Rip & Tan

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How to Find Your Fall Uniform

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Style

How to Find Your Fall Uniform

August 23, 2021

A woman with curly hair, dressed in wardrobe essentials—a light-colored cardigan and white outfit—stands smiling in a modern, bright kitchen with neutral decor and open shelves in the background.
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Life’s complicated—getting dressed shouldn’t be. This is a mantra we bring to life daily through wardrobe essentials that follow a tried and true style philosophy: the uniform. As we wave goodbye to summer and welcome fall with open arms, we’re focusing on the foundational elements that give us a sense of place and purpose, starting with our wardrobes. From timeless shirting to classic knits, follow these steps to build a fall uniform that’s entirely timeless.

Handwritten quote: If you figure out what makes you feel good and works for your lifestyle—like finding your wardrobe essentials—life is easier. You don’t have to constantly reinvent yourself. – Jenni.
A woman with curly hair stands by a large window in a cozy, sunlit living room. Dressed in wardrobe essentials—a gray cardigan, white pants, and brown shoes—she rests one hand on a light-colored armchair near the fireplace.
Four ribbed knit sweaters—wardrobe essentials—in white, beige, gray, and black are neatly folded in a stack. Each features a visible button on top and rests on a neutral textured surface.

Rule #1: Focus on Neutrals

When it comes to finding your fall (and forever) uniform, one element is key: keep neutrals at the forefront. From ivory and heather grey to navy and black, neutral shades are your secret to success when building a capsule wardrobe that will work from season to season. Shoes, tees, dresses, or sweaters—whichever item it is, be sure to aim for wardrobe essentials that are in all-season colors to give your closet versatility, depth, and a seamless edge of polish.

Rule #2: Bring in the Basics

A crucial tenet in uniform dressing is relying on wardrobe basics. Focus on the staple pieces that build any outfit: multi-purpose knits, classic, high-waisted jeans, crisp t-shirts, flattering dresses, everyday hoops, and a comfortable assortment of Mules, sneakers, and boots. While it may be tempting to go for trendy pieces, high-quality basics will ground your closet in a timelessness that will transcend any style moment.

Two people wearing blue jeans—true wardrobe essentials—are lying on their backs with legs crossed and raised. One sports black pointed-toe flats; the other wears pointed-toe flats with a leopard print pattern.
A woman with curly brown hair in wardrobe essentials—a light gray cardigan over a white shirt and white jeans—stands against a plain white background, smiling softly at the camera.

Rule #3: Aim For Comfort & Versatility

Last, but certainly not least, comes the rule of comfort and versatility. As the guiding force of any fall uniform, opting for simple silhouettes and effortless pieces that make you look and feel your best is key. If something isn’t fitting correctly or the thought of spending an entire afternoon in a certain piece fills you with dread, then it most certainly doesn’t belong in your closet. Focusing on what you love is what matters most—your clothes don’t define who you are, you do.

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Photos by Amanda Sanford