It’s the ideal time to update your fall wardrobe when the leaves begin to change and the air becomes crisp. Buying brand-new items isn’t the only way to update your wardrobe. At ThriftSmart for example, they believe you can create a chic, comfortable, and useful fall outfit without going over budget if you have a little imagination and shop around.

These essential pieces for your fall wardrobe will keep you warm and stylish throughout the season.

Cozy Outerwear: Stay Warm and Stylish

Fall is all about layering, and the key to staying warm while looking stylish is having the right outerwear. At ThriftSmart, we have a fantastic selection of coats and jackets that are perfect for the cooler weather.

The Versatile Trench Coat

A trench coat is an iconic piece that every fall wardrobe should include. It’s not only practical for those unpredictable autumn showers, but it also adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Whether you’re heading to the office or out for a casual weekend brunch, a trench coat can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion. When shopping at ThriftSmart, look for classic beige or navy options, which are timeless and versatile. Pair your trench coat with a cozy scarf and ankle boots for a polished fall look.

Classic Denim Jackets

Denim jackets are another fall staple that never goes out of style. They’re perfect for those early fall days when it’s still warm enough for lighter layers. A denim jacket can easily be layered over sweaters, long-sleeve tees, or even dresses to add a casual yet put-together vibe to your outfit. At ThriftSmart, you can find a variety of denim jackets, from classic blue washes to unique vintage finds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles, such as oversized or cropped, to find the one that fits your personal style.

Chunky Knit Sweaters

When it comes to fall fashion, chunky knit sweaters are an absolute must. They’re not only incredibly cozy but also versatile enough to pair with almost anything in your wardrobe. Whether you’re wearing them with jeans, skirts, or layered over dresses, knit sweaters add texture and warmth to your outfit. At ThriftSmart, we often have a selection of oversized sweaters in rich, autumnal colors like burgundy, mustard, and forest green. These colors are perfect for embracing the fall season in style.

Essential Footwear for Fall

Your footwear can make or break your fall outfits, so it’s important to choose pieces that are both stylish and practical. Here are some fall footwear essentials that you can find at ThriftSmart.

Ankle Boots for Every Occasion

Ankle boots are the ultimate fall footwear. They’re versatile, comfortable, and can be worn with just about anything—from jeans and leggings to dresses and skirts. Whether you prefer a sleek leather pair for a more polished look or suede boots for a cozy, casual vibe, ThriftSmart has a variety of options to choose from. Look for neutral colors like black, brown, or tan, which are easy to mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe.

Comfortable Loafers and Flats

As the weather transitions, loafers and flats are perfect for those days when it’s not quite cold enough for boots. They offer comfort and style, making them ideal for both casual and workwear outfits. A pair of classic leather loafers can add a touch of sophistication to your look, while ballet flats in autumnal colors can provide a feminine touch. ThriftSmart’s shoe section is stocked with gently-used loafers and flats that are both affordable and stylish, making it easy to find the perfect pair for your fall wardrobe.

Rain Boots for Unpredictable Weather

Fall weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers popping up out of nowhere. That’s why having a reliable pair of rain boots is essential. Rain boots don’t have to be purely functional—they can be stylish too! Look for durable materials and a comfortable fit to ensure your rain boots will last throughout the season.

Accessories to Complete Your Fall Look

No fall wardrobe is complete without the right accessories. They’re the finishing touches that can take your outfit from simple to standout.

Scarves: The Ultimate Fall Accessory

Scarves are one of the most versatile accessories you can own, especially in the fall. They add an extra layer of warmth and can instantly elevate your outfit. Whether you prefer chunky knit scarves, lightweight silk ones, or something in between, ThriftSmart has a variety of styles and patterns to choose from. Look for scarves in autumnal shades like rust, olive, or plum to complement your fall wardrobe. You can drape them over your shoulders, wrap them around your neck, or even use them as a shawl on cooler days.

Hats and Beanies

Hats and beanies are not only practical for keeping your head warm, but they also add a stylish touch to your fall outfits. A wide-brimmed wool hat can give your look a chic, bohemian vibe, while a cozy knit beanie is perfect for more casual, laid-back days. At ThriftSmart, you can find a range of headwear options to suit your style. Don’t be afraid to try on different styles and colors until you find the perfect one that fits your fall aesthetic.

