Add These Timeless Pieces To Your Autumn Shopping List, According To Stylists.
Summer is winding down, and the promise of crisp fall days is drawing near. Even if you adore the warmth of summer, there’s something about autumn that brings joy—be it the changing leaves or football Sundays. Yet, another highlight of fall is the fashion scene, and with trends evolving annually, assembling a fall wardrobe can feel overwhelming.
As we grow older, the focus isn’t necessarily on what’s “in” for the season, but rather on adding pieces to our wardrobe that reflect personal style and complement our figure.
“As women, our bodies go through changes,” explains petite style coach Angela Foster to Best Life. “Whether due to pregnancy, menopause, shifts in medication, or activity level, weight tends to fluctuate. Knowing how to adapt your clothing choices to these changes holds great power.”
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11 Fall Wardrobe Essentials as You Get Older
While bulky sweaters might seem like the go-to solution for concealing certain areas, Foster warns that this strategy can backfire. Instead, here are 11 essential items that will be timeless additions to your fall wardrobe.
1. Flattering dark jeans
Fall welcomes darker hues, and according to Foster, having a pair of dark wash denim is indispensable. When shopping for these jeans, factor in your body type.
“Mid-rise jeans tend to flatter most figures and offer the most comfort whether sitting, standing, or walking,” Foster advises. “Exercise caution with high-rise mom jeans as they can sometimes add bulk to the midsection and flatten our rear.”
Despite recent criticism of skinny jeans, if you feel confident and love a pair of dark wash skinnies, don’t discard them just because they’re no longer deemed trendy.
“One of the perks of aging is knowing yourself well enough to disregard trends that don’t suit your shape,” Foster notes. “Feel free to overlook the current denim trends and instead opt for rises and leg shapes that complement you best.”
2. A versatile sleeveless jacket
Whether known as a gilet, vest, or sleeveless jacket, this item should find a place in your fall wardrobe, suggests certified image stylist Elizabeth Kosich.
Kosich, also the founder of Elizabeth Kosich Styling, highlights that a classic gilet “serves as a savior during transitional seasons.”
“It provides ample torso warmth without restricting movement,” she explains. “Invest in a down vest for a sporty weekend look or explore options like shearling, fur, or faux fur for a more sophisticated weekday ensemble.”
Pairing a gilet with knee-high flat boots and those beloved skinny jeans creates a stylish ensemble. For a formal touch, consider combining it with an A-line skirt, tights, and Chelsea boots.
3. Wool poncho
While the term “poncho” might evoke thoughts of plastic materials, a wool poncho, when styled correctly, exudes sophistication and chicness. It’s an indispensable fall wardrobe piece, so consider investing in one crafted from a heavier fabric like wool.
“Ponchos not only provide warmth but also introduce a touch of drama. Their flowing silhouette garners attention while keeping you cozy,” Kosich explains. “Additionally, the airflow helps regulate body temperature during those brisk fall days. Opt for a full-length cape-style poncho for maximum impact or a traditional mid-thigh length for a subtler statement.”
4. Lightweight layering tops
Fall’s notorious temperature fluctuations call for adaptable clothing. Layering becomes essential to navigate the crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and cool evenings seamlessly.
“Autumn is beloved for its crisp mornings, warm days, and chilly evenings, necessitating swift wardrobe adjustments that can be tricky to foresee. The solution? Layers,” Kosich emphasizes. “Layering and shedding pieces strategically require planning. The objective is to strike a balance—neither too light nor too heavy.”
Foster recommends acquiring a few tops that serve as base layers, suitable for wearing under other garments or independently. For those conscious of their upper arms, Foster suggests opting for lightweight t-shirts.
“Look for tissue tees and similar lightweight layering options. With the availability of high-performance, moisture-wicking fabrics, there’s an abundance of choices. Once you find one you adore, make sure to stock up,” Foster recommends.
