Fall is here and winter is coming. Since we’re now in the thick of it, I figure it’s a good time to talk about fall style essentials for men. Next, we’ll talk winter style.
Here’s what I consider men’s fall style essentials worthy of a spot in your closet.
Let’s get right to it, starting with fall first.
Men’s Fall Style Essentials
Focus on mid-layers, top-layers, attention to fabric and warm yet subdued colors.
Men’s fall style essential number one is an autumn jacket, an essential layering piece or standalone garment. I want to go over top-layer options, a mid-layer option and jackets that are good on their own.
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1) The Field Jacket
SHOP THIS LOOK—Field Jacket: Barbour (alt – Peter Manning NYC) | Jeans: GAP | Shirt: Zaful | Vest: Uniqlo | Boots: Wolverine
A good field jacket has weight to it, but not so much that you can’t layer with it. It should have a light lining with ample utility pockets. Typically it’s going to be an outer layer. Opt for the most versatile colors of either navy, tan or olive.
2) The Leather Jacket
SHOP THIS LOOK—Leather Jacket: Amazon Fashion or Peter Manning | Jeans: GAP | Vest: J.Crew Factory
Admit it, you’ve always wanted one. A high quality leather jacket will make you feel badass. Just make sure it’s real leather and not low-quality, fake pleather.
Go with a motorcycle (biker) jacket or go with a more versatile racer jacket, go black or brown—whichever aligns with your current aesthetic. Either way, a high-quality leather jacket is essential for any modern-day gent.
3) The Denim Jacket
Perfect as a top layer in early fall and as a mid-layer when the temperature starts to dip. The denim jacket is my favorite mid-layer jacket. You can rock it with a t-shirt, you can rock it with a necktie. Wear it under a blazer or over a light puffer vest.
It’s quite versatile. I like a lighter wash for warmer weather and a darker wash for later in the fall season when it’s colder. Keep in mind if you’re going for a denim on denim look, it can work, just make sure there’s enough contrast between the shades to avoid Canadian tuxedo vibes.
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4) The Harrington Jacket
A good early-fall or spring jacket option. The Harrington jacket is elevated yet still casual. I love the detail of a Harrington jacket’s tartan lining. It has a classic collar, kind of like an extended racer jacket collar. This jacket is a great standalone piece. Layer it over top of a standard flannel button down shirt or long sleeve henley.
5) The Bomber Jacket
SHOP THIS LOOK—Jacket: Alpha Industries or Everlane | Shoes: Nike | Chinos: Everlane | Watch: Timex | Sunglasses: Felix Gray
Whether you go with a more casual Alpha Industries style bomber or a more refined suede bomber, this jacket is a great standalone statement garment.
Related: You might like this article on Jacket Styles for Men.
I love that a bomber can be worn both casually and dressed up. There’s plenty of history behind the classic bomber. It’s a heritage piece that’s sure to leave a lasting statement.
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6) Flannel Shirts
It isn’t fall until flannels emerge. The flannel shirt’s warmth, colors and patterns make it a stylish fall staple and layering piece. They can be worn tucked, untucked or my favorite, front tucked. Wear it with a vest, a field jacket
Flannel shirts are inherently more casual due their fabric, color and pattern. And since they’re more casual it’s okay if they’re a bit longer, looser and worn unbuttoned. In fact I love the unbuttoned look of a flannel shirt layered overtop of a waffle knit henley or t-shirt.
7) Tweed Blazer
Tweed is a rough surfaced woolen cloth. A unique characteristic of tweed is little flecks of color that can be seen along the fabric. Tweed provides warmth when the weather dips. The strands of tweed fabric are tightly woven to provide insulation for the body.
It’s one of my favorite cold weather fabrics to wear. The tweed blazer being a great option for starters.
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8) Corduroy Blazer
SHOP THE BLAZER—Corduroy Blazer: Amazon Fashion
Not into tweed? You can opt for the less popular, yet still stylish corduroy blazer. Tweed and corduroy fabrics are perfect fall style essentials for men.
I love this option for the warmth, but also the style. It’s one of my favorite cold weather fabrics. I like for a corduroy blazer to fit more loosely so that you can layer a denim jacket or thicker sweater underneath.
Both tweed and corduroy may give off professorial vibes and that’s not a bad thing so long as you keep things super casual.
9) Corduroy Pants
SHOP THE CORDS—Corduroy Pants: Amazon Essentials
SHOP THE CORDS—Corduroy Pants (Stretch Straight): Spier & Mackay
Corduroy gets a bad rep. It’s the quintessential ‘old man’ choice fabric. But if you find cords with a more modern fit, you can avoid looking like an older gent. I wouldn’t recommend skinny fit corduroy pants, however slim or straight can work well.
I like brighter colors like a mustard yellow or earthy colors like brown, green and navy. I like it so much that I believe corduroy will be trending over the next decade.
10) Light Padded Vest
SHOP THIS LOOK—Vest: J.Crew Factory | Henley Shirt: Amazon Essentials | Jeans: Amazon Essentials | Watch: Timex
Perfect as a layering piece, the light quilted vest (J.Crew Factory Walker Vest) looks great over waffle knit henley or flannel shirt. It provides stylish insulation to keep you warm.
One of my favorite fall outfits is a flannel shirt layered under a light padded vest with a field jacket as a top layer, and finished off with a pair of rugged work boots.
Remember to ensure enough room between the vest and top-layer. You don’t want to appear too puffy up top.
11) Lightweight Scarf
Scarves are an excellent way to add a dash of style to any fall getup. Keep it lightweight in the fall. For colors stick with the colors of nature around you, I’m talking hues of yellow, burnt orange, red and brown.
Bonus Fall Essentials for Men
But wait, there’s more! Here are some additional pieces that will give you the opportunity to embrace stylish and cozy clothing this fall.
1. Layered Sweaters
Chunky knit sweaters, cardigans, and pullovers are perfect for fall. Layer them over shirts for a smart-casual look or under a jacket for extra warmth.
2. Flannel Shirts
Classic flannel shirts are a fall staple. They are comfortable, warm, and can be worn on their own or layered over T-shirts or under jackets.
3. Corduroy Pants
Corduroy trousers are both stylish and warm, making them a great choice for fall. Earthy tones like brown, olive, or burgundy are popular choices.
4. Denim Jeans
Dark or classic blue jeans are a year-round essential. Pair them with your sweaters, flannels, or even dress them up with a blazer for a versatile look. Check out this hands-on roundup on the best jeans brands for men.
5. Wool Peacoat
A wool peacoat is a classic fall outerwear option. It’s warm, stylish, and can be dressed up or down.
6. Quilted Jacket
Not just the quilted vest, but a lightweight quilted jacket is ideal for mild fall weather. It’s easy to layer and adds an element of style to your outfit.
7. Chukka Boots
Chukka boots, a year-round classic, are perfect for the transitional season. They can be dressed up or down and are comfortable for all-day wear.
8. Scarf
Scarves not only keep you warm but also add a stylish touch to your fall attire. Opt for classic patterns or neutral colors.
9. Beanies and Caps
Hats can be both functional and fashionable. Beanies and baseball caps can keep you warm while adding personality to your outfit.
10. Trench Coat
For a more formal fall look, a trench coat is an excellent choice. It’s versatile and can be worn over suits or casual wear. You might like this roundup on some of the best winter jackets for men.
11. Hoodies
Hoodies are great for casual and sporty fall outfits. You can wear them on their own or layer them under jackets. Check out this felted merino hoodie from Everlane.
12. Leather Accessories
Leather belts, gloves, and wallets are great for adding a touch of style and warmth to your ensemble.
13. Tartan or Plaid Patterns
Fall often calls for the rich colors and patterns of tartan or plaid. Incorporate these into your shirts, scarves, or even trousers.
14. Suede Loafers
Suede loafers or drivers, while always a summer style staple, are a comfortable and stylish option for footwear during fall too, give it a try.
15. Thermal Underwear
For colder days, thermal underwear is a must. It keeps you warm without adding bulk to your outfit.
16. Lightweight Turtlenecks
A lightweight turtleneck sweater is both sophisticated and cozy. It pairs well with blazers or can be worn on its own.
17. Oversized Sweaters
Oversized sweaters are a trendy choice for fall. It’s something a little different from what I normally preach here at GW. They’ll help to mix things up and provide a relaxed and comfortable look.
18. Duffel Bag
A classic duffel bag or weekend bag can complete your fall look and provide practicality for weekend getaways or daily commutes.
IN THE END
And there you have it, my list of fall style essentials for men. I’m not saying you need to have every single one of these pieces right now, but it wouldn’t hurt to build up these essentials overtime. They are pieces that can go a long way in taking you from fall and into the winter season.
Remember that personal style plays a significant role in how you choose to incorporate all of these essentials into your fall wardrobe. Mix and match items to create outfits that suit your style and the specific weather conditions in your area.
Onto you. What are some of your favorite fall style essentials?
Let’s continue the discussion over in the Gentlemen Within Private Facebook Community.
Looking forward to seeing you in there.
Can you give some fashion dos and donts for older gents (60s). Thanks. eg is denim jacket out.
Hey Jim, great idea for future content. Thanks for the comment! Cheers, K.
Blazers are great, a longer one + dark pants gives you that nice slim look
Agreed!
Sent this article to my husband to convince him why he needs to get on the flannel shirt game! The Harrington jacket / field jackets were also really good looks – thank you for the inspiration!
Hi Shruthi, So glad to hear that you passed this along to your husband. I hope he finds value in the article. Cheers, –K.
Ooh I love the duffel bag and one of my best essential item for the fall season. Thanks for the ultimate list!
Hey Alex, thanks for dropping by!