my guide to the essentials of the season.

i’ve linked one of each of my essentials, so here are some of my top choices!

we’re working our way from the bottom to the top, starting with shoes!

1. knee high and ankle boots

boots are a great addition to an outfit. i would pair them with a maxi sweater dress or a set. it could also be worn with the mini skirt and tights combo, jeans/pants and black top combo, or leggings.

when choosing my boots, i look at the height of the heels, comfort, and style. the height of the heel is important because it determines how comfortable the boot is. i prefer a block heel over a stiletto, especially as it gets colder and ice starts to form. the style is important because, well, you don’t want your boots to be ugly, do you? if you’re looking to add some inches to your height, a 3-5-inch heel should do the job.

a couple of things i keep in mind while wearing boots: wear ankle boots for pants that are loose or structured (pants over the boots), wear knee-high boots for extra coverage (mini-skirts), and leather over suede (weather durability).

moving on to flatter footwear, sneakers, and flats!

2. sneakers

sneakers are the perfect get around shoes! sneakers go with your casual white tee and blue jeans. any pair of jeans work! add a neutral sweater, or a button-up, or go for a monochromatic look (my favs)!

when looking for sneakers i tend to go for neutral colors or primary colors. by neutrals, i mean white or gray, and by primary colors, i mean white sneakers with accents. i love a good white sneaker or a sneaker with a pop of color.

3. ballet flats, mules, and sling-backs

ballet flats and mules can take any outfit from basic to elevated. wear with a basic top and jeans (or skirt) and instantaneously change the aura or impression of your look. i love to wear my flats with the classic button-up and jeans.

i am the boldest when it comes to flats, i love love color! the more color the better! while still i believe in having (and wearing) the classics, there are never too many flats. mules are something i am getting into. the manolo blahnik mules are an ode to the 2016 gucci fur slides while keeping in trend with the ballet flat-esque style. now, sling-backs can make an outfit look off or pull the look together. my fool-proof way of wearing sling-backs is with straight or wide-leg jeans, frilly skirts, and big cardigans or coats. these items help me balance the proportions of the shoe and the outfit.

4. bottoms

bottoms, bottoms, bottoms! it can be agreed that the staples of autumn are jeans and/or pants. with colder weather, we stow away the skirts and shorts and opt for elongated versions of both. finding ideally suited jeans or pants (at an affordable price) is like finding a golden ticket in a willy wonka’s chocolate bar. it’s becoming quite rare to find a good pair of jeans first try! my best finds have been at ZARA. my go-to fall outfit with jeans is a monochromatic look or a sweater and jeans. also wearing a tank top underneath a jacket or cardigan and jeans changes it up.

pants (hit up ZARA!), especially black pants, go with anything. no further explanation is needed.

tip: find good lounge sets, these are great for the days when you can’t seem to find an outfit or feel too tired to get yourself together but still want the put-together look.

finding skirts is totally different and luckily, more convenient. i would start with neutral colors (black, white, beige, or brown) and only add other colors if i can make multiple outfits with the item. i suggest wearing maxi and midi skirts with a pullover or chunky sweater. it can also be paired with a short-sleeved shirt with a sweater as a shawl or coverup. when it comes to mini skirts, i say wear ‘em, just bring tights. materials like leather, silk, satin, and suede are good for fall as well. mini skirts can go with sweaters and tight-fitting tops (like skims or other shapewear).

5. tops

tops, tops, tops! fall weather brings out sweaters and long-sleeved tops. personally, i love a good cardigan with jeans or a skirt and i normally wear a tank top or a body-con shirt underneath for added warmth. it’s the perfect transitional piece! another outfit i love to wear is a strappy silk top and black pants and i usually add a cardigan to the look (i get cold easily). you could also try the quilted vests and sweater vests trend, add a white button-up with some dark jeans to make the vest pop! and do not forget the standard look of the season, a sweater and jeans.

i recommend saving up for quality sweaters rather than buying one at h&m or ZARA. you’ll get a longer wear out of it and it’ll be less of an impulsive buy! for statement cardigans, i look at the brands sandro and maje! generally, when looking for fall/winter tops, the material is important. fabrics such as polyester, acrylic, and acetate should be avoided, but also if you have sensitive skin, fabrics such as wool should be avoided. [read more about fabrics here.]

6. dresses

dress up an outfit with a dress! whether it be casual or formal attire, wearing a dress can give off a put-together look, while only wearing one piece. a long-sleeved maxi sweater dress is a go-to for fall. want to switch it up? i suggest a dress with a prairie collar! want to wear those summer maxi dresses? add a cardigan (chunky or slim) to make the transition to colder weather! you can dress it up or down with boots, sneakers or flats!

7. coats & accessories

coats are so so so important for a look, especially in the colder months. you don’t want your coat to engulf your whole outfit, yet you don’t want the outfit to look smushed into your coat. picking the right coat is based on three things: warmth, weight, and color.

warmth is important for cold girlies (like me!), if a coat can’t keep me warm, i won’t get it no matter how cute it is. make sure your coat has good padding or lining inside, which makes all the difference when the temperatures drop.
the weight of a coat can determine how you’ll use it. you don’t want to be weighed down by unnecessary fabric or feel like your coat is going to fly away. the perfect coat is one where there is enough weight to keep its structure (not a flimsy coat) but not enough to put an overwhelming amount of pressure on your shoulders.
finally, color. tip: buy multiple coats. the secret to a good coat, is to have multiple of them. as always, buy your neutrals. then, grab a couple of statement color/material coats (pink, blue, satin, leather). don’t forget the standard trench coat!

a girl can never have too many bags! when picking a bag, i choose based on color and practicality. usually, i want my bag to match my outfit and to hold all my stuff. if you need a school bag, choose a neutral or dark color (and make sure it holds everything!). going out? choose a small bag with a pop of color or bright colors, it’ll be easy to find and easy to hold. traveling? get a big bag, something that can sit or slide on top of your suitcase. if none of those work, choose the bag that makes you the happiest! :)

i hope you find some inspiration for your fall wardrobes! if you want a link to the other clothing items, please comment below!