Ethical Style Notes: Fall/Winter Style Inspiration ’18

A look from last November

The time has come again to plan my wardrobe for the fall and winter season (I know, it is actually too early if we’re being reasonable, but the clothing marketers are never reasonable). Luckily, I’ve been doing this regularly for more than a year, so there’s far less to assess. But I got a lot out of exploring predominant colors and silhouettes in the spring, so I’m at it again for fall.

As I always mention, I don’t do a four season capsule. Instead, I shuffle out off-season items and bring in appropriate items – there’s fairly significant overlap from season to season because my basic tees and denim are worn year round.

I pin inspiration so I have visual reminders of what’s catching my eye. This has been a big eye-opener, because my pins truly reflect the personal style I’d like to achieve…

Predominant Themes for Fall/Winter Style

Colors: Blue | Black & White | Cream | Burnt Orange | Deep Rose | Olive Green | Mustard

Silhouettes: Oversized Jackets, Cardigans, & Tunics with Vintage Denim | Cropped Sweaters with High Waist Denim | Vintage Inspired Midi and Maxi Dresses | Loose Fit High Waist Pants with Fitted Tees

Patterns: Dusty Florals | Stripes | Marled Textures | Plaid

Footwear: Mules | Fitted Booties | Lace-up Boots | Oxfords | High Top Sneakers

Recent Etsy Finds

What I’ve Purchased So Far

I’m trying to keep purchases to a minimum until the weather actually turns, because it can be hard to anticipate the gaps when it’s warm outside.

That being said, I have been buying things secondhand as I’ve seen them, so I have a pair of black lace up boots (to replace my beloved boots that bit the dust this past spring), cognac heeled booties, loose-fit vintage denim, two vintage dresses in dusty floral and plaid, and two medium weight jackets: a bomber and a denim work coat. All of these were purchased from local thrift shops, swap.com, or etsy.

In addition, I received a pair of teal, vegan sneakers from EarthHero, which I plan to style with both dresses and jeans.

What I Need

I don’t need anything at this point! My color profile this season is really just the fall version of my spring/summer palette, so all of my t-shirts and dresses are transferrable to fall. My shoe game is also looking pretty good. We’ll see how I like the boots I purchased recently. If they’re uncomfortable or don’t offer enough warmth, they may have to be replaced mid-season.

Even though I’m pretty set, I have been saving up some store credit at Everlane for their washed denim jacket, coming out in the next few days.

P.S. Did you see they just came out with sustainable silk? I’m really glad to see continued momentum toward rehabbing their supply chain.


What are you all shopping for this season?

Click here to see my other outfit planning and Capsule posts

Leah Wise

Leah Wise is the founder of StyleWise Blog. She has been writing, speaking, and consulting on sustainable fashion, the fair trade and secondhand supply chain, and digital marketing for over ten years. An Episcopal priest, Leah holds a B.A. in Religion from Florida State University and an M.Div. from Yale Divinity School. When not working, you can find her looking for treasures at the thrift store.

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