By Jilly Rowan
Building a versatile yet practical wardrobe is much easier said than done -- it’s difficult to pull together pieces that are equal parts comfort and cute, that ultimately attest to your stylistic personality. But with a time capsule wardrobe, you can have an entire season's fits planned out with just a few pieces. Here are my top ten selections for your wardrobe this fall.
Leather
LEATHER, PEOPLE. A good leather jacket will never, ever, leave your closet. I've been wearing leather pants constantly -- they’re warm (almost too warm, if you're going to be hiking up Cardiac) and make you look polished. Leather boots are a staple, as well; we all know and love the classic Doc Marten. Even a leather crossbody can spice up an outfit as this fringe bag does.
Knits
Not only will they keep you warm, but they totally elevate an outfit. Try out a knit vest, and chuck it over a turtleneck or tee. Paloma Wool and Urban Outfitters offer great options, like this swirled sweater from Paloma and my dice vest from Urban. Knit sets, too! We saw these pop off over the summer, but there's no reason we can't revamp them for fall. Trade in the knit bra and skirt for knit trousers and sweaters -- H&M has beautiful knit palazzo pants, paired to match with a silky knitted sweater. Knit knows no boundaries!
Puffer jackets
Puffers are sure to be making the cut this fall and every fall after. They're being sold at Target, Urban Outfitters, and Forever 21. The classic North Face color-block puffers are all over Pinterest, too. You can go for a cropped fit, providing a bold silhouette and contrast, say to a pair of leggings or jeans. On the other hand, full-length, down-stuffed puffer jackets from brands like LL Bean are made to keep you warm from head to toe in the Pittsburgh weather.
Sneakers
It's time to get rid of your crusty, low-top Air Force Ones from high school -- the sole is literally worn out. Pick up a pair of Nike Dunks, Air Jordans, New Balances, Converse, or Sauconys. These comfortable sneakers time and time again prove to be everlasting in fashion trends.
Hats
Two words: Trucker. Hat. Keep your head warm with truckers by brands like Von Dutch and PacSun. Etsy creators make some dope ones, as well. They can add a pop of color to your outfit, or tie it all together in a monochromatic way. Sleek dad hats still make their way into my outfits, too. Nike makes great baseball caps, perfect to cover day 3..4.. or 5-day hair.
Overalls
I promise you, you’re not gonna look like a farmer. Overalls are adorable and make it so much easier to throw together an outfit. Pick a pair up the next time you go thrifting - I personally love Carhartt's.
Collared shirts
Go hit up your dad's closet and snag a few collared shirts. They're perfect to go on under vests or a sweater or overtop a tee. A pressed collared shirt has the opportunity to elevate an outfit and add some class.
Khakis
I will live and I will die by a good pair of Dickies. Khaki pants add another dimension versus your everyday denim. Try a pair of carpenter pants to add some boxiness to your apparel, or a lowrise, flair pair for a sleeker look.
Sweat set
A comfortable sweat set is something you can feel confident living in as the cold arrives in Pitt. Iets Frans, Champion, and Set Active all offer bold and bright sets. You can chuck on this hoodie and sweatpants combo with a pair of sneakers, a hat, and blazer, and call it a day.
Corsets
A good corset will never do you wrong. You can layer them over t-shirts, dresses, or blouses, or instead bear some skin under. Urban Outfitters, Edikted, and Zara have a bunch of options, whether you want to go the colorful route or be understated in darker tones.
