10 Fall Stylish Outfit Formulas

It’s fall, and it’s time to get dressed. The easy breezy days of summer are relaxed, for sure, but that spills into style, and many of us find ourselves living in tees and shorts all season long. By the time fall rolls around, we are ready for luxurious layers and leathers and all the fall things. There’s an elegance to fall dressing that is harder to capture in the warmer months, and it’s a welcome change for those of us who still enjoy the prospect of putting on real clothes.

This fall, we’re easing back into real life and real style with trends that range from the tailored (sharp suits, layers of structured pieces) to the comfortable (cozy knits and upscale loungewear). From vintage vibes to futuristic fashions, there is an outfit for everyone on this list.

These 10 outfit formulas will help you get dressed for fall with ease, and can be altered and adjusted to suit your style and lifestyle.

The New Sweater Set

Ribbed and cable knits are being fashioned into dresses as well as the new sweater sets, slinky-yet-cozy separates that make fall dressing a breeze. Whether your sweater set of choice includes a skirt or the new knit pull-on pants (often in a flare or bootcut silhouette) they offer an effortless approach to style. Pair them with mules or slides for a chic yet comfortable look.

The Frill of Fashion

A puff-sleeve, whether dramatic or subtle, is a huge trend for fall, and one that can flatter many shapes. If you already have broad shoulders, keep the volume at the arm, and not the shoulder, and look for a drapey knit or silky material for maximum flattery. A top is the easiest way to try this trend, and when paired with tailored trousers and flat slides, it makes an easy everyday outfit.

Denim on Denim

Mixing various shade of denim in the same outfit used to be a no-no, but this season the look is everywhere. Keep the darker denim on the half of your body that you want to minimize, and lighter washes of denim on the smaller half of your body for maximum flattery. Finish this look with neutral boots.

Laid Back Lace

A frilly lace top a la Bridgerton becomes a modern, wearable staple when paired with your favorite jeans. Choose a top in a lavish lace but a flattering silhouette for your body, and keep it the center of attention with simple jeans and sleek booties.

The Polished Prepster

Nothing looks cozier or more fall-ish than luxurious knits piled on top of each other, but this look can also be bulky and unflattering. An effortless way to look cozy-luxe is to pair a cozy sweater with polished leather pants, and then top the outfit with another sweater tied around your neck. This looks especially chic when both sweaters are neutrals in the same color family.

Effortless Elegance

A slim-fitting turtleneck and relaxed fit jeans get an easy yet instant upgrade with the addition of a structured blazer, preferably in one of the new menswear inspired patterns like plaid or check. Add a pair of loafers for a classic touch.

Fair Isle Fashion

The ski-inspired styles that are trending this season can be summed up in one timeless essential, the Fair Isle sweater. This cozy classic gets an instant update when paired with a satin midi skirt and chunky boots.

Long on Style

A neutral midi or maxi in your most flattering style is a shortcut to elegance, and looks gorgeous paired with a pair of knee high or over-the-knee boots. Complete the look with a structured bag.

Crisp and Colorful

The structured tailored pieces that are trending this season look even cooler in bold colors. Pick your pop color of choice for an unforgettable look that is still surprisingly effortless and punctuate the outfit with sleek boots in white or black.

One & Done

An all-in-one option for effortless fall style is the now perennially popular jumpsuit, updated in new colors and silhouettes for the season. A wider or flowy leg style offers a little drama, while a straighter leg version is a versatile everyday choice. Pair if with classic accessories for a polished look.

I hope these ideas have inspired you to add a few new pieces this season, combine them with old favorites, and create versions of these outfits that work for you!