I’ve been spending a lot of time reflecting on my personal style lately—really zeroing in on the words that best capture what I want my wardrobe to feel like. After tossing around a few ideas, I landed on three: Classic, Fun, and Approachable. These descriptors just click for me, and I now keep them top of mind whenever I’m putting an outfit together. The beauty of these guiding principles? They almost always translate to outfits that are simple (but never boring—stylish, of course) and feel like me, no overcomplicating required.
Fall is when my personal style truly gets to shine, and living in New York makes that even more special—there’s something magical about the city when the leaves start changing and the air gets crisp. But here’s the thing: being in NYC also warps my sense of fall timing a little. I swear, it feels like fall arrives earlier here than it does elsewhere, even if the actual temperatures haven’t caught up yet. I’m not sure how to explain it—like, my brain is ready for sweaters and blazers weeks before the weather is—so if you get that vibe, let me know! Basically, we’re still a month (ish) away from being able to pull out the heavy-hitting fall pieces (think structured blazers, thick knits, or wool coats), which means it’s the perfect time to lean into the in-between pieces that bridge summer and fall.
I’m willing to bet that if you’re reading this, you already have some version of every piece I’m about to talk about in your own closet—and that’s exactly the point of a great simple fall outfit. The joy of this approach is that you can pull pieces from different seasons, years, and corners of your wardrobe, mix them together, and create something that feels fresh without buying anything new. It’s also a fantastic way to do a little mental inventory of what you own: take stock of the staples you reach for again and again, and figure out if there are any gaps or worn-out pieces that could use a refresh (no pressure—this is about working with what you have first!).
The Trench Coat
Let’s start with a true timeless hero: the trench coat. Honestly, I don’t think I need to sing its praises too loudly—it’s one of those pieces that speaks for itself. What I love most about trenches is their incredible versatility: they can be effortlessly chic for a workday, playful when paired with jeans and sneakers, and even polished enough for a more serious occasion (think a dinner out or a weekend errand run where you want to feel put-together).
Another win? Their lightweight design makes them the ultimate transitional staple. Right now, I’m throwing mine over crisp button-downs or simple tees for those mild fall days; as the temperature drops, it’ll layer perfectly over thick wool sweaters, turtlenecks, or even chunky knits without feeling bulky. This adaptability is why trenches never go out of style—they work with everything in your closet, no matter the season or vibe you’re going for.
Let’s talk about a non-negotiable wardrobe workhorse: the button down shirt. I don’t care what your personal style is—edgy, minimalist, bohemian, preppy—everyone needs a button down in their closet. It’s the ultimate chameleon piece, capable of fitting into any aesthetic with just a few tweaks, and it’s far more versatile than most people give it credit for.
Lately, I’ve been fully embracing my love for denim—specifically lighter washes, straight-leg cuts, and relaxed wide-leg styles that feel equal parts comfortable and intentional. Jeans are the ultimate classic for a reason: they’re the backbone of so many outfits, and the entire vibe of your look hinges on the style you choose. A pair of high-waisted skinny jeans reads sleek and polished; a slouchy wide-leg set feels laid-back and cool; cropped straight-legs strike that perfect balance between casual and put-together. They’re infinitely adaptable, working with everything from a crisp button down to a chunky sweater, a graphic tee to a silk camisole—no other piece in my closet pulls off that kind of versatility.
