Okay, confession time: my favorite part about summer changing to fall is 100% creating a fall capsule wardrobe. It might be giving very basic, but something about this season makes me very intentional with what I wear and how I present myself. But let’s also be honest: between working from home, homeschooling kiddos, and juggling all. the. things., getting dressed sometimes feels like another chore or an evening afterthought.

But here’s the thing: as cliche as it sounds, I’ve noticed that when my closet is full of intentional pieces that are easy to mix and match, and are comfy but cute, I feel a little more put-together and productive.

What’s a Capsule Wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is just a fancy way of saying: less is more when it comes to your wardrobe. Instead of a closet stuffed with things you never wear, you focus on a smaller collection of intentional pieces that you love, that fit you well, and that you can mix and match easily.

The WFH Mom Fall Capsule Wardrobe Essentials

For the work-from-home mom, think comfy jeans, and a few basics that can go from a Zoom meeting to a Target run. Here’s what is in my capsule wardrobe for this fall (*Two things to note: 1) I’m completely starting from scratch since losing most of my postpartum weight, so most of my items are pretty neutral and basic to build a foundation, and 2) fall weather doesn’t hit Atlanta until late October.*):

Tops

Think a t-shirt to layer with, basic long-sleeve tees, and maybe one or two nicer tops for when you have a video call or are going out and want to look more polished.

White t-shirt: I have mine in white and I can wear it by itself on warmer days, or layer it under a jacket or cardigan for those cooler days.

Tank top(s): I have one in both white and black, and use them as layering pieces as well.

White button-down: this is such a versatile item that is so easy to dress up or down! This is definitely a staple in every season.

Two - three nicer tops: these are for when I want to elevate my casual, or pair with a nicer bottom for a more polished look. I prefer these to be in color since my closet is so neutral.

Bottoms

Think a good pair of feel-good jeans, comfy leggings or joggers, and a nice pair of trousers for when casual isn’t an option. If fall arrives slowly where you are like it does in Atlanta, shorts are a good option too.

Jeans: a good pair that are comfortable, stylish, and practical

Shorts: I have a set in black and another in tan. The first day of fall came with 90 degree weather, here, and my tank and shorts were the MVP for letting me stay cool without sacrificing style.

Trousers: I’ve decided to try something new and forgo leggings and joggers this season. I’m excited to dress up with these pants when I need to, and even dress them down with more casual pieces like a white tee, sneakers, and a fitted baseball cap.

Dresses

Dresses can go a long way - you can wear them alone, layer them, or even wear them as a skirt! I am also trying something new here, and using a satin/silk dress as my only dress of the season. I’m excited to get creative with this!

Layers

Think cardigans, jackets, blazers, and vests! Perfect for layering when the temps start to dip. Bonus points if it feels like you’re wrapped in a blanket but still looks cute!

Cardigan: I mean, cardigans just scream “fall vibes,” don’t they? I’m going with my long, tan cardigan duster that I’ve had in my closet for a couple of years, even though I am dreaming of a cropped cream or black one (maybe next capsule!).

Denim jacket: like the white button-down, this is a must-have in every wardrobe, in every season.

Blazer: I haven’t needed to wear a blazer since before I had Eli seven years ago when I was in the corporate world. I’m excited to explore mixing business pieces with more casual pieces like jeans.

Shoes

Ah, this is where we can get in trouble! But just think of the necessities, here.

Sneakers: personally, my pick is the white, everyday sneaker like the Adidas Stan Smith or Nike Air Force 1.

Sandals: again, we’re in Atlanta, ya’ll, so I’ve got two pairs: a black and a tan. I’m enjoying my toes out while I still can!

Slip-ons: I have a black pair and (you guessed it!) a tan pair for those cooler days when I need to run out the door but still look like I put some effort into my outfit.

Booties: these are also always a staple in a fall capsule wardrobe.

*Although heels are not listed in my fall capsule wardrobe (my current season of life doesn't call for them), I do have a couple of pairs in the rare case I need them.*

Time-and-Tru-Women-s-Knit-Loafer_b7b2178d-02e9-40da-86a8-11a3c8c1c36b.eb37ad324906bfc0f6504e3bbecc82ff.jpeg

Time-and-Tru-Women-s-Ankle-Boots-Wide-Width-Sizes-7W-12W_58476e3c-0e5e-4b4c-bc13-175f03770733.d14effb75ab881adc00e36855723b864.jpeg

Accessories

You certainly don’t have to include accessories to the number of items you have in your capsule wardrobe. I sure don’t, but I do like to be intentional with the accessories I do have. Here’s what is in heavy rotation for my capsule wardrobe all year:

Belt: I think this elevates an outfit a bit.

Stud earrings: I like to wear these on days where I am working out or hanging at home for a super casual vibe.

Hoops: These are my go-to everyday earrings that I can throw on with anything.

Statement earrings: I reach for these when I want to dress up a bit more.

Bracelet(s): I rarely wear bracelets since I always have my Apple Watch on, but I’ve got two different bracelets for when an outfit calls me to ditch the watch.

Necklace(s): I have one gold necklace that I’ve been rocking since 2018.

Sunglasses: I’m sure no explanation is needed!

Bag: My kiddos are 7, 4, and 2, so some kind of diaper bag/backpack is needed. I have been a faithful Itzy Ritzy mini book bag carrier since 2018, and haven’t really needed anything else since (well, outside of my occasional use of my waist pack aka fanny pack).

Why It Works

The best part about a capsule wardrobe is that everything works together. I know having a limited number of items in your closet can seem limiting, but you can mix and match, layer when needed, and always feel like you have something to wear without the dreaded closet chaos. Plus, it saves you time and mental energy—two things we moms could always use more of!

How to Get Started

Start by going through your closet and pulling out all the pieces you *actually* wear (you know the ones!). Set aside anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, doesn’t fit, or that you’ve been holding onto "just in case." Then, focus on your basics—the ones you can easily mix and match—and fill in any gaps with a few key pieces if you need to. You can use the list above as a guide.

Bonus for Subscribers

If you’re on my email list, you’ll get a peek at how I am wearing my capsule wardrobe this season. There’s also a fun challenge that I would love for you to join, so be sure to check your inbox!

Not on the list? Sign up below to stay in the loop and join the fam!

Let’s Keep It Simple, Mama

I know life can feel overwhelming, but simplifying one small thing—like your wardrobe—can have a huge impact on your day-to-day. So grab your favorite sweater, shimmy into some comfy jeans, and let’s keep things simple this fall!

Tell me: have you tried building your fall capsule wardrobe yet? Or maybe you’ve already embraced a simpler way of getting dressed? What’s your favorite fall outfit that makes you feel comfy and confident?

A Simplified Fall Capsule Wardrobe for the WFH Mom

What’s a Capsule Wardrobe?

The WFH Mom Fall Capsule Wardrobe Essentials