Statement Belts and Bags

Accessories like belts and bags are essential for pulling your fall outfits together. A statement belt can cinch your waist and add definition to oversized sweaters or dresses, while a structured bag in a rich autumnal color can add a pop of color to your look. ThriftSmart’s accessory section is filled with unique finds, from vintage leather belts to stylish handbags. These pieces not only add function but also help to express your personal style.

Layering Essentials for Cooler Days

As temperatures drop, layering becomes key to staying warm while maintaining your style. Here are some layering essentials that you can easily incorporate into your fall wardrobe.

Long-Sleeve Tees and Turtlenecks

Long-sleeve tees and turtlenecks are the foundation of any good fall layering system. They’re perfect for wearing under sweaters, blazers, or even on their own for milder days. ThriftSmart offers a variety of basic tees and turtlenecks in neutral colors, which are great for mixing and matching with other pieces in your wardrobe. Look for high-quality fabrics like cotton or wool to ensure they keep you warm and last through the season.

Cardigans and Light Sweaters

Cardigans are another essential layering piece for fall. They’re easy to throw on over any outfit and provide just the right amount of warmth. Whether you prefer long, draped cardigans or shorter, more fitted styles, ThriftSmart has a wide selection to choose from. Light sweaters are also perfect for layering, especially when paired with a turtleneck or a collared shirt underneath. These pieces add dimension to your outfit and allow you to adjust your warmth as needed throughout the day.

Warm Leggings and Tights

When the weather gets chilly, leggings and tights are your best friends. They’re perfect for layering under dresses, skirts, or even under pants for extra warmth. Look for thicker, fleece-lined options for those particularly cold days.

How to Update Your Fall Wardrobe

It’s time to start thinking about changing your fall outfit when the leaves start to turn and the air becomes chilly. As the temperature drops, it’s time to replace your summer tank tops and shorts with sturdy boots, fashionable coats, and comfy sweaters. Modernizing your fall wardrobe doesn’t have to be costly or complicated.

You can update your wardrobe and maintain your style throughout the season with a few easy suggestions.

1. Start by Decluttering Your Closet

Before you add anything new to your wardrobe, it’s a good idea to take stock of what you already have. Decluttering your closet is the first step to making room for new fall clothes. Go through your wardrobe and take out anything that you didn’t wear over the summer or that no longer fits. Be honest with yourself—if you haven’t worn something in a year, it’s probably time to let it go.

As you go through your clothes, separate them into three piles: keep, donate, and toss. The “keep” pile should include items you love and wear regularly. The “donate” pile is for clothes that are still in good condition but no longer suit your style. Finally, the “toss” pile is for items that are worn out or damaged beyond repair. Once you’ve decluttered, you’ll have a better idea of what you need to update for fall.

2. Assess Your Fall Wardrobe Essentials

Now that you’ve decluttered your closet, it’s time to assess what fall wardrobe essentials you already own and what you might need to purchase. Some key pieces for a fall wardrobe include:

• Sweaters: Look for cozy knits in neutral colors like beige, gray, and navy. These can be easily layered over shirts or under jackets.
• Jackets: A stylish jacket is a must for fall. Consider a classic denim jacket, a trendy bomber jacket, or a warm wool coat.
• Boots: Ankle boots, knee-high boots, or even combat boots are great options for fall. Choose a pair that is comfortable and versatile enough to wear with different outfits.
• Jeans: A good pair of jeans is a fall staple. Dark wash jeans are perfect for this season and can be dressed up or down.
• Scarves: A scarf not only adds warmth but also a pop of color or pattern to your outfit.

As you assess your fall wardrobe essentials, make a list of any items you might need to purchase and more importantly what you can mend and alter. Getting the clothes you already own and love altered or mended is the most time saving, money saving and environment saving thing you can do. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys when you go shopping.

3. Shop Smart for Fall Clothing

When it comes to shopping for fall clothes, it’s important to shop smart. This means looking for quality pieces that will last you several seasons, rather than trendy items that may go out of style quickly. Here are a few tips for smart fall shopping:

• Invest in Classics: Classic pieces like a wool coat or a pair of leather boots are worth the investment because they never go out of style. These items can be worn year after year and will always look chic.
• Mix and Match: Look for pieces that can be easily mixed and matched with what you already have in your wardrobe. This will give you more outfit options without having to buy a lot of new clothes.
• Shop Sales: Keep an eye out for sales, especially at the end of the season. You can often find great deals on fall clothing that you can wear next year.
• Check Thrift Stores: Thrift stores and consignment shops are great places to find unique and affordable fall clothing. You might even find some vintage treasures!

4. The Importance of a Tailor in Your Fall Wardrobe

One often overlooked aspect of updating your wardrobe is the importance of a good tailor. Even the most expensive or stylish clothes can look sloppy if they don’t fit properly. A tailor can make sure that your clothes fit you perfectly, which can make all the difference in how you look and feel.

Read Also: The Top 10 Fall Fashion Trends to Try This Season

Here’s why a tailor is essential:

• Perfect Fit: Off-the-rack clothes are made to fit a variety of body types, but they may not fit you perfectly. A tailor can adjust the fit of your clothes to flatter your body shape. Whether it’s hemming pants, taking in a dress, or adjusting the sleeves of a jacket, these small alterations can make a big difference.
• Extend the Life of Your Clothes: Instead of discarding clothes that don’t fit well or are slightly damaged, take them to a tailor. Simple fixes like replacing a zipper, sewing a button, or mending a seam can extend the life of your clothes and save you money in the long run.
• Personal Style: A tailor can also help you customize your clothes to better reflect your personal style. For example, you can change the length of a skirt, taper the legs of pants, or add darts to a blouse. These changes can make your clothes unique and tailored to your taste.

When updating your fall wardrobe, don’t forget to consider how a tailor can help you make the most of your clothes. Investing in alterations can transform an ordinary piece of clothing into something that feels like it was made just for you.

5. Transitioning Your Wardrobe from Summer to Fall

As the weather cools down, you’ll need to start transitioning your wardrobe from summer to fall. This doesn’t mean you have to put away all your summer clothes—some pieces can be layered and worn throughout the fall. Here’s how to transition your wardrobe:

• Layering: Layering is key for fall. You can wear your favorite summer dress with a cozy cardigan or a denim jacket. Pair your summer tops with a warm scarf or a chunky knit sweater. Layering not only keeps you warm but also allows you to get more use out of your summer clothes.
• Add Fall Colors: Swap out your bright summer colors for richer fall hues like burgundy, mustard, olive green, and navy. These colors are perfect for the season and can be easily incorporated into your wardrobe.
• Switch Out Footwear: Replace your sandals with ankle boots or closed-toe shoes. Boots are a fall essential and can be worn with dresses, skirts, and jeans.
• Incorporate Textures: Fall is all about cozy textures like wool, corduroy, and flannel. Incorporate these fabrics into your outfits to give them a more autumnal feel.

6. Take Care of Your Fall Wardrobe

Once you’ve updated your fall wardrobe, it’s important to take care of your clothes so they last throughout the season. Here are some tips for maintaining your fall wardrobe:

• Store Summer Clothes Properly: Before you put away your summer clothes, make sure they are clean and dry. Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent any damage or mildew.
• Clean Your Fall Clothes Regularly: Wash your sweaters, jackets, and scarves according to the care labels. Regular cleaning will keep them looking fresh and prevent any buildup of dirt or oils.
• Rotate Your Shoes: To extend the life of your boots and shoes, rotate them regularly. Give them time to air out between wears and keep them clean by wiping off any dirt or mud.
• Invest in a Steamer: A steamer is a great investment for keeping your fall clothes wrinkle-free. It’s gentle on fabrics and can be used on everything from sweaters to coats.

7. Stay True to Your Style

While updating your fall wardrobe, remember to stay true to your personal style. Trends come and go, but your style is what makes you unique. Choose pieces that you love and feel confident wearing. Whether you prefer a classic look or something more trendy, make sure your fall wardrobe reflects who you are.

Updating your fall wardrobe should be a fun and exciting process. With these tips, you can create a stylish and functional wardrobe that will keep you looking great all season long.