Oh thank goodness it is finally Friday! As the leaves start to turn and the temperatures drop, it is the perfect time to talk about one of my favorite topics: building a fall capsule wardrobe. You have probably noticed that I have been chatting a lot lately about fall transitional pieces such as HERE and HERE. Today, we are taking it a step further and focusing on how to create a timeless, elegant capsule wardrobe for fall that makes getting dressed effortless every single day. Oh, and be sure to check out this PODCAST that I recently did about influencing, being an empty nester and launching the fall Ming Wang collection. You can listen and watch it HERE.

A capsule wardrobe is all about simplicity, quality, and versatility. It is a curated collection of essential pieces that mix and match beautifully to create countless outfit combinations. These are your tried and true staples that never go out of style and work for almost every occasion. By investing in well-made basics and neutral tones, you will always have something chic to wear no matter what is on your calendar. I love choosing designer-quality pieces for my capsule wardrobe because I know they will last for years and retain their polish. But do not worry if you are on a budget. I have linked plenty of beautiful, affordable alternatives at a variety of price points. My favorite places to shop staples at great price points are Nordstrom and Quince. They have everything you need!

So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let us take a detailed look at everything you need to build your perfect fall capsule wardrobe. If you are not quite ready to shop yet, bookmark this page so you can return when you are ready to refresh your closet.

Fall Capsule Wardrobe Suggestions

Tops

Having a variety of tops in your closet is essential for creating balanced and versatile outfits. The main categories are tees, camisoles, button-down shirts, and blouses.

Start with high-quality tees. Choose neutral colors such as white, black, gray, and tan. A simple crew neck tee is my personal favorite because it layers beautifully under sweaters and jackets without showing too much skin. These are perfect for casual days or for layering when the weather starts to cool.

Next, add a few tanks or camisoles. These are especially helpful under sheer blouses or thin sweaters. Choose styles that are smooth and fitted so they do not bunch under other layers.

A crisp button-down shirt is another must-have. For fall, look for one made from thicker cotton rather than linen or thin silk. A white button-down is the most versatile, but you can also experiment with soft chambray or subtle stripes. Check out my more comprehensive way to style a white button down HERE.

Finally, include a few blouses that reflect your personality. I recommend one in white and one in black, but you can also add a camel or gray option for a true fall look. Patterns like small polka dots or soft florals can be a nice touch as long as they stay in your neutral palette.

Sweaters

Sweaters are the heart of every fall capsule wardrobe. When choosing them, think about fabric, fit, and versatility. A cashmere or wool blend will always feel luxurious and last for years. However, there are many beautiful cotton or synthetic options that look just as polished if you are on a budget.

Start with a basic crew neck sweater. This piece goes with everything from jeans to skirts to trousers. It is truly the definition of a capsule staple.

Next, add one or two sweaters in other classic colors such as camel, ivory, navy, or gray. A textured knit or cable sweater adds variety while staying timeless. You can also consider a fuzzy or ribbed knit for a little extra texture.

Do not forget a black turtleneck. Whether you wear it alone or as a layering piece under blazers and coats, it instantly adds a sophisticated touch.

Lastly, every wardrobe needs a cardigan. Choose a neutral shade that complements your other pieces. A soft beige or camel cardigan can be worn open with jeans or buttoned up and tucked into trousers for a polished look.

Pants & Jeans

A well-rounded fall capsule wardrobe includes several reliable options for pants and jeans.

Start with classic straight-leg jeans. They are flattering, timeless, and work well with ankle boots and loafers. Keep one pair in a dark wash and one in black. If you still love skinny jeans, do not get rid of them. They are perfect for tucking into tall boots and remain a sleek option for fall.

Add a pair of tailored trousers. Black is the most versatile, but navy, gray, or camel are also excellent choices. Even if you do not work in an office, a good pair of trousers can be dressed down with sneakers or dressed up with heels for dinner.

