How to Build a Sustainable Fall Capsule Wardrobe in 10 Pieces

More and more women are concerned about what we put on our bodies just as much as what goes inside. Our editor-in-chief, Lauren Dimet Waters, has been promoting sustainable fashion, so I thought I would put together a fall capsule collection that’s both chic and eco-conscious.

So, what is a capsule wardrobe? It’s basically a working closet of versatile basics that can be easily interchanged to give you a variety of looks with fewer pieces. Think quality over quantity, which is also a very sustainable concept.

How to Know if a Brand is Sustainable

You can’t always go by buzzwords like “green” or “organic.” Instead, look for transparency from brands as well as certifications and practices that show real commitment:

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GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): for organic fibers
Fair Trade: ensures ethical treatment of workers
B-Corp Certification: shows a brand meets high standards for social and environmental impact
Made locally or transparent supply chain: clear accountability and reduced carbon footprint

10 Piece Sustainable Fall Capsule Wardrobe

I put together 10 fall essentials to make up this sustainable capsule wardrobe for 2025. These pieces are ideal for women over 50 because they’re practical, stylish, comfortable and well-made by brands that prioritize sustainability.

1. Long Sleeve T-shirt

KOTN Women’s Set Longsleeve, $48

A versatile base layer for fall is a long-sleeve tee. KOTN makes theirs from Egyptian cotton and is committed to fair trade and responsible sourcing. This scoop-neck top in plum is my favorite style and color for fall.

2. Jeans

DL1961 Karmine Refined Wide Leg High Rise Jeans, $229

DL1961 is one of the most sustainable denim brands around, using an innovative waterless system that uses less than 10 gallons of water per pair of jeans. They also recycle old denim into new fabric. This wide-leg style is right on trend and flattering for many body types.

3. Jersey Dress

Eileen Fisher Stretch Jersey Knit Jewel Neck Dress, $198

Eileen Fisher has long been a leader in ethical fashion, from sustainable fabrics to fair trade practices. A basic black dress like this is endlessly versatile—wear it with sneakers, belt it with boots, or dress it up for evening with heels and jewelry.

4. Trench Coat

Eileen Fisher Light Cotton Nylon Trench Coat, now $207.20

Fall weather calls for a good coat, and nothing beats a trench. This lightweight style works rain or shine, and classic preppy staples like this are trending again

5. Cardigan Sweater

Naadam Signature Cashmere Boyfriend Cardigan, now $158.40

A cozy oversized cardigan in sustainable cashmere is a must. Naadam is known for sourcing cashmere directly from Mongolian herders, cutting out the middleman to ensure fair wages while reducing environmental impact.

6. Button Down Shirt

Reformation Alfie Relaxed Shirt, $128

Reformation is one of the most well-known sustainable brands, using eco-friendly fabrics like Tencel, recycled materials, and deadstock fabrics. They’re also transparent about their supply chain and carbon footprint. I love this relaxed black button-front for fall (also available in white).

7. Blazer

Reformation Caden Blazer, $298

A capsule wardrobe isn’t complete without a blazer. This double-breasted black blazer is endlessly versatile—wear it over jeans, a dress, or even under your trench for a pulled-together fall look.

8. Belt

Quince Allegra European Leather Belt, $49.90

A belt is essential for cinching dresses and sweaters or just polishing off your jeans. Quince is all about luxury basics at fair prices, made with transparent supply chains and ethical factories. This leather belt comes in black, espresso, and saddle —perfect fall shades.

9. Handbag

Hyer Goods The Piccola Ring Bag, $435

Yes, handbags can be sustainable too! Hyer Goods uses deadstock leather and leftover materials from luxury brands to create stylish, eco-friendly bags. This Piccola Ring Bag has adjustable straps and can be worn 3 different ways. It’s like owning 3 different bags! Wear it short as a top handle bag, medium length as a short crescent bag or as a crossbody bag.

10. Ankle Boots

Reformation Dominique Ankle Boot, $398

A walkable pair of ankle boots is a fall must-have. Reformation makes these from sustainable materials, and this sleek leather style is perfect for pairing with everything in your wardrobe.

Outfit Ideas with Your Sustainable Capsule

Here are just a few ways to mix and match:

Casual Outfit: Jeans + Long Sleeve Tee + Cardigan + Boots + Bag

Work Outfit: Jeans + Belt + Blazer + Boots + Bag

Dress Outfit: Black Dress + Belt + Boots + Trench + Bag

Whether you need a whole new wardrobe for fall or just a few thoughtful updates, I hope this inspires you to shop sustainably and build a chic, timeless capsule wardrobe.

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