Neutrals & White
Neutrals are always grounding, mix-and-match friendly, and the perfect backdrop for accessories or statement shoes. This time of year I like to play with bright whites and darker sweaters and knits for some contrast. As I evolve my collection, I’m focusing on quality over quantity and investing in foundational pieces. I love Jenni Kayne cashmere sweaters, each one has been worth the price so far.
6. Button Downs
I love oversized button downs year round, but heavier oxford and darker denim options feel right for fall. I’ve been styling them unbuttoned a lot recently with a fitted tank. If you’re in need of a crisp white poplin one– this is my year round go-to, make sure to size down.
7. Cords & Chinos
These cords are old Zara but I still love the wide leg fit. The barrel leg pants are Gap but unfortunately sold out. I tried this pair on in Austin a couple weeks ago and loved them just as much! These are both great pant options for wearing with neutrals but I also envision them with pretty printed tops for some further dimension. The white belt was an investment this season- I also love this style in dark brown.
8. Printed Jackets
Both of these jackets are old but I love keeping my eye on statement outerwear and blazers. They add texture, personality, and interest to an outfit. This satin skirt is older from J.Crew but I like to keep in mind satins, silks, suedes this time of year too. Check out this cutie and this cutie. Also, keep your eye on Julia Amory, she has some great jacket options sometimes too.
9. Transitional Jackets
When it comes to a transitional barn or quilted jacket, I always go for a foresty green. It just pairs so well with the greys, blues and blacks that I wear so much of. This barn jacket is super old from J.Crew. I can’t say enough good things about this quilted one, it has the perfect drape. It also comes in a bunch of colors! If you’re in SF, it’s a great one for year round wear.
10. Short Sleeve Sweaters
Fall is our warmest season, so I don’t go too crazy with sweaters until winter. I like playing around with a vest or short sleeve sweater this time of year. I didn’t have a specific category for it but transitioning into darker denim feels good too. This pair is my absolute favorite for daily wear. I also just invested in a grey 90s straight leg pair to move into winter.
Some pieces are older, some new. Some outfits aren’t perfect—but that’s the fun. How do you know until you try them on and live in them a bit?
I’m keeping an eye out for a few perfect additions: a long pendant necklace, darker sneakers, loafers, a suede bag (my friend has this one and it’s so luxe for Amazon, wow!), long beaded necklaces, oversized denim jacket, casual sweater dress, leather and suede jackets, fleece or fur vests, bold Hermès silk scarf, paisley Etro scarf, and a printed maxi skirt.
Closets are a living, evolving collection. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s creativity, fun, and discovering exactly what you want next in your closet.