Finally, include one statement bottom like coated jeans. They have become a modern classic that instantly elevates a simple sweater or blouse. A midi skirt in a neutral fabric can also be a chic substitute for pants when you want a more feminine look.

Outerwear

Outerwear is what makes fall fashion so exciting. The right coat or jacket can completely transform your outfit.

Begin with a black or brown leather jacket. If real leather is not for you, a high-quality faux leather version will look just as stylish. It pairs beautifully with jeans, dresses, and skirts.

Next, add a blazer. Black is always timeless, but you might also try camel, gray, navy, or a subtle plaid. Blazers look just as good over denim as they do with workwear, and this season’s lady jackets are a feminine take on the trend.

A trench coat is another must-have. Choose one in camel, tan, or black. It is ideal for transitional weather and instantly adds polish to any look.

If you want something a little more luxurious, consider a faux fur coat. It is perfect for special occasions and evenings out.

Finally, invest in a wool coat. Choose black, camel, or gray for maximum versatility. This will be your go-to outerwear piece once the weather turns truly chilly.

Dresses

Every fall capsule wardrobe needs a few reliable dresses that you can wear for multiple occasions.

The number one essential is a black dress. Choose a style that flatters your shape and can be dressed up or down. Pair it with pumps for evening or boots and tights for daytime.

Next, include a sweater or knit dress. A black or neutral version is perfect for colder weather. You can style it with knee-high boots and a belt for a put-together look.

A sheath dress is another classic option. It is professional enough for meetings but also simple enough for dinner dates. You can layer a blazer or long cardigan over it as temperatures drop.

If you have a wedding or event coming up, be sure and shop my blog post on the best fall wedding guest dresses.

Shoes

Shoes complete your capsule wardrobe and tie every outfit together.

Start with black or brown ankle boots. These are your everyday heroes and will go with jeans, dresses, and trousers. Lug sole boots are on trend and very comfortable, while classic heeled booties remain a favorite for a more polished appearance.

Next, add knee-high boots. They look great with dresses and skirts and keep you warm on crisp fall days.

Every wardrobe also needs a pair of classic pumps in black or nude. Choose a heel height that you can comfortably walk in, and you will reach for them again and again.

Include a pair of white sneakers for casual days and errands. They add a fresh touch to jeans or even a midi skirt. New Balance sneakers are very popular right now.

Finally, loafers are an elegant choice that bridge the gap between casual and professional. Ballet flats are another great choice. They can replace heels for a more relaxed yet refined look. Gucci loafers are the most popular but I have linked other options for less.

Handbags

A functional and stylish handbag is the finishing touch to any outfit.

You will need at least one classic tote bag in black or brown. This will be your everyday carryall for errands, meetings, or travel.

Next, add a crossbody bag for days when you want to keep your hands free. Choose a structured shape in a neutral tone so it pairs well with everything.

Finally, invest in an evening clutch. A small black or metallic clutch works perfectly for dinners, events, or date nights.

Accessories

Accessories bring personality to your capsule wardrobe and make each outfit feel complete.

Start with a quality pair of leather or cashmere gloves. They are both practical and polished.

A cozy scarf is another must. A large blanket scarf works beautifully for travel or layering, while a lighter option can elevate your everyday looks.

Lastly, include a few pairs of tights in black or nude for wearing under dresses. Patterned or textured versions can also be fun for variety.

Don't forget simple jewelry, belts, sunglasses, and other accessories you wear year round. You can find more accessories you might need HERE.

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Building a fall capsule wardrobe is one of the best ways to simplify your style while elevating your everyday look. By focusing on quality, versatility, and timeless pieces, you can create countless outfits without feeling overwhelmed by options.

Whether you invest in designer staples or mix in affordable finds, the goal is to curate a collection that feels cohesive, comfortable, and uniquely you. When your closet is filled with items you truly love, getting dressed becomes a joy rather than a chore.

