These 10 Fall Outfit Formulas Will Outlast Every Trend
Wear them for years to come.


Don’t let the headline fool you: I love a good trend. (Lately, I’ve been obsessing over leopard print coats and retro cord necklaces, both of which appeared across several Fall 2025 runways.) In general, though, my personal style is defined by a pared-down sensibility. Currently, my wish list is brimming with classics guaranteed to last a lifetime, largely inspired by savvy street stylers whose fall outfits exemplify the minimalism I'm always drawn to.
A quick glimpse at my autumn mood board will reveal soft suede jackets tactfully layered over straight-leg jeans, cozy sweaters paired with sweeping maxi skirts, and sharp trench coats worn over tailored trousers. These easygoing outfits all have one thing in common: They're rooted in streamlined wardrobe staples, which take the hassle out of fall dressing. And for that very reason, I’ll be recreating them this season.
If you also lean toward the more simple side of the sartorial spectrum—and you don’t want to overthink your outfits—scroll on for an edit of 10 anti-trend fall uniforms, plus every single piece you need to bring them to life. Embrace being a shameless outfit repeater this season.
Going Green
Enhance your fall wardrobe with olive green.
My closet is mostly filled with shades of black, beige, and white. However, I’d like to embrace a bit more color—while still adhering to a neutral palette. So, I’ll be buying a delicious olive green trench coat to wear with sturdy jeans, black boots, and a leather handbag.
Thigh-High
This is your excuse to hike up those hemlines.
Although temperatures are finally dropping, we’re still bound to experience some warmer days this fall. (Plus, Princess Diana taught us that, with the right oversized top, shorts make for excellent autumnal layering.) For those balmy moments, slip into a mini skirt that won’t cause you to break a sweat. Finish things off with fall must-haves, like a blazer and a turtleneck.
Sweater Weather
It’s time to pull on the layers.
There’s nothing I love more than bundling up in a sumptuous fall sweater. As for styling, I’ll follow this fashionista’s lead by cinching my look with a sleek belt.
All About Suede
No autumn wardrobe is complete without a suede jacket.
Some fashion folks might call suede a trend, but I’d argue that this velvety fabric is more timeless than anything. Amp up the Western vibes by teaming a brown suede jacket with wide-leg jeans and a collared top.
Late-Night Look
Here’s an easy formula that’ll simplify your rotation of going-out outfits.
Steal this sultry outfit for your next night out. All you’ll need is a draped top, a sweeping skirt, sharp heels, and a chic shoulder bag. This look is beyond perfect for drinks, dinner, and dancing!
Dress It Up
Copy this outfit, and you’ll make heads turn.
Formal dress codes call for a polished frock, a pair of pointy pumps, and an elegant clutch. Whether you’re heading to an upscale date night or a cocktail party, this outfit combination will rise to the occasion.
Leather Layers
There’s something so effortlessly cool about a lustrous leather jacket.
If you don’t already own a sleek leather jacket, do yourself a favor and invest in one (or two). Wear yours with a black top, jeans, and sneakers or lofty boots.
The Non-Negotiable Trench
When building your fall capsule wardrobe, don’t forget to throw a trench into the mix.
Ask any style connoisseur, and they’ll tell you that a khaki trench coat is an absolute essential. With an enduring appeal, it’s the sort of staple that you’ll wear forever.
Autumn Whites
Yes, you can wear white past Labor Day.
You've likely heard the convention that white clothes should be reserved for warmer months—but I’m here to tell you that rules are meant to be broken! The secret to styling shades of vanilla and ivory for chilly temperatures involves layering them with darker, fall-forward outerwear.
Business Casual
Introducing your new go-to fall work outfit.
If you want to round out your assortment of autumn workwear, this office-friendly uniform is for you: The buttoned jacket and tailored trousers add a touch of sophistication, while the ballet flats are comfortable enough to race between meetings with ease. Stuff all your desk-side belongings in a suede tote, and you’ll be good to go.
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Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers trend forecasting and shopping stories, highlighting runway-inspired styles and a blend of emerging and established brands. Prior to joining Marie Claire, she worked as a freelance editor for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE, specializing in e-commerce content and curating seasonal trend reports. Earlier in her career, she worked at Town & Country, developing a strong portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.
Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, she served as editor-in-chief of The Walk, the university's fashion magazine, and completed internships at Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.