For many menswear guys, fall is the best time of year. It’s the one season where you wear practically everything you own, show off your layering skills and bring the most tactile and functional garms you have out of summer storage.
A fall capsule wardrobe could mean many things, but for us, this is the time when your most versatile clothes come out and shine, no matter what the weather is doing. Fallback classics, easy layers and eye-catching accessories are all in the mix
Of course, menswear is a broad church these days, but there are some essentials, adaptable and evergreen, that work no matter what your style is. Consider the below a checklist of everything you need this season—and permission to go and get it all.
Overshirt
Yes, we all have about five of them now, and that’s okay. The overshirt is the first name on the fall team sheet, effortlessly blending functionality, style and versatility. Typically constructed from heavier fabrics like wool or canvas, it provides just enough warmth without the bulk of a full jacket. This makes it ideal for can’t-make-up-its-mind weather: layer it over a T-shirt on warmer days or under a coat when it gets colder.
An overshirt’s structured fit adds a polished, masculine look to casual outfits, giving them an elevated, put-together vibe. Its practicality comes from its utility-style pockets, which are usually big enough to carry the most show-off camera phones. Available in various textures, from brushed cotton to corduroy, the overshirt pairs easily with anything from denim to chinos.
It is simply a must-have in the fall capsule.
Wide-Leg Chinos
We’re old enough to remember when wide-leg trousers were bold, avant-garde menswear. Today, they’re a must-have: comfortable, flattering, stylish and versatile.
Wide-leg chinos, in particular, are a good choice for men who want comfort without sacrificing sophistication. The wider cut not only creates a fashionable silhouette but also offers increased freedom of movement, making them ideal for fall activities.
That loose fit also allows for comfortable layering with boots or sneakers, and the versatility is echoed when you pair them with a tucked-in tee or a cosy sweater. They’re practical, too, providing airflow and comfort during warmer autumn days while allowing room for layering during colder mornings.
Go for a mid-weight fabric like twill or corduroy for maximum wearability.
Beanie
Heads up, it’s that time again. The beanie is more than just a practical dome warmer; it’s the crowning piece on many a stylish fall fit. Known for its ability to work with everything from outdoorsy style to office-ready tailoring, it’s become a must-have for fall and winter that seamlessly combines function and fashion.
There are many styles, from cuffed to slouchy, and materials, like wool or cotton blends. For our money, the best-looking beanies are simple ribbed versions with minimal branding. Neutral colours like black, grey and navy are fine and versatile, but this is one accessory that can hold a bit of colour. Try a red or mustard to break up an otherwise simple outfit.
Technical Shell Jacket
One look at the weather forecast is all it takes to know that a technical shell jacket is a must-have in fall capsule wardrobes. Designed to handle unpredictable fall conditions, these jackets are typically water-resistant or waterproof, providing a lightweight but effective layer against rain and wind.
Their minimalist design makes them an ideal outer layer that doesn’t compromise on style, with clean lines and muted colours suiting both outdoor and urban environments. Technical shell jackets are usually constructed with advanced fabrics that are breathable and moisture-wicking, making them comfortable for extended wear, whether you’re hiking or commuting.
Their versatility allows them to be layered over casual attire, such as sweatshirts or flannels, or office outfits. Functional features, such as covered zipped pockets and adjustable peaked hoods, add practicality to this stylish, high-performance garment.
Sweatshirt
One of the first garments to transition from sportswear to everyday style, the sweatshirt has evolved into a menswear staple. It belongs in your fall capsule wardrobe because it’s so easy to throw on. A sweatshirt works with almost everything else on this list, styling up and down with ease. Plus, today’s sweatshirts are warm and comfortable without being too heavy, so they also tick the weather-appropriate box in autumn.
You can wear it as a standalone outer layer on warmer days, but it also looks great under everything from a denim jacket to a padded vest and with tailored trousers, jeans or cords.
Available in various fabrics, go for a loopback collegiate style with a logo or visual on the front. Or, for something more neutral, choose a simple fleece-back option in black or grey.
Cardigan
At some point in the past decade, the cardigan shrugged off its fuddy-duddy image and once again became a menswear must-have. From Roy-family shawl necks that can work in place of a blazer to colourful streetwear-coded cardies that scream anything but grandpa, the choice right now is better than ever.
Of course, a cardigan is an essential fall piece that combines sophistication, comfort and versatility. Whether it’s a chunky knit or a lighter, more fitted style, cardigans offer endless layering possibilities, making them perfect for the season’s unpredictable climate.
Paired with a T-shirt and jeans, a cardigan can elevate a casual look, while layering it over a button-down shirt provides a polished, smart-casual outfit ideal for the office or dinner.
Hiking Shoes
Hiking shoes aren’t just for the trails any more. In recent years, they’ve become a stylish addition to the fall capsule wardrobe, especially for men who value both practicality and aesthetics. Designed for durability and comfort, fashionable hiking shoes feature rugged soles and weather-resistant materials that make them perfect for unpredictable fall conditions. Their ability to blend functionality with modern design elements works with the direction of travel in a lot of men’s fashion, where practicality is king.