What are you adding to your fall capsule wardrobe this year?

xoxo – Tanya

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Last week I shared all the details from our trip to Healdsburg, and I’ve received so many questions about what to pack for Sonoma in the fall. Between crisp mornings, golden vineyards, and relaxed afternoons spent wine tasting or exploring downtown Healdsburg, wine country truly shines this time of year. With temperatures that swing from warm days to cool evenings, packing can feel a bit tricky. This Sonoma fall packing list breaks down exactly what to wear and bring, from versatile layers to comfortable shoes, so you can enjoy your trip in style without overpacking. Plus, I’ve included a special guest and what he’s wearing below!

I will say, our weather was glorious for this trip. Mid 70's during the day and chilly at night. Everything I packed is perfect for the fall weather we are about to have in Dallas. We went shopping for Pete to get him ready for this trip. We find that St. Bernard and Nordstrom have excellent selections for men. His favorite brands are Peter Millar, Barbour and Ralph Lauren.

Sonoma Packing List

Before we get into it, let's take a look at my travel look. How perfect is this Spanx half zip sweatshirt and wide leg pant set (size M) for fall? I love the chocolate brown color! Pair it with a white tee and you're ready to go. Of course I had to wear it with my Adidas sneakers. They are on my top 8 best travel shoes list after all.

The first day I wore this gorgeous embroidered blouse (size S) with these cuffed jeans (size 27). My tote is out of stock, but this suede tote is a similar option. Complete your look with these Chanel ballet flats and this Gucci belt. It is the perfect fall style! Pete is wearing this check shirt and these jeans with these sneakers. It's a classic look for men.

His and hers fall styles! A plaid blazer is a must for fall. I paired it with this cashmere silk tee (size S) and these riding pants (size S). The riding pants are thick enough so they are not see-through and so flattering. They also have a chic suede detail. I completed my look with these suede riding boots. Pete is in this flannel button down shirt, these brown pants, and these brown sneakers. These were perfect looks for walking around Healdsburg!

More must-haves for your Sonoma packing list ... this plaid dress (size S) is a must! It is almost sold out, but the dress comes in several other great fall colors. I paired it with the suede riding boots, this cashmere sweater, and a suede tote. Pete is wearing this plaid shirt, these khaki pants, and these sneakers. This was the perfect daytime to dinner look.

Another great daytime to dinner look. The black mixed media dress I am wearing is sold out, but this dress is similar and at a great price point. Style your look with a cashmere sweater and suede riding boots. Pete is in this quarter zip sweater, this check shirt, these jeans, and these sneakers. TI love mixing black and brown. Take us to the winery!

The set I fell in love with this trip? This cashmere sweater (size S) with these cashmere pants (size S). So chic and comfortable. The chocolate brown sweater is currently sold out, but you can do many color combos or mix and match. I paired it with my Adidas sneakers for a daytime to travel style. Pete is wearing this plaid shirt, Levi's jeans, and sneakers.

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Now all you have to do is pack them in your suitcase and you're ready to go to wine country! Even if you are not traveling this month, these are great fall styles that you will get a lot of wear.

Have a great week! xoxo - Tanya

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I’ve always believed that autumn in wine country feels more alive than summer. There’s a crispness in the air, a whispered urgency in each vine, and a kind of alchemy when grapes are pressed, kitchens shift into root-vegetable mode, and towns like Healdsburg glow in ochre and auburn light. This October, we carved out four days and three magical nights at Hotel Healdsburg, enveloped in their On the Town Harvest experience — and it remains one of those escapes that lingers in memory.

Dallas to Healdsburg is such an easy journey made simple by the direct flight that American Airlines offers from DFW to Santa Rosa Charles M. Schulz airport. You depart in the morning and you're in Healdsburg in time for lunch. Simply rent a car for exploring or you can UBER like we did. It's only a 20 minute drive to Healdsburg. Pulling into the small-town plaza feels like stepping into a dream. Hotel Healdsburg sits on the central square, tucked quietly but centrally placed. Its design is that exquisite balance of refined minimalism and warm agrarian charm — a beautiful blend of light, texture, and calm. I was greeted with a quick check-in and keys to a gorgeous suite that struck me instantly as “home for the next three nights.” The scent of olive groves, faint stone, and wood framed the moment perfectly.

