Sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue.
I’m nothing if not consistent. Year after year, my tried-and-true fall uniform consists of jeans, sneakers, a striped top and a cardigan-coat. Effortless with a classic style that always feels like “me.” When I find something that works…I stick with it.
One of the reasons I try to create a go-to outfit formula for every season is that it helps in building a solid forever-closet wardrobe. For fall, if it’s in one of these four categories (Good Jeans, Stripes, Coatigan or Sneaks), it WILL get worn on repeat.
I will admit, though… It’s also quite fun to make a few tweaks every fall to give this reliable and foolproof outfit formula a bit of an update. And these Sorel sneakers, these new MOTHER jeans (similar with more sizing), and this under-$100, boxy sweater (to wear underneath this cozy coatigan) are all particularly fabulous finds!
Saks Friends & Family Event has started with MANY of my picks 25% off, but act quickly sizing is going FAST!
coatigan (S) | sweater (S) | jeans (29) | similar jeans | sneaks | bag
My Everyday Fall Outfit Formula (Hint: Add A Cozy Coatigan)
For fall 2023, the freshen-up modifications to my everyday outfit formula were easy! Nothing says on trend for fall 2023 (but still with a classic vibe) like wide-leg jeans. If you’re going to make just one swap, I’d start there.
The Sorel sneaker options are truly on FIRE right now, though, so that’s another fantastic switch-out to make this combo more modern.
You know I’m not going to shy away from recommending a coatigan. If you’re looking for a new one — this longer-than-my-usual, double-breasted coatigan is a definite win (ultra-soft and cozy).
And then there’s always the striped tops…you could update your look with a new colorway or alternative shape/fit.
coatigan (S) | top (S) | sweater (S) | jeans (29) | similar jeans | sneaks | bag
1. Start With Wide-Leg Jeans For Fall Style: MOTHER The Hustler Roller Sneaks
I’m finding the easiest way to update any casual fall outfit is to widen the leg of the pants or jeans. Wide-leg and flare jeans are definitely HERE for fall 2023…actually…not just here — EVERYWHERE!
top (S) | jeans (29) | similar jeans | sneaks | bag | sunnies
The jeans I’m wearing here are the MOTHER The Hustler Roller Sneaks. Sizes are selling out fast, but these Joe’s wide-leg jeans have a similar wash and fit (with good stretch like the MOTHER pair). MOTHER Rollers are categorized as both wide-legs and flares, but with the 24.5-inch leg opening, the fit definitely feels more like typical wide-legs on me.
I’ve been wearing them with fitted shirts tucked in or short-ish boxy sweaters and tops, and I’m experimenting with the proportions of wearing these wide-leg jeans with longer tunic-style button-ups as well. They pretty much make everything look more current (and I appreciate the stretch for my curves).
top (S) | jeans (29) | similar jeans | sneaks | bag
Sizing Notes: Wearing size 29. They have a 32-inch inseam, so I had them hemmed “sneaker length” for my 5’2″ self. The similar Joe’s jeans have a 34-inch inseam. These MOTHER Rollers are shorter at 27.5 inches if you’re a shortie and don’t want to hem…or a simple hack with scissors would also work for the longer ones.
Shop More Wide-Leg Jeans
2. Try Chunky Shoes With Wide-Leg Jeans: Chic Sorel Sneakers
Finding the right shoes for wide-leg jeans can be a bit challenging (at least for my 5’2″ frame), but these Sorel sneakers in both the black and the Sea Salt work perfectly.
For my proportions and body shape, I feel like I need chunkier, taller shoes to balance out the wide-leg jeans, and there are a lot of Sorels that do just that. These everyday low-tops are my personal top pick, but I’ve rounded up some other options below…so many good ones this year that have a similar vibe.
sweater (S) | jeans (29) | similar jeans | sneaks | bag
Sizing Notes: True to size. Wearing my usual 7.5 that I like for most sneaker brands. Plenty comfy for walking the city pavement.
Shop More Chic Sorel Sneakers
3. Embrace Cozy Elegance With A Long Cardigan: dh New York Coatigan
Ahhhh….the coatigan! I predict the coatigan will be my favorite fall top layer always and forever. This dh New York coatigan in particular is ultra-soft and has elegant design elements that feel fresh for fall 2023.
It has a longer line than my usual picks for coatigans, is double-breasted with interesting button details, and has an elegant shawl collar and interesting ribbed cuffs. AND it is VERY soft. Super-cozy for those fall days you want to feel cuddled all.day.long.
Sizing Notes: Wearing a size S. As you can see, it’s pretty roomy. Pretty sure I could have also worn a size XS, but I like the oversized and relaxed vibe of the S as well.
Shop More Soft Coatigans & Cozy Top Layers
4. Pair With Timeless Classics: Striped Tops & A Unique Bag
And to finish off this easy fall uniform formula…combine the wide-leg jeans, Sorels and coatigan with a timeless striped top and an interesting, unique bag.
sweater (s) | denim (29) | similar denim | bag
The Free People striped sweater above is a pleasure to wear. Hits JUST at the top of my high-waisted jeans, is comfortable, and pairs perfectly with denim. Love finding these great wardrobe workhorses under $100.
And Vince, per usual, made a perfectly chic striped tee for fall 2023. It’s made from a cotton blend that’s stretchier and slightly sheerer than the striped Vince tops I’ve worn before. Smooth, clean lines and tucks in like a dream.
top (S) | jeans (29) | similar jeans | sneaks | bag | sunnies
Sizing Notes: Wearing a size S in this Vince top and the Free People sweater. The Vince top is fitted and super-stretchy — I occasionally wear an XS in some tops, but I’m glad I stuck with the S in this one. Free People runs big usually, but I went with my typical preferred sweater size in most brands (small), and I like the fit and how it hits JUST at the top of my jeans.
Shop More Striped Tops
And there you have it! Wide-Leg Jeans + Sorel Sneaks + A Long Coatigan + Stripes = A Fall 2023 Outfit Formula Win!
-Linzi
Thank you, Saks and Collective Voice, for sponsoring this post. It really is SUCH a treat to shop at Saks and incorporate your gorgeous pieces into my go-to casual outfits. Saks always has such a lovely selection of luxe-looking outfit inspiration — whether it’s for school drop-off, date night or a special occasion. The fall wardrobe must-haves (that fit into my fall outfit formula) truly are spot on. And thank you, TME readers, for your time and support. It is so very appreciated.
photo credits: Redfield Photography
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