T-shirts and shorts were fun for a while, but we’re bored now. Which is just as well, because plummeting temperatures across the Northern Hemisphere mean it’s time for a wardrobe 180 once again.
Rediscovering your fall wardrobe can be great fun, but only if it’s full of pieces you actually want to wear. Maybe it’s been a few years since you gave your autumn rotation a revamp, or perhaps you’re feeling uninspired by what’s in there and struggling to put interesting outfits together. If any of this sounds familiar, it might be time for a few upgrades.
There are lots of simple switches you can make to elevate your fall wardrobe and make your outfits feel that touch more sophisticated. Whether it’s opting for the same garment in a slightly fancier fabric or swapping a casual basic for a classier alternative, there are lots of ways to raise the sartorial bar.
To get you started, here are some easy swaps that will instantly upgrade your fall wardrobe.
Swap This: Cotton Overshirt
ASKET
It’s a classic, no doubt about it. But you can do better. Too many men rely on their cotton overshirts like a crutch as soon as the first whispers of autumn can be heard.
But there are better alternatives out there that feel much more upscale while serving the same role within your wardrobe.
For This: Wool Overshirt
There are several options, but our advice is to go for a similar style in wool instead of cotton. Not only is wool thicker and warmer in cold weather, but the texture will bring another dimension to your outfits, resulting in a more premium feel overall.
Keep it classic with a simple three-pocket version in a dark, neutral colour, and layer it with knitwear and a big coat.
Swap This: Denim Jacket
Brunello Cucinelli
The denim jacket is a fantastic layering piece that every style-conscious man should have in his arsenal. However, if you’re looking for a garment equally suited to stacking with more of an upscale vibe, there are better options.
For This: Suede Blouson
A suede blouson would be our preferred choice. It has a similar silhouette with its cropped body and classic collar, but the fabric is far more indulgent than denim and will pair more readily with smarter pieces like tailored pants and dress shoes.
That said, it’s also great for dressing up casual pieces, which makes it surprisingly versatile.
Swap This: High-Top Sneakers
Oliver Cabell
Many of the most iconic sneakers of all time are high-tops, but this silhouette is all too easy to get wrong. Style them poorly, and they can look a little immature.
We’re not saying get rid of them, but there is a more grown-up way of doing things if you want to build on your fall style.
For This: Lugged Suede Boots
A proper pair of lugged-sole boots, ideally Goodyear welted for easy resoling, will see you through many falls and winters. They’ll go with just about anything—jeans, chinos, cargos, tailored pants—it all works nicely.
We’d advise going for brown for maximum versatility and suede for the added texture it brings to the table.
Swap This: White Sports Socks
Clae
Bad news: that three-pack of Nike socks you got from the bargain bin is dragging down your fall outfits. A fit is only as good as its weakest link, and if a pair of grubby white gym socks reveal themselves any time you sit down or cross your legs, an otherwise perfectly good ensemble can easily be cheapened.
For This: Thick Textured Socks
Instead, go for something that adds some extra flavour to your autumnal looks. Make your socks a part of your outfit rather than merely an afterthought.
We like something thick and textured with flecked wool. Japan’s Anonymous Ism makes some of our favourites, and RoToTo’s aren’t bad, either.
Swap This: Puffer Vest
H&M
You can do better than that plain black puffer vest. It’s a functional garment that serves a valuable purpose within the fall wardrobe, but its finance-bro connotations are hard to ignore.
There are far more interesting alternatives out there from a purely aesthetic standpoint.
For This: Quilted Liner Vest
A quilted liner vest in a bold colour is a great option. It serves exactly the same role in terms of layering and keeping warm, but it’ll also add an extra bit of personality to your outfit.
The lack of a collar makes it great for layering with other garments, and its low profile allows it to slot under an overshirt or jacket without looking overly bulky.
Go for a nice bold orange version for a pop of seasonally appropriate colour.
Swap This: Stretch-Fit Jeans
Mango
Don’t spoil your autumn outfits with low-quality denim. Many guys fail to prioritise denim and go for the cheapest option they can find, but taking a bit of time and spending a little more money will pay sartorial dividends.
For This: Straight-Leg Selvedge Jeans
A good pair of selvedge jeans in a classic straight fit will last longer, look better and elevate your outfits without making a song and dance about it.
Go for a raw, unwashed pair, and they’ll take on character as they age, with fades and whiskers forming in high-wear areas over time.
Swap This: Basic Sunglasses
Garrett Leight California Optical
We get it. Aviators, Wayfarers, Clubmasters – you heard they’re classic styles and thought you couldn’t go wrong. It’s true, but a lot of guys heard and thought exactly the same thing.
As a result, these shades are everywhere, and if you want to up your game, you’d be well advised to switch it up.
For This: Statement Shades
Whether it’s a thick, bold acetate frame, some semi-transparent coloured lenses, or just a slightly exaggerated frame shape, a pair of statement shades is a relatively small item that can do a lot for your overall look.
Take some time to determine what styles are best suited to your face shape, and don’t be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone.