The Heart of the Package: On the Town Harvest

The concept behind the On the Town Harvest offer is simple and yet richly layered: a two-night stay, $100 property credit to spend at the hotel (spa, dining, bar) and a $100 On The Town credit to use with independent tasting rooms, shops, and restaurants in downtown Healdsburg. Morning breakfasts are included, as is valet, access to pool, spa, fitness, bikes, and more. We used the hotel credit for a couples massage at the Spa, which was lovely. The "on the town" credits were used to explore restaurants, experiences and the stores detailed below. We decided to extend our stay with a three-night stay but you can adjust according to your plans. We upgraded and stayed in the Plaza Suite which was divine! Daily breakfast is included in this offer.

What we loved most: the hotel trusts you to explore. Show your receipts, and your On The Town credit is applied at checkout. It encourages wandering, tasting, impulse purchases of honey or olive oil, or stumbling into a gallery that catches your eye. FYI - Everything is walkable and on the plaza. It's so easy to explore!

Our recommendations (from this trip)

EAT:

• Acorn Cafe for lunch
• Carmella for an afternoon pick me up juice/shake
• Harmon Rooftop - Happy Hour/Light Dinner (Tuesday night is taco night)
• Quail & Condor for baked goods and coffee; this is a walk up with very little seating
• Little Saint for brunch/lunch
• Healdsburg Bubble Bar for a little bubbly before dinner; owner Sarah Quider has created a little oasis
• Bistro Lagniappe for dinner
• Spoonbar for dinner
• Happy Hour at Rooftop 106 at The Matheson; we met friends for drinks and it's such a vibrant bar and restaurant
• Dry Creek Kitchen for dinner; probably our favorite experience!

• Bon Ton Studio - there are two locations; a childrens boutique and a woman's clothing boutique
• Anthem - gorgeous home furnishings, gifts and more
• Maison Fiori - a beautiful florist shop with lovely gifts
• Forager- a modern mercantile with beautiful pieces
• Zizi Clothing - women's clothing boutique
• Christy Lynn - new in Healdsburg; original store is in Houston
• Hand Fan Museum - truly unique
• Olive Press Tasting - this was so fun and a great education
• La Ruche Honey Tasting - a lovely experience and we learned a lot
• Erickson Fine Art Gallery- great exibitions and artists

• Jordan Winery - we did the "Paris on the Terrace Harvest Lunch" and wine tasting. This is a delicious four course meal and wine pairing prepared by Executive Chef Jesse Mallgren. We're no strangers to this winery. More HERE. Jordan Winery is about a 15-20 minute drive from Healdsburg. It's easily our favorite winery in Sonoma County.

Why This Experience Resonates (and Why It’s Worth a Trip)

1. Curated but open: The On the Town Harvest package gives you structure (credits, included nights) but leaves your itinerary flexible. You choose your adventure.

2. Immersion over passivity: The Hands-On Harvest experience isn’t a spectacle—it’s a chance to become part of the story.

3. Gateway to small businesses: Using downtown credit encourages exploration of local shops, not chain stores. It’s economic and emotional support of the place itself.

4. Season-forward cuisine & wine: You taste the season everywhere—kitchen, glass, palette.

5. Design + comfort: The hotel’s spaces (pool among olive groves, the calm spa, luminous light) allow you to rest deeply between explorations.

6. Sense of discovery: Because everything is walkable, dreamy surprises await around corners.

   

   

   Tips & Notes Before You Go

   • Book well ahead. Harvest season fills up fast.

   • Ask for a room with a great view. Even better, upgrade to a suite! We stayed in the Plaza Suite.

   • Use your $100 On The Town credit as you go: a little every day. Show receipts to the front desk.

   • Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and curiosity.

   • Inquire about spa reservations early; we booked these before we got there.

   • If possible, align your stay with grape-pick or crush days—those are extra special.

   • Everything in town is walkable. Take your time. Stroll.

Our four days/three night stay was perfect for us. The On the Town Harvest banner reminded me what travel is supposed to feel like: rooted, generous, inspiring. It’s not about checking boxes. It’s about tasting, touching, wandering, daydreaming. Taking your time. Reconnecting.

Healdsburg, in autumn, is at its richest: human, farmed, artistic. Hotel Healdsburg offers a portal into that. I left feeling full — not just from food or wine, but from connection, narrative, and a deep sense of place. If you’re looking for a stay that is gentle, spirited, and deeply rooted in Sonoma’s soul, this is it.

xoxo - Tanya and Pete

P.S. On The Town - Season To Sparkle will run November 15-December 30 at Hotel Healdsburg. What a spectacular trip to plan during the holiday season!

our packing list

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A timeless, elegant staple for fall and winter is a wool cape. It’s one of those versatile pieces that instantly elevates any outfit while keeping you warm and cozy. Whether you’re heading to a dinner party, traveling, or simply running errands, a cape adds an effortless layer of sophistication. Today let's take a look at the cape you need now and how to style it.

One of my favorite luxury brands, Officina del Poggio, is an Italian company founded by one of my dear friends Allison Hoeltzel Savini. Her designs always embody effortless elegance, and this wool cape is no exception. Crafted from 100% merino wool, it’s designed to perfection with a chic shawl collar, front pockets, and delicate fringe details. I’m wearing the desert shade above, but it also comes in classic black and this special edition rose. Best of all, they’re on sale right now, so it’s the perfect time to add one to your wardrobe.

Officina del Poggio is also known for their stunning leather bags. This mini basket bag is a personal favorite and pairs beautifully with this cape. I love the hand-crafted quality and unique designs of their bags. I also own several clutches, a raffia bag, and a safari bag – all of which are on my rotation! You can shop the full collection here.

As for styling a cape, keep it simple and chic. Pair it with jeans and a ruffle neck blouse for an easy, everyday look, or layer it over a classic sweater on colder days. For shoes and accessories, I went with riding boots and this leather sling bag (remember when I mentioned it here?). The deep wine shade is such a stunning fall color. It also comes in five other tones with the option to monogram, making it a thoughtful gift idea.

Make it a great day! xoxo - Tanya

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H E L L O Fall! Time to update your home decor to celebrate a new season. I’m thrilled to share that one of my all-time favorite brands, MacKenzie-Childs, has made its seasonal fall decor collection available on Amazon. From their signature Courtly Check pumpkins to whimsical acorns and festive accents, it’s never been easier to bring that playful yet elegant style into your home. Today I’m rounding up my favorite finds, plus a few styling ideas to help you transition your spaces beautifully into the fall season. SPECIAL OFFER: Get 10% off your MacKenzie-Childs order from Amazon for the next 48 hours only. Use code MCFALL10

Why I Love MacKenzie-Childs for Fall

What sets MacKenzie-Childs apart for me is the combination of craftsmanship and character. Each piece is hand-painted, so no two are exactly alike, which makes them feel personal and unique. Their signature patterns, like Courtly Check, Sterling Check, and bold harlequins, add instant personality without overwhelming a space.

I also love that these pieces transition so well throughout the season. A checked pumpkin or set of acorns looks just as fitting in September as it does at Thanksgiving. Instead of swapping decor every few weeks, you can invest in a few timeless accents that carry you through the entire fall.

What’s New & What’s Great on Amazon

Amazon has made it really convenient. The MacKenzie-Childs Fall & Halloween storefront includes everything from seasonal pumpkins and acorns to more dramatic pieces (witchy cauldrons, skulls, festive foliage).

Here are some of my favorites & what makes them so good:

Courtly Harlequin Jack O' Lantern – That black-and-white diamond pattern is so iconic. A small one like this can sit on your mantel, cluster with other pumpkins, or be the focal point of a side table.

Sterling Check Mini Pumpkin – A softer, more neutral take with grey-and-white check that works in living rooms or bedrooms where you want fall warmth without darker tones.

Decorative Mini Pumpkin Set of 3 – Such an easy way to add fall scatter decor. Think mantle filler, centerpiece accent, or dining table.

Sterling Stripe Medium Pumpkin – The gray-and-white tones make this one of the most versatile pumpkins in the collection. It layers beautifully with brighter fall accents.

Toile Small Pumpkin – A chic twist on fall decor, the toile print adds a more refined and unexpected pattern.

Pillar Candles (Sterling Check + Black & Ivory Check) – Add height and cozy lighting to mantels, coffee tables, or dining setups. Both patterns mix beautifully with pumpkins and acorns.

Sterling Check Kitchen Canister – A functional piece that looks just as good on your countertop as it does in your fall tablescape. Great for storing treats, coffee, or even wrapped candies during the season.

Sterling Check Pedestal Vase – A statement piece for florals, branches, or seasonal greenery. It anchors a table or entryway beautifully while carrying that timeless MacKenzie-Childs look.

Max, Ruby Lou, and Cheddar also have MacKenzie-Childs pet bowls, which are also now available on Amazon!

How to Style MacKenzie-Childs Fall Decor in Your Home

Because having something beautiful isn’t just enough—you deserve to use it in ways that feel like YOU. Here are some styling suggestions (yes, I love this part):

1. Layers + Patterns: Pair the bold Courtly Check pumpkins with softer textures like wool throws or linen napkins. Let the checks pop but balance them with muted tones.

2. Grouping for Impact: Use pumpkins/acorns in groups of odd numbers to create visual interest. A trio of pumpkin sizes (mini, medium, squashed) across a mantel or stair ledge is so autumn-y.

3. Use Them in Functional Places: Don’t just put these on mantels or shelves. Think front door entrance tables, coffee tables with stacked books + pumpkin on top, dining table runners with acorns as part of your place settings. Even bathrooms benefit from a small pumpkin on a tray or acorn accents around soap or towels.

4. Mix Halloween + Harvest: Let’s face it, fall = Halloween + Thanksgiving + cozy gatherings. Choose pieces from the line that can transition well. For example, pumpkin shapes + muted checks work for harvest, then add in spookier items or figurines closer to Halloween. The Amazon storefront already groups them nicely.

Amazon Shopping Tips & What to Know

To make sure your MacKenzie-Childs pieces arrive safely and you get the best deal, a few tips:

• Check the “Sold by”: Make sure it’s “MacKenzie-Childs” so the finish, color and craftsmanship are true.

• Inspect Product Descriptions: Handmade or hand-painted pieces may vary slightly. This is part of their charm, but good to know for coordinating sets.

• Watch for Prime / Free Shipping: Seasonal decor tends to get high demand and best options sell out. If you have Prime, filter that way.

• Bundle & Save: Sometimes grouping multiple fall decor items in one shipment saves on shipping or packaging. Also, Amazon sometimes promotes “related decor” sets.

Also: I know many of you are busy. Amazon’s availability makes it easier because of faster shipping, easy returns, good browsing. You don’t have to wait for a special order or pay crazy shipping. You can find pieces locally through Amazon and get the magic of MacKenzie-Childs delivered right to your doorstep.

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Which MacKenzie-Childs fall items do you have your eye on? Don't forget to shop additional fall home decor ideas here. I have included some additional MacKenzie-Childs decor in this blog post as well. You know how much I love to decorate for the holidays! REMINDER: Get 10% off MacKenzie-Childs at Amazon with code MCFALL10 

Happy fall, y'all! xoxo - Tanya

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