The first day of fall usually feels like a typical summer day in Southern California. But I’m always eager to move on to the new season. Over the years, I’ve used the same strategy to make the transition and create outfits that feel more current with how I want to dress now. I turn to light weight sweaters, cotton shirts, and let bare ankles peek out from trousers into a polished shoe. The key is to let the palette dictate the season, not the clothes themselves.
Co poplin shirt and Khaite jeans (wearing), Erdem shirt, Khaite cardigan, Khaite cardigan, Bottega Veneta bag, Gucci loafers
Several photos I used for inspiration confirmed black jeans and trousers will be the anchor of my wardrobe. Cropped, full leg, straight, high waisted – anything goes as long as the pant sits at the waistline. I prefer a wide leg, pleated fit worn with a belt for an elevated interpretation of a style that can often look uninspired. Slipping on a flat or heeled loafer in polished leather is more than welcome after living in sneakers and flat sandals all summer. I immediately feel pulled together.
above: Khaite sweater, Toteme pants
Soft knit sweaters and cool cotton tops in warm neutrals are the perfect transitioning element to pair with black. Of course, they’ll also wear well with denim in any shade. Cardigans are a having a major moment and along with patterned sweaters, will make my closet look current. When colder months approach, I’ll simply add layers. Khaite has several of my favorites including the short-sleeved super light weight cashmere above. I also love the silhouette in a tiger pattern or solid black.
On warm fall days, I’ll pass on the sweaters and reach for a cool cotton shirt in an interesting color or a crisp white to contrast black bottoms. I love the shape of the piece from Co in the opening images and the high ruffled neckline on the sleeveless top from Erdem I’m wearing above – a perfect layering piece under jackets and knits as the temps go down. I’d also just as quickly toss on one of the Isabel Marant Etoile shirts I posted about earlier this month.
The final touch is sporting a great bag. There are so many to choose from this season, but my heart is set on the Padded Cassette bag from Bottega Veneta. I’ve loved it since Daniel Lee introduced the exaggerated weave detail in his debut collection for BV. On a side note, I bought it in Mallard Blue, but returned it for a classic shade – black, brown or even this deep merlot. The Row and Khaite have some stunning, simple options too.
clockwise from top left: Bottega Veneta, Khaite, The Row, Bottega Veneta, Tom Ford, Saint Laurent, The Row, Gucci
At the start of each season, my shopping begins at Mytheresa, where I’m able to focus on a well edited selection of pieces. I’ve partnered with them over the years on several posts and love every item that’s found its way to my closet. They’re the keepers, often investment pieces, that don’t get tossed with a wardrobe edit. I’d consider all of the above as additions to that category. Along with beautifully curated merchandise, Mytheresa’s customer service, friendly returns process and speedy shipping keep me coming back for more. If you’re new to shopping their site, I suggest starting with a few of their edits, such as Essentials, Investment Pieces, and New Arrivals.
Thank you Mytheresa for partnering with A Note on Style on this post.
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Patricia
Karima, love every bit of this fall inspiration. I want it all!
As a side note, your hair looks great without a side part.
Karima
Thank you. I’ve been wearing my hair like this for a couple of months to avoid heat drying and a ponytail. It’s so ridiculously easy! I think it’s helping the condition of my hair too.
paula c.
Totally agree…this style really looks good on you :)
Zivile
Your necklaces steel the show imho. They are beyond beautiful!
Karima
Thank you! I’ve been enjoying wearing jewelry again. ❤️
Kim
Karima, just ordered the jeans and Co blouse. I was searching for some pieces like this for an upcoming trip and my fall wardrobe…thank you. Agree about your necklaces and earrings. Who are they by? Also wanted to ask about the belt you wear in the pic with the jeans and the cardigan. It all looks great.
Karima
Fantastic! I love the Co shirt tucked into jeans or loose over a slim pant. The volume makes it a chic and versatile piece. I hope you enjoy it. The belt is old… at least by 10 years! The jewelry is collected pieces mixed with a diamond pendant from my mother – not by any brand. And the earrings I’ve had since I was a teenager!!! I rarely, if ever, part with jewelry. Thank you. ❤️
Kim
If I may ask, what size did you take in the Khaite Dianna cardigan? I love the look of a cropped cardigan, but always shy away given that I’m 5’9.
Thank you for the answers on the belt and jewelry. Wearing things you’ve had for a while makes them even more special!
Karima
I’m 5’9” also and can relate to the cropped silhouette problem. The one I’m photographed in is a large (went up in size for the exact concern of being too short) but I would prefer a medium. It’s a generous cut. I ordered the tiger print in a medium…it’s on its way to me now.
Susan
Love all of this….and especially your Chanel loafers. Are they still available some where?
Karima
Thank you! They’re new so hopefully you can track them down at a Chanel boutique or other store. I found mine at Neimans Marcus.
Tara
Loved everything in this post!!
Call Berg
Off topic: can you share the paint color in your bedroom… so tranquil!!
Karima
Yes! It’s Carolina Gull at 75%. Benjamin Moore.
Diane
I LOVE the color combinations in this post
Taunula
All of these pieces are very stylish. Thank you for these well curated looks!
Karima
Thank you!
LilyB
I would not have looked twice at the Co blouse on line, but they way you style it makes me think it MUST have it! Great look.
Karima
It’s even better in person.
LAURABETH
All so beautiful and so you! Your foundation and eye makeup are gorgeous.
Are you comfortable with sharing the details?
Thank you for your ongoing inspiration.
Karima
I’m happy to share! Both the foundation and eye makeup is Westman Atelier. I’ve loved the foundation for years and just recently added their Eye Pod Trio. Thank you.
LAURABETH
Thank you so much! I wear the Westman Atelier foundation as well, and now am looking forward to buying the Eye Pod Trio.
Happy new season to you.