The first day of fall is quickly approaching, and if you’ve been around here for a while, you know that fall is one of my favorite seasons! I love the hint of warm colors in my wardrobe and around my home, and I enjoy taking in all the beautiful new fall arrivals in stores.

However, there are two things that allow me to enjoy the fall season without feeling the need to acquire more—or very little:

1. Establishing a fall capsule wardrobe at the beginning of the season
2. Limiting seasonal home décor

Any shopping I do is intentional, carefully curating my wardrobe and home with pieces that complement what I already own and require minimal maintenance.  So, here we go!

Fall Capsule Wardrobe

Getting dressed shouldn’t feel stressful!

A seasonal capsule wardrobe where everything is visible, accessible, and works for your current lifestyle can make getting dressed much easier. It’s also a time- and money-saver. I recommend creating a seasonal capsule at least twice a year: Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer.

Start with an Audit & Edit

Your seasonal wardrobe should support the life you’re living today. When every piece fits, flatters, and serves a purpose, getting dressed becomes simpler and faster—and you can show up confidently.

Refer to my previous Prep for the Season blog for guidance on completing this step.

Know Your Seasonal Colors

Take note of current Pantone/trending colors as well as your personal seasonal colors. This can help when creating your capsule and gives you an idea of the colors you may see in stores if you’re looking to add a few complementary pieces.

Select Your Favorite Seasonal Accents

Think about the accessories that can easily transform your existing wardrobe: scarves, gloves, handbags, belts, tights, bracelets and brooches.

Look for new ways to style what you already own. Pinterest can be a great source of inspiration!

Identify Your Key Pieces

What are your go-to pieces for the season—the ones you enjoy wearing, feel good in, and know are comfortable?  Think cozy, classic, and chic:

• Light sweaters
• Cardigans
• Leather and denim jackets
• Blazers
• Blouses and shirts
• Jeans
• Trousers
• Denim and dressy skirts
• Dresses (knits)

Set these pieces aside and place them toward the front of your primary closet space for easy access throughout the season.

Don’t Forget Your Shoes & Boots

Before the season begins, inspect your fall shoes and boots. Do they need cleaning, polishing, or repairs?  Your minimum fall/winter shoe collection might include:

One for walking – sneakers
One for working – loafers or Mary Janes
One for dressing up – ballerinas or dressy heels
One for the weather – boots
One that lets your personality shine – animal print, a beautiful color, texture, or something uniquely YOU!

I typically gravitate toward suede and leather in the fall!

Make a Shopping List

Before you shop, make a list of the items, colors and identify clothing gaps you’re actually looking for. This helps you shop with intention instead of impulse.

Consider seasonal colors such as burgundy, chocolate brown, tan, olive, and animal print—but remember, you don’t need all of them!

Have Fun Creating New Combinations

Don’t be afraid to experiment with pieces you already own. One of the new combinations I’m looking forward to trying is navy + olive–it allows me to combine one of my seasonal colors, with a true fall staple.

If neutral colors are your thing, that’s perfectly fine too. But don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and experiment with new combinations within your existing wardrobe. You just might love it!

Fall Seasonal Decor

Have you entered a department or retail store lately? Fall decor seems to greet you right at the door. I was amazed to see Fall and Christmas decor in stores as early as July.

They’re reeling us in earlier and earlier—but we have choices. Stand strong!

Here are a few quick questions I ask myself before purchasing new seasonal décor:

Do I Already Own Something Similar?  No matter how beautiful that new wreath or centerpiece is, do I really need it? 

What did I use last year? Pull out what you already own before heading to the store.

Do I have room to store and maintain more? You may have the physical space, but do you really want to add another item to your list of things to organize, store, clean, and maintain?  Remember: The more you have, the more you have to maintain.

Can I Add a Few Small Touches Without Breaking the Bank?

You don’t need an entire new collection of décor to make your home feel seasonal.

Consider small touches such as:

• Candles
• Pillows
• A cozy throw
• A vase
• Floral picks

Focus on seasonal colors, textures, and ambiance rather than purchasing items covered with holiday names or specific seasonal sayings.

DON’T FALL FOR IT!

Once you realize there will always be endless options available for purchase, you can make a conscious choice not to fall into the trap of acquiring more simply because something is new or seasonal.

Instead, focus on creating a thoughtful and intentional approach to your wardrobe and home.

Start with what you have. Add only when you truly desire or need something new. And when you do acquire something, make sure it compliments what you already own.

Lastly, make sure your seasonal decor is organized and stored in a labeled bin or storage bag for easy access when the season rolls around again. There’s no point in having it if you can’t find it!

This fall, refine before you buy–Edit. Organize. Re-style. Repurpose. And if you shop—shop intentionally. Because enjoying a beautiful season doesn’t require bringing more into your home.

Sometimes, the best way to embrace the new season is to make the most of what you already have!