4 Must-Have Layers for Fall

From left to right: The Utility: ONE | TWO / The Blazer: ONE | TWO | THREE / The Teddy: ONE | TWO | THREE | FOUR / The Trench: ONE | TWO

With fall on the horizon, I wanted to share a few of my favorite go-to outerwear options. These are the main staples I reach for with casual wear and I think that’s often the category where people crave a little extra inspiration. The everyday layers you live in, the styles that are comfortable and not overly fussy…the ones you reach for that just make you feel good. These are those.

I shared outfit inspiration from last season for each outerwear option and, unfortunately, the exact styles are all old or sold out but I made sure to link plenty of dupes to recreate the looks!

The Utility

Whether you call it a military jacket, fleet jacket, utility jacket or anorak, there’s no denying this is a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. This will be the style you reach for to pair with everything from jeans to leggings and will be a go-to for morning dog walks and school drop-offs to casual dinners out. This style is incredibly versatile and I personally love the double-duty option of wearing it open, cinched or tied at the waist. Olive green is also a great option with an instantly casual vibe. It’s a great fall neutral to break up your other favorite neutrals and the color goes with practically everything—you just can’t go wrong!

See how I styled mine with Spanx faux leather leggings and sneakers in this post.

The Blazer

For when you want to feel a little more put together, a blazer is the answer. This is the layer that adds plenty of structure and style without any fuss. I personally prefer one with a little stretch for added comfort (and movement) and tend to opt for something with a touch of spandex and a boyfriend silhouette. I find this strikes just the right balance between structured and relaxed aka casual-cool.

A blazer is what you’ll reach for for date night, girls night, special events, work parties, school events, holidays and more. Throw on jeans and a white tee with a blazer on top and I promise you’ll feel instantly chic and more “styled.”

Last fall, I loved the vibe a plaid blazer gave to any outfit but am also craving a camel color for something classic, neutral and chic.

See how I styled mine with black denim and faux snakeskin flats in this post.

The Teddy

Another great casual option with just the right amount of “trend.” A teddy (aka fleece aka sherpa aka faux shearling) jacket is equal parts comfy and luxe and I personally love how they look both dressed up and dressed down. I’ve picked up a few lower-end styles over the years and last year decided to splurge on a Madewell version that got so much wear and definitely felt a little more elevated and structured than any of the $20 versions I’d tried over past seasons.

This is the comfy-cozy layer you’ll find necessary when you just feel cold! Last year, I was constantly grabbing my teddy jacket to take the dogs out in the morning and it’s great that it’s a style you can also feel comfortable cuddling up on the couch in. 😅

UPDATE! Madewell brought this sherpa jacket back!

See mine styled casually in this post.

The Trench

If you don’t have a trench coat in your collection, I highly recommend adding one this season. This is truly a wardrobe staple every woman should own and you’ll wear yours all fall through spring. I love the look of a sleek style with no hood but to make it truly functional (i.e. wearable for a rainy day), I would opt for a style with a hood—bonus points if it’s removable!

This is another outerwear staple that just looks chic with minimal effort. You can throw one on to elevate a leggings + sneakers look, pair with cozy sweaters and booties for something casual or even layer over dresses all season long. 👏🏼

As always, thank you so much for reading!

x Tyler