Fall is one of the best seasons for classic menswear because you can add additional layers in rich, subdued, earthy colors, which are just a joy to look at. It’s also the start of the season to wear winter accessories such as gloves, lightweight scarves, sweaters, vests, and all those things that just don’t make too much sense during the summer season.
As you prepare for fall, ensure your wardrobe is prepped with the fall essentials. To help you build an autumn wardrobe, we’ve compiled a list of must-have items, from head to toe, that every classic gentleman should consider adding this fall.
What Should You Wear for Fall? 11 (Plus 2 Bonus!) Must-Have Items for the Classic Gentleman
To embody the refined style of a classic gentleman, it’s essential to curate a fall wardrobe that balances sophistication with practicality. Below, we’ve outlined the top fall menswear essentials every elegant man should consider incorporating into his attire.
1. Unlined Gloves
When it is very cold, you naturally want the insulating benefits of cozy warm gloves. In transitional seasons like fall, however, unlined gloves have the benefit of a very refined and elegant appearance.
Also, during the transitioning season, you don’t need a cashmere lining or alpaca lining because it would simply be too warm. At the same time, going without gloves is a little bit too cold, so go with unlined gloves; it is the best of both worlds while giving you a chance to add some color to your outfit in an unusual way.
This classic style combination from the past proves that fall ensembles don’t have to be boring. It features unlined yellow gloves, a gray overcoat, and a flat cap, ideal for a refined gentleman’s wardrobe.
During the 19th century, when modern glove-wearing culture developed, the finest pair of gloves that a gentleman could own were chamois yellow, a bright and versatile color that could pair with anything.
Because he had a hard time finding unlined gloves, Raphael simply designed them himself as part of our Fort Belvedere line. He opted for a very lean, slim cut that is very elegant; he added a button at the wrist to ensure a tight fit. Raphael even created a line of driving gloves to wear with everyday outfits because they are airier and help to keep your hands cool.
If you go with unlined gloves, make sure to add a dash of color that is fall-appropriate because black gloves simply don’t suit the rich brown, green, orange, and whatever fall tones you incorporate in your wardrobe.
These unlined gloves are perfect if it’s not a too cold fall day but more of the warmer fall days.
Fort Belvedere
Burgundy Suede Unlined Leather Gloves
Fort Belvedere
Chamois Yellow Unlined Peccary Gloves
Fort Belvedere
Navy Unlined Lamb Suede Gloves
2. Knit Ties
Eaphael likes knit ties because they have this really nice texture, and today, you can find lots of knit ties on the market. Traditionally, the ones with the thickest texture are the cris de la soie ties, and they have the crunch in them; you can hear the crunch when you move it back and forth slightly.
Traditionally, they were knitted flat then put on a wooden form and sewn together by hand, and that is exactly how we make our Fort Belvedere knit ties today. Most knit ties you can find on the market are knitted like a sock, and they are a lot more flimsy than the texture and the weft of the old-school quality knit ties.
In terms of color, we suggest to leave behind the pastel colors and rather opt for something like bottle green, maybe a purple, or a bronze rust orange. Of course, you can also go with a tobacco brown, maybe a two-tone shade in cognac and dark charcoal, or a mustard yellow.
Because they have more texture, you can combine them with casual outfits such as a cardigan or a sweater, but you can also wear them with tweed coats, which are very elegant and stylish and very seasonally appropriate.
3. Suede Boots
Now, boots are, in general, ideal for fall because they are lined with leather most of the time, and they are not overly warm. At the same time, they keep you warmer than a regular pair of Oxfords or derby shoes.
We suggest you get them with a thicker leather sole and use lace-ups. We personally think lace-ups are great with a suede shoe such as a chukka boot. Of course, you can also get different options, such as a desert boot in a sand color. We think the most versatile one that you can incorporate into your wardrobe is a mid-brown, maybe a chestnut brown, and the suede just gives it a softer character.
If you can only afford one pair of boots, we suggest you go with something burgundy because you can combine it with a suit, as well as all kinds of casual garments. Also, if you want to spice up the look of your boots, you can simply go with contrasting colored bootlaces because that way, it looks like an entirely new boot, and you just invest a few dollars rather than buying an entirely new pair of boots.
If you are not into lace-up boots, maybe you can consider a Chelsea boot, which is a classic with an insert, and to spice things up, you can maybe add a colored insert.
For more insights on essential autumn boots, check out our guide on essential autumn/fall boots. If you’re considering other stylish footwear options, our guide on loafers for fall and winter offers great alternatives.
4. Vest/Waistcoat
The terms vest and waistcoat are used interchangeably, but no matter what you call it, it adds another layer to your outfit. Usually, it’s an odd vest, meaning it’s a contrasting color, and it just helps you to create entirely different looks into your existing wardrobe while keeping the budget very low. Vests in earthy hues like olive, brown, or tan can perfectly complement your fall palette.
5. Tweed Jacket/Sportcoat
If you follow the Gentleman’s Gazette regularly, you know that we love tweed. Raphael personally owns over a dozen of tweed jackets. The beauty of tweed is that it’s comprised of lots of different colors. From a distance, it might appear as a solid fabric, but up close, you’ll notice a rich blend of hues. Because of that, it is very easy for you to wear it with other colored garments, and it always looks like they work really well together.
A darker to medium brown tweed coat pairs beautifully with fall trousers, adding a warm depth of color. This combination results in a harmonious, elegant, and seasonally appropriate look for fall.
How To Choose the right
Jacket for Fall
If you’re new to tweed, we suggest you get what is called a Donegal tweed which means there are little knobs all over the place in a contrasting color, or maybe with a simple oatmeal-colored herringbone tweed because it’s a very popular pattern, it’s very classic, and you can combine it with lots of things.
A traditional plaid tweed can also serve as an ideal top layer, providing both texture and a classic pattern to your outfit.
6. Quilted Jacket
A quilted jacket is great because it keeps you warm; at the same time, it is lightweight, and if you choose a length that covers your jacket, you can easily wear it on top without looking too formal.
Also, you can wear it with casual outfits, and you can just put it on when you go to the gas station or get some groceries. It is also lighter than an overcoat and easier to travel with. If you like something that is a little more formal, we suggest you get a trench coat with a removable interlining because that way, you can wear it during the warmer days of fall in the beginning, as well as during the colder ones later on.
Find out why you need quilted jackets in your wardrