I’m not quite ready to give up my floaty summer dresses just yet, but it’s the time of year that I start dreaming about fall fashion. Having spent most of my career in the fashion industry, it’s a hard habit to break, whether I need new clothes or not (and many would argue that I don’t!).

To avoid making expensive mistakes, I review my fall wardrobe and identify the pieces I lived in. Then, I fill in the gaps. This process allows me to create a capsule wardrobe that works seamlessly from early fall through winter.

This year, I’ve rounded up three capsule collections that can be easily mixed and matched. I discovered some great basic items with updated silhouettes (jeans and skirts are becoming narrower), fun colors (nothing beats a pop of red!), and plenty of layering pieces to help transition into the cooler months.

Casual Capsule:

Peridot La Ligne lightweight cardigan: I love layers and lightweight cashmere is my favorite. This cardigan can add a pop of current color to your wardrobe (also comes in lots of colors). $325

Short sleeve light-weight white cashmere polo: A great transitional item to feel instantly pulled together, and an easy way to wear a sweater under a jacket. More colors.   $130

A REAL workhorse raincoat: waterproof and lined to take you straight from fall to winter:
$358

I live in sneakers and here’s a dressy pair I’m adding to my rotation for fall (also in black): $195

If you live in the country, the most useful shoe is a rubber slide. These are on the elegant side!
Sea Vees Marin Mule. $140 more colors.

I bought a pair of lightweight trouser jeans at Riverlane and live in them. I believe they are sold out, but here’s a facsimile: $88

Such a cute cashmere vest to wear now or layer with a shirt or tee later. Bonus! It’s button back and reversible! More colors available $195

An everyday suede cross-body at a great price. Quince Bag $99.90.

Classic Transition Capsule:

Slim long pencil skirt, back slit in a comfy cotton modal fabric: On sale at Everlane: $59

A chic collared wool jacket in Dark Red. $198 

Wide leg Everywhere Ponte pant, bulletproof, and the sort of stretchy comfy pant you’ll reach for every day: $100.

The black elbow sleeve turtleneck that works with everything: $75

Update your white tee with this satin mock neck twist top. More colors available. $88 

This red suede Banana Republic slide is a dupe for The Row at a much better price. More colors. $180

Slim Wide Leg Full Length Jeans: I own this jean in the crop version and it’s a perfect not-too-wide leg. Currently on sale for $109.50 

This tote in walnut suede may help me get over my stranglehold on my classic LL Bean. LOVE the color. $298 

Transitional Travel Capsule:

La Ligne pull-on wide-leg satin pant: I love a pant that can be dressed up or down. Pull it on with a tee shirt for day or the silky bow top for evening. Lots of colors available. $295.

Lizzie Fortunato Necklace: A basic chunky necklace when you want to limit the jewelry you travel with (and not bring the expensive stuff!). Change up the look by adding charms.  $230

A stretchy midi dress that won’t wrinkle in an on-trend color, with forgiving shirring detailing and so packable. More colors available. $99

I’m not big into “sets” but I’d wear this one, with a jersey cardigan that can be tossed over anything else in your wardrobe (and reminds me of the classic Agnes B.) and a knit wide leg pant. Perfect for the flight. 

Top: $168.

Pant: $168   

A great white tee by Velvet (check Swish in Guilford for a local source for Velvet tees). $83

A fresh look for denim: Slim (not tight), straight and low rise: $79.95

The black elbow sleeve turtleneck that works with everything: $75

Silky Bow Blouse to throw over the slim jean or wide leg satin trouser:  $98