5. Versatile blazer
Blazers have transcended seasons, becoming a staple for fall too. However, Foster advises patience in finding the right fall blazer that truly complements your shape.
“This piece is worth waiting for until you stumble upon the perfect one,” she suggests. “A blazer with a hem hitting at the hipbones or slightly above is ideal for petite frames. For average and tall women, look for a tailored waist area to avoid a boxy appearance.”
Introducing a blazer to your wardrobe can be surprising in terms of versatility, Foster adds.
“If this is a new addition, you’ll be amazed at how frequently you’ll reach for it,” she remarks.
6. Classic pea coat
A pea coat transcends time, serving as a reliable wardrobe staple for years—or even decades.
“The classic pea coat is an investment piece and often serves as a foundational item in many wardrobes. Its versatility and timeless appeal, paired with a true navy color—flattering for those over 50—make it a coveted neutral,” Kosich explains. “Stick to the traditional pea coat cut or explore updated versions with distinctive design elements such as metallic hardware, statement sleeve cuffs, a fit-and-flare silhouette, or cropped length.”
A pea coat serves as a go-to choice, effortlessly maintaining warmth and elegance throughout fall.
7. Distinctive footwear
Accessories, especially shoes, play a pivotal role in completing an outfit while ensuring comfort and style, notes Foster.
Shoe trends might be worth exploring, particularly two versatile options that are currently trending.
“Keep an eye out for playful kitten heels. They effortlessly pair with dresses, denim, and everything in between,” Foster recommends. She also highlights platform sneakers as a must-have.
“They offer ultimate comfort and are more fashion-forward than regular gym sneakers,” she explains.
8. Cashmere cardigan wrap
A wrap proves invaluable in any wardrobe, especially during fall. As we grow older, treating ourselves to luxurious fabrics becomes more appealing, making a cashmere option an enticing choice.
“Cashmere, the perfect fall fabric, strikes a balance between being lightweight enough for layering and dense enough to provide exceptional warmth. A cashmere cardigan wrap is the ultimate fall essential, blending practicality with style,” Kosich remarks. “Early in the season, pair it with a simple t-shirt or tank, leggings, and suede driving moccasins. As temperatures drop, switch the t-shirt for a cashmere tee, crewneck sweater, or turtleneck, layering a gilet over the cashmere wrap.”
9. Versatile dress
Fall’s cooler temperatures don’t necessarily mean bidding farewell to dresses. However, preferences might shift with the seasons and age. For this reason, Foster recommends considering a wrap-style dress or one featuring an empire waist.
“These dresses are truly versatile, transitioning effortlessly from casual to formal and from summer to winter with slight accessory adjustments,” she suggests. “When selecting the perfect wrap dress, pay attention to the belt placement. A belt positioned at the waist offers balance for various body shapes or for women carrying additional volume in the thigh area.”
To divert attention from the midsection, opt for a dress with a higher belt.
10. Peplum garments
Peplums, once a craze from a decade ago, have returned, offering a fantastic option to highlight your waist this autumn due to their cut.
“These tops and sweaters are a simple solution for areas like the midsection—stomach, hips, and thighs. Peplum or empire waist styles provide definition under the bust or slightly above the waist, depending on the design, then elegantly flare out to cleverly conceal any trouble spots,” Foster explains. “They’re highly popular this season, making it easier to find various options in stores and online.”
11. Denim Jacket
Completing this list is the ever-reliable jean jacket.
“Jean jackets are perfect for the transitional seasons. Extremely versatile, they effortlessly adapt to both casual and more dressed-up looks,” Kosich mentions. “Layer them over a cotton polo or turtleneck for a lighter ensemble, or for added warmth, pair them with a wool sweater set and a cozy wool scarf.”
This fall, aim for a jacket that doesn’t extend too long or appear oversized. Opt for a cropped waist-length jacket to complement your figure and easily match with different bottoms. Kosich emphasizes that this length maintains an ideal silhouette division into thirds, enhancing overall proportions and flattery.
