Late autumn in Toronto usually brings with it the first shiver-inducing temperatures, plenty of rain, and the desire to be warm and cozy at all times. This time of year always has me falling back on a bit of a uniform made up of classic, timeless pieces that make it as simple as possible to put together an outfit.
Here’s a roundup of the essentials I’ve been relying on these past few weeks as the thermostat has started to drop significantly. Nothing groundbreaking to be sure, just some hardworking wardrobe pieces that can be worn in a multitude of ways and really epitomise that classic & minimal autumn look I love so much.
First up, the classic trench coat. It goes without saying that everyone should have one of these in their wardrobe, but a classic piece like this comes in especially handy this time of year. It’s a worthy investment in the sense that it will absolutely never go out of style, and it’s easy to get that price per wear super low. Since the trench has been around for so long, it’s also an easy piece to find vintage or secondhand.
Possibly my favourite thing about a trench is the nearly limitless styling and layering options that come with it. Wear it with anything from a chunky knit to a dress, with casual sneakers for errands or with heeled boots for a fancier dinner out. I like to look for special details like the plaid lining of this one from Remain Birger Christensen. This is an old season piece I scored on sale over the summer, but I love scouring SSENSE and Net-a-Porter for these sorts of classic pieces with a twist.
Next up, neutral knitwear. I live in knitwear during the autumn winter season, and like to add a couple to my collection every year because I get so much wear out of them. Keeping things neutral means it will be easy to slot in with existing pieces (again with that cost per wear…), and I honestly just love the chic minimalism of a solid coloured, neutral knit.
I like to stick to natural materials as much as I can to keep things as temperature regulating and sensitive skin friendly as possible, opting for wool, cashmere, or cotton (or any blend of these). To spice things up, I look for special details like ribbed cuffs, collars, or buttons. The one I’m wearing here is from a multi-brand boutique in Vancouver called Neighbour. It was hand-knit for the brand’s private label by artisans in Scotland made from 100% Scottish wool, and I just love the warm grey shade and ribbed cuff details. It’s just a classic piece I know I’ll have for years and years because of how versatile and timeless it is.
Next is probably the least groundbreaking of the bunch, but the trouser has become such a staple for me this season. Versatile and minimal, which is pretty much my wardrobe motto at this point. I especially love styling these with crew socks and sneakers for a bit of a varsity look, yet these look just as good with loafers right up the spectrum to heels. Bonus points if they happen to be wool as well.
Black is of course an essential, but I’ve also been on the hunt for a brown-toned houndstooth pair. These particular ones are from Aritzia, which has become a mainstay at this point. I’ve been wearing their trousers for years and have yet to find anything comparable on style, quality, and price point that are also easily accessible for us Canadians (especially if you’re like me and refuse to buy pants online without trying them on first). I love the pleats on this pair and the classic tapered cut. I’ve been wearing them for errands, drinks, and even a brief visit to the office.
Last but not least, the loafer and sock combo. I fully intend to wear my loafers as late into the season as I’m able, but exposed skin wouldn’t be all that pleasant at this point. I’ve stocked up on a few pairs of crew and trouser socks to wear with these loafers for all sorts of occasions, but this time of year I especially love the varsity-inspired look of a loafer with a white crew sock. I’ve fully converted to buying all my socks from Le Bon Shoppe. I love the boyfriend socks (pictured here) for something more casual and the trouser sock for when I want something thinner or dressier.
I’ve waxed poetic about loafers in the past, but they really are such a smart addition to any wardrobe and I have a strong inkling that these won’t be the last pair I add to my collection.
Jacket – Remain Birger Christensen (old season); Knit – Neighbour (sold out but similar colour linked); Trousers – Aritzia; Loafers – Maguire; Socks – Le Bon Shoppe
