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A classic wardrobe is made up of basics which are then turned into outfit formulas-a no-fail set of ways to wear your staple items that will guarantee a chic, stylish, and put-together look in no time. No matter the season, we love a good set of go-to outfit formulas. But you know what we love even more? Classic fall outfit formulas that look good on different body types. Because our first post highlighting summer outfits on different body types was such a hit, my sister and I are back!
From chambray shirts to plaid pants to sweaters, in this post, you can get an idea of how these looks and pieces will fit you whether you’re taller, shorter, curvier, straighter, or somewhere in between. It’s time to get inspired and stock your wardrobe with classic pieces to look your best with little effort this fall!
This post is sponsored by Nordstrom. Thank you for supporting the brands that support My Chic Obsession.
Outfit #1: black jeans + long-sleeve tee + blazer + loafers
With the variety of brands and sizing, Nordstrom was an easy choice for our wardrobe basics shopping. They were highlighted in our favorite places we loved shopping from for a reason! Shopping from Nordstrom Made Brands, we were able to get all our classics (and a few fun items) for fall.
And as you know, the fall and winter months are the perfect time to break out a pair of classic black jeans. And if you don’t have a pair yet, then this is your sign! Black is so versatile and complements all the fall staples, from denim shirts to green utility jackets.
Straight-leg jeans are a universally good choice and can be a bit more forgiving on different body types than skinny jeans, which is why we opted for those. Because as you can see, they are slimming without being skin-tight.
If you’re someone that still likes to feel put-together while at home, then consider this pair as the stretch in the material makes them feel very comfortable to wear, as far as jeans go! (They do have subtle distressing, FYI, but if you’re looking for a pair that is distress-free, then check out these.)
A basic long-sleeve tee is a must-have for fall. Not only can you wear it on its own, but it makes the perfect layering piece for all your fall outerwear choices, whether you pick a cardigan, trench coat, or blazer.
If you want to experiment with pattern mixing, pick a striped shirt and mix it with a plaid blazer (like we did). The end result is subtle yet stylish. Keep in mind that this striped shirt is thin as it’s meant to be a layering piece, but not so thin that it feels cheap. Plus, it’s very soft!
For an updated twist, consider completing your outfits with chunky loafers this season. But if that’s not your style, no worries. A pair of timeless loafers will look just as good!
The beauty of this outfit formula is that you could switch out the shoes for any of the classics, depending on what you’re feeling. Choose white sneakers for a look that reads casual chic or ankle boots for heading into the office.
Timeless outfit formula? Check!
Outfit #2: plaid pants + chambray shirt + loafers
It’s not fall unless you break out a plaid print. (And have apple cider doughnuts and a pumpkin spice latte, among other things, but we can’t be here all day.)
We love pieces that look elevated without sacrificing comfort, so a pair of plaid pants with an elastic waist is a fun (and comfortable) way to wear this print this season. An elastic waist is a good pick for multiple body types, especially if you tend to fluctuate in weight. This particular pair is roomy and they look elevated without making your body feel restricted.
Plaid pants are more versatile than you think and a chambray or denim shirt is a good pairing as it grounds the look and adds a bit more interest than a basic tee. This chambray shirt has a cropped fit which we like as it doesn’t hug your midsection, yet it’s long enough to still be tucked in. For a J.Crew look, cuff and roll the sleeves for an effortless styling trick.
These two main pieces, plaid pants and a chambray shirt, leave a lot of room for your personal style and comfort to shine when completing the look.
Choose chunky loafers for a preppy chic look, mule slides for something simple yet polished, or ankle boots to dress it up. Start with basics and layer in your favorite extras and accessories for an outfit that shines and feels like you. Elevate your outfit even more with a layer, whether that be a cardigan, blazer, trench coat, or utility jacket!
Outfit #3: jeans + sweater + utility jacket + ankle boots + scarf
There are some just clothing pieces that make up the essence of fall, and a sweater is one of them. From cashmere to chunky knits, the options can be overwhelming. And though we’re pro-cashmere all the way, this sweater is a good in-between and more affordable too.
We love that it’s slightly slouchy, perfect for those who tend to carry their weight in the middle. For body types with a rounder midsection, a sweater that skims instead of highlights is the sweater to choose.
A sweater paired with jeans is a simple combo you can never go wrong with, but we won’t stop at that. By layering in the fall accessories, you take simple pieces and create a go-to outfit formula.
sweater | jacket | jeans | boots | scarf
Whether you call it a military jacket, utility jacket, or anorak jacket (and they’re all slightly different), the deep green this fall jacket offers is a perfect fall color. And though it’s not so bold that it steals the show, it adds a pop of color to this black and beige outfit.
Though technically a military jacket, the style of this jacket feels a touch more unique than the anorak jacket that you tend to see everywhere. We love this one and can see us wearing it all fall with everything from stripes to leopard print and even over floral dresses with fall booties. It’s a perfect transition piece that will also shine when fall is in full swing.
If you’re in the market for a fall and winter scarf, this pick is oh so cozy and delightfully oversized- so many wrapping opportunities! We’re showcasing just two of the ways you could wear it.
Outfit #4: black jeans + striped shirt + utility jacket + ankle boots
Now that we’re nearing the last of the looks, have you noticed that we’ve been creating different outfits using the same pieces? That was the goal! To show you how you can create several classic fall outfit formulas, no matter your body type or budget. Because buying these key pieces will set you up for a stylish and versatile fall wardrobe, with a little bit of mixing and matching.
Though this outfit combination is not revolutionary, sometimes you don’t reinvent the wheel. You just wear it proudly. Black + stripes + green is one of those “it’s very popular, but there’s a reason why” looks that are a must-have to wear come fall. Fall colors with a pop of print for interest- yes, please!
shirt | jacket | jeans | boots
We love how a heeled ankle boot looks paired with the military jacket (contrast of chic yet edgy), but this could be a great place to bring in a print too. Leopard print loafers or flats would look so stylish!
Outfit #5: black jeans + chambray shirt + blazer + loafers
Notice how this outfit feels new yet we haven’t introduced any new pieces? Oh, the beauty of wardrobe staples. For a look that reads J.Crew-meets-prep-school, pair your staple black bottoms (jeans or pants) with a chambray shirt and a blazer.
The pop of blue from your chambray shirt breaks up and brightens the outfit, while still keeping it looking fall-appropriate. The contrast of a casual shirt paired with a blazer is what makes this outfit so desirable. We love this blazer because though it looks nice, it’s roomy and relaxed, feeling easy and comfortable to wear.
chambray shirt | blazer | jeans
If you work in an office, then this is a great outfit to add to your rotation. Though certainly not limited to just the office! Anytime you want to look a little casual and a little chic, break out this number.
And if you want to add some interest to your outfit, that can easily be done with printed shoes or a printed tote bag. I’m in favor of leopard, but a beautiful rich cognac shoe or tote bag would pop against these tones too.
Related: Your Guide to a Chic and Classic Work Capsule Wardrobe
Outfit #6: plaid pants + sweater + ankle boots
Whether it’s a busy day with no time to spend in your closet or a busy week with no mental capacity to outfit plan, everyone can appreciate the beauty of a 3-piece outfit. It’s simple yet foolproof, and not every outfit needs to be new and exciting to work and look polished.
This timeless look just requires three pieces: plaid pants, a sweater, and ankle boots. Though the beauty of this look is that you could choose any shoes you want, from loafers to slides.
Oversized sweaters tend to look best with some sort of half tuck, but you’ve got to think of your body and comfort level first. Though this outfit can work on its own, layering some necklaces would add that extra detail to this look. Or as the weather gets chilly, a scarf!
6 classic fall outfit formulas are just the beginning. We couldn’t possibly list all our favorites in this post, but good news, we’ve listed them elsewhere- in our capsule wardrobe.
Because a capsule wardrobe means that you’ll have an unlimited amount of classic fall outfit formulas to create out of these key pieces!
Up Next: Classic Fall Capsule Wardrobe (Shopping List, Outfit Ideas, & More!)