That means you can pair them easily with everything from casual denim to technical outerwear. Their traction and support make them ideal for outdoor activities, but they also look great in urban settings.
Hiking shoes come in sleek neutrals or crazy colours, meaning you’ll find a pair that works for you. Whether you’re navigating city streets or plotting a weekend hike, hiking shoes offer a versatile, trend-forward option for fall footwear.
Suede Jacket
Crafted from soft, luxurious materials, a suede jacket brings an elevated touch to fall fashion. This timeless jacket can lean cowboy or dandy, with its rich texture and earthy tones able to look both rugged and polished depending on how you style it. Suede’s insulating properties make it ideal for layering over lightweight sweaters or button-downs, offering warmth without excessive bulk.
Versatility is key with this jacket; it pairs well with denim for a casual weekend look or tailored trousers for more formal occasions.
Suede has a reputation for being fragile or delicate. While the material requires more care than other fabrics, its durability and ability to age beautifully make it a worthwhile investment and an indispensable choice for crisp fall days.
Denim Jacket
A denim jacket never goes out of style. This menswear essential offers endless versatility, allowing it to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Throw one over a T-shirt for a casual weekend or layer one under a wool coat for extra warmth—either way, its timeless appeal remains unmatched, and it’s a reliable option for fall’s changing weather.
Practicality comes in the form of denim’s tough, long-lasting character. The jacket’s fitted silhouette also adds structure to casual outfits, while the variety of washes and colours available gives you plenty of options for personal taste – but we’ll always be suckers for a classic mid-blue with Western-style chest pockets.
Worker Pants
Traditional workwear is always a welcome recruit in fall, its utilitarian design standing up to the season’s weather. Combining utility with modern style, worker pants bring durability and function, as well as roomy fits and masculine aesthetics.
Their sturdy construction, often featuring reinforced stitching and multiple pockets, is perfect for both practical, everyday wear and trend-driven outfits.
The relaxed fit offers comfort and ease of movement, making them ideal for active days, whether you’re exploring the outdoors or just on the move in a busy city. Despite their heavy-duty origins, they’ve evolved into versatile pieces that work in both streetwear and more polished, casual settings. Pair them with flannel shirts, overshirts, or sweatshirts for a laid-back fall look.
Chukka Boots
With their sleek but rugged silhouette, chukka boots offer the perfect balance between casual and refined footwear. These ankle-high boots, typically made from suede or leather, provide enough warmth and coverage for fall without being too heavy.
Their minimalist design allows them to be easily dressed up with tailored trousers or down with jeans or chinos, making them a versatile option for both casual outings and more formal occasions.
Practicality lies mainly in their comfort – chukka boots often feature cushioned soles and soft interiors, ideal for all-day wear. And the neutral colour options, like brown, black, or taupe allow them to seamlessly integrate into any fall outfit.
Flannel Shirt
A flannel shirt is synonymous with fall, and with good reason. Soft, warm and comfortable, it’s the perfect layering piece for the season, offering rugged style and function. Ideal for keeping warm during cooler temperatures, flannel shirts are made from brushed cotton or wool blends, providing enough insulation to keep you comfortable, yet are breathable enough for when the weather is milder.
Layer one over a tee or under a jacket or overshirt. You’ll find plenty in signature plaid patterns and earthy colour tones that strike a nice balance between urban and outdoorsy.
Padded Vest
One of the most reliable layering pieces for men in the fall is the padded vest or gilet. Providing just the right amount of warmth without restricting movement, it’s perfect for those in-between days when a full jacket feels too much.
The lightweight padding keeps your core warm, but the sleeveless design also provides interesting ways to build an outfit. Layer one over tees and sweaters or under heavier winter coats.
The aesthetic can work for any number of style tribes, from finance bros to workwear devotees. Likewise, the labels producing padded vests span the whole menswear spectrum, from dedicated outdoor brands to designer fashion houses.
Hoodie
The hoodie needs no introduction. Once considered strictly casual wear, it’s now a grail piece of menswear that works for everything: work video calls, city walks, autumnal commutes and lazy weekends. Pair it with jeans or sweatpants for a relaxed look, or layer it under a tailored coat for something more polished. Its practicality is undeniable – hoodies provide warmth and comfort without being overly bulky, making them perfect for transitional weather.
We’re fond of styles featuring a kangaroo pocket and adjustable hood, which add extra functionality to a piece we already practically live in. Available in a range of fabrics, from lightweight cotton to heavier fleece, hoodies can be tailored to different fall weather conditions.
You’re bound to have one already. Consider this your permission to get another.
Heavyweight T-shirt
Heavyweight T-shirts are one of those categories that people resist for a long time and then commit to for the rest of their lives. Thicker than your typical summer tee, it provides a sturdier, more structured look. Look for something north of 250gsm for that warmth and weight, then pair it with jeans, chinos, or layered under jackets and overshirts.
You’ll notice the thickness of the cotton, both when you pull it on and over time. This is a durable item of clothing ideal for men who want a stylish, low-maintenance option for everyday wear.
A heavyweight T-shirt has the versatility to be worn on its own during warmer fall days or layered under a cardigan or flannel shirt as temperatures drop.
