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the style excess antidote

The Art of Fall Dressing: How to Master the Season’s Most Coveted Looks

Fall invites us to reimagine our wardrobes. But as you may know, iconic style is not about the overdone trends or fleeting fads; it’s about thoughtful style—pieces that are as effortlessly chic as they are timeless. Inspired by the quietly commanding aesthetics of brands like The Row and Khaite, fall dressing becomes a study in balance: cozy but polished, practical but sophisticated.

Here’s your guide to mastering fall outfits that don’t just look good but feel good—because as always, the best looks are about substance as much as style.


1. Layering: The Key to a Perfect Fall Wardrobe

When it comes to fall outfits, layering isn’t just a necessity—it’s an art form. The trick to getting it right lies in textures, proportions, and knowing when to stop. Think of layering as a way to play with silhouettes while adding warmth without bulk.

Start with your base layer: a fitted turtleneck or a cashmere knit that feels like a second skin. On top, drape a slouchy blazer or an oversized coat—both staples for the minimalist muse. Finish with a tailored trench or a wrap coat in earthy, neutral tones like camel, olive, or charcoal.

Style Tip: Scandinavian style icon Pernille Teisbaek is a master at this. She often juxtaposes a structured coat over a softer, oversized knit or plays with layers by adding a longline vest under her outerwear for a sleek yet dynamic look. When in doubt, remember: contrast is your best friend. Soft textures against sharp lines create the visual tension that makes fall dressing interesting.

Scarfs & sweaters

 

double wrapped

 

go extra on the blazer

 

2. Statement Outerwear: Your Fall Hero Piece

Outerwear is the unsung hero of fall outfits. Opt for classics: it’s all about timeless, investment pieces—coats and jackets that instantly elevate your look without trying too hard.

Go for longline, tailored coats in classic cuts, like a double-breasted wool coat or an impeccably structured trench. A quilted jacket or a leather trench can add that bit of edge without tipping into trend territory.

Style Inspiration: Look to brands like The Row and Khaite for outerwear that walks the line between sharp tailoring and effortless ease. A sleek, oversized coat in a neutral palette can transform even the most basic fall outfit into something worthy of the front row.

chocolate brown

 

structured

 

short 'n sweet

 

3. The Perfect Pair of Boots: Grounded Elegance

If fall had a signature type of shoe, it would be a boot. Whether you gravitate toward knee-high leather boots, chunky Chelsea boots, or sleek ankle styles, a good pair of boots is the foundation of any fall look.

Trending Now: Knee-high leather boots are everywhere, offering both elegance and warmth when paired with midi skirts or dresses. For a more laid-back vibe, opt for chunky-soled Chelsea boots or combat boots that add a rugged edge to your tailored outfits.

Pro Tip: Pair boots with unexpected pieces. Style chunky boots with lightweight skirts or slip dresses, grounding floaty fabrics with tougher footwear for a juxtaposition that feels fresh and modern.

Biker boots

 

classic knee-high boots

 

chunky flat

 

4. Effortless Knitwear: The Ultimate Comfort

Fall is synonymous with cozy knitwear, but this season, it’s less about oversized sweaters and more about refined pieces that hug the body in all the right ways. A fitted ribbed turtleneck or a lightweight cashmere knit can be layered under a blazer, while a belted cardigan offers both warmth and structure when worn over a slim base layer.

The Knit Dress: For an instant outfit, opt for a knit dress that flatters your silhouette without overwhelming it. Paired with knee-high boots and a tailored coat, it’s an easy, elegant look that works for everything from brunch to boardroom.

Style Tip: Pair a minimalist knit dress with an oversized blazer or trench coat. It’s an easy way to achieve that effortless, Scandinavian-cool look that’s as stylish as it is wearable.

grey wool knit

 

comfortable col

 

soft & matching set

 

Shop the Fall edit

 
Shop at Cult Gaia
 
Shop at Khaite
 
Shop at Cult Gaia
 
Shop at Cult Gaia
 
Shop at Camilla and Marc
 
Shop at Victoria Beckham
 
Shop at Khaite
 
Shop at Khaite
 
Shop at Khaite
 
Shop at Khaite
 
Shop at SIR.