I grew up in Arizona and spent most of my adult life in California, so I’m a summer girl through and through and love nothing more than warm, sunny days and the outfits that go along with them. Recently, though, something inside me kind of clicked, and I’ve been craving all things fall. Sure, it’s easy to blame it on the unrelentingly scorching weather we’ve been having in L.A., but really, the thing pushing me over the edge is the fashion waiting on the other side of this season.
As an editor for Who What Wear, I’ve been evaluating the fall 2018 fashion trends for upward of six months—and now that all of the pieces I first spotted on the runways in NYC and Paris are trickling into stores, naturally, I’m ready to put a real-life spin on them and add the pieces to my own closet.
That being said, my approach to trends is always measured, meaning my wardrobe is a healthy mix of pieces I’ll wear year after year and some of the key trends of the season. With autumn in mind, I’ve developed a capsule wardrobe built around the pieces I’m planning to wear. Ahead, learn about the rules I follow to make smart purchases and limit my wardrobe to just 15 items.
Rule 1: Buy the Fall Trends at Affordable Prices
Trends are where I dedicate the least amount of money since I don’t want to spend much on items with a short shelf life.
Modern Cowboy Boots
Yes, cowboy boots are back for fall—this time with a modern twist like metal capped toes and sleek finishes. You can add this pair to your autumn wardrobe for just $88.
Leopard
Leopard is everywhere for fall, and if you’re ready to try something on the riskier side—like leopard-print pants—you can test them out without a huge investment.Available in sizes 0 to 12.
Belt Bag
This bag actually hits on two trends: the belt bag and faux croc. I'm not sure how many seasons I’ll be wearing this style, but for under $100, this is a steal.
"New Age" Sneakers
“Dad” sneakers have evolved into super-chunky styles for fall. Instead of dropping upward of $895 on styles from the runways, test-drive the trend with this $100 pair from Nike.
'80s Revival
The ’80s are back, everyone. Still not sure how to feel about it the second time around? Try something affordable to give it a test run.Available in sizes 0 to 14.
Slouchy Boots
Slouchy boots are back with a vengeance, but finding them for under $1000 is tricky. Luckily, Zara has a leather version that rings in at $279.
Rule 2: Invest in Shoes and Bags
Now, this is where I end up splurging. Each season, I’ll land on a few investment pieces in the form of shoes and bags. These are always items I know I’ll have in my closet for years to come (e.g., my Chanel slingbacks), so I choose them carefully before making a purchase. These are some I’ve landed on for fall 2018.
Like I mentioned, faux croc is one of the biggest trends of the season—as well as one of my personal favorites. These shoes from By Far hit that sweet spot of on trend but also timeless.
Again with the faux croc—I’m clearly obsessed. I’ve been eyeing this Rejina Pyo bag for months and know it’s time order one.
Rule 3: Build Out All of Your Staples
Here’s the foundation of your wardrobe, where it’s important to have items you can mix and match into different looks.
A Great Sweater
Instead of a standard sweater, try one with a square-neck silhouette, like this one from Jacquemus.
Available in sizes 2 to 8.
Versatile Trousers
High-waisted pants are a style you can wear everywhere from the office to a dinner party.Available in sizes 2 to 10.
A Top for Layering
Whether worn with jeans or a high-waisted skirt, this is a seasonal essential.Available in sizes XXS to XL.
Dark Denim
Straight-leg jeans continue to be the most popular silhouette. Change over to a dark wash for the months ahead.Available in sizes 24 to 30.
A Slip Skirt
While the skip skirt was one of the biggest pieces this summer, we’ll see the style transitioning into fall—worn with boots instead of sandals.Available in sizes XS to M.
Rule 4: Outerwear Is Key
Fall style is all about the jacket or coat you’re wearing since it usually ends up being layered over your other clothes. I always pick pieces that are versatile and can be worn with a range of outfits.
Shearling Coat
Shearling coats will be big. Order this inexpensive style before it sells out.Available in sizes XXS to M.
Faux Fur Coat
In a similar family to shearling, faux fur is another big fit for fall.Available in sizes XS to XL.
Next: Shop the 19 best things I wore this month.