Fall Style Staples - The Solution Sisters

I love summer, but I love fall clothes. I know it’s weird, right, but it is true. I love fall colors, comfort and the options of various layers. Fall in North Carolina is spectacular, and I am gearing up for it. Today I am rounding up my 10 closet staples that you can mix and match for any occasion all season.

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As I turn my calendar to August and start thinking about school starting, football season, and all things fall, I get excited about the change of seasons. Adding a few closet staples each season is an added bonus to the fresh start. Before I shop, I do a closet inventory. If I didn’t wear it last year, it probably needs a new home.

Fall in North Carolina can be tricky. We can have 80 degree days up to Halloween. Being prepared to dress in layers in the key. It’s funny how we always think we need new fall sweaters, but in reality we don’t need those until January.

I tried to narrow down my top 10 items all mixed and matched that are easy, affordable and packable. Most of the pieces today are from Amazon and J.Crew. Fall is super busy at my house and the ease of Amazon is a life saver. I am always a J.Crew fan, their styles are timeless and are well made. Their teacher discount is an added bonus, too.

Dress

A classic long black dress is a closet staple that is extremely versatile. It can be dressed up for events or work with heels or booties and classic accessories. It can also be paired with white or black sneakers for a casual, more comfortable look. Being a teacher, I need something to cover my rear so I can bend down, sit on the floor, even walk the track at recess. This gives me a lot of options for wearability.

Blazer

This sweater blazer is the most worn item in my closet all throughout fall and winter. I love it so much I now have it in four colors. It is super soft and cozy and easy to layer for our insane fall temperature swings. This blazer can be paired with any shoe to quickly change from workwear to casual. I wore this so often last school year a student asked me if I had other clothes! Got to love an honest nine year old.

Sweater

Sweater | Dress | Jeans | Ponte Pants | Joggers

Booties | Black Sneakers | Leopard Heels

Belt | Hat | Tortoise Hoops | Leather Tote | Black Camera Bag

In North Carolina it is rare that we see really cold days in fall. This classic mock neck sweater with ¾ cuffed sleeves is perfect for our weather. The asymmetrical hemline is an added bonus. This beauty is perfectly paired with just about anything for any occasion. It runs true to size and is extremely comfortable.

Ponte Pants

Blazer | Denim Shirt | Blouse | Bodysuit | Ponte Pants

Booties | Black Sneakers | White Sneakers | Leopard Heels | Hiking Boots

The most versatile pant option in my closet, and I have them in numerous colors. These feel like leggings, but appear more formal. I can wear these all day at work while teaching, bending over, sitting, recess, you name it these pants can do it. These pair with any shoe for any occasion. They are comfortable enough to wear after work for my chauffeur duties after school.

Denim Shirt

Booties | Black Sneakers | White Sneakers | Leopard Heels | Hiking Boots

A good classic denim shirt is a closet staple. It is comfortable, versatile and can be worn in almost every season. You will be able to layer this with a blazer, vest, jacket, sweaters or wear alone. I love to mix and match this denim shirt with ponte pants, joggers, skirts, dresses, and even shorts. This is true to size and you won’t be disappointed.

Button Fly Denim

Jacket | Blazer | Blouse | Bodysuit | Jeans

Booties | Black Sneakers | White Sneakers | Leopard Heels | Hiking Boots

Classic denim is a must. These are perfect 9 inch high waist with added detail of the button fly. You will be happy with the stretch fabric that you can comfortably move in all day. These will not stretch out too much during the day, they will keep their fit. These run true to size for me.

Fall Accessories

Throughout fall I need comfortable basics I can wear most of the day and mix and match to make any outfit work. These booties and both the sneakers do the trick for me most days. It is going to take church or a major occasion for me to wear heels, but I love a good leopard. They really can be neutral and pair with just about anything for a good statement.

A solid pair of hiking boots will last you years. I think you will find yourself wearing them more often than just hiking. They are warm, waterproof and comfortable. I know there are more affordable dupes for these hiking boots, but I cannot attest to their durability. These have lasted years and will continue to be a workhorse in the closet.

Shoes

Booties | Black Sneakers | White Sneakers | Leopard Heels | Hiking Boots

Bags, Belt, Hat & Jewelry

Last fall I think I wore my leopard belt 4-5 days a week. Similar to the blazer, I am obsessed. I love the pop it adds to a basic outfit. In fall, I like to keep accessories to a minimum. Simple earrings with a classic tote is all I really need. For outdoor events, I still like to give my face some sun protection. This hat will be my go to this fall.

I hope some of these items inspired you to get excited and ready for fall. I know we have time on our side, it is still 95 here in North Carolina, but I’ll be ready for that first burst of cool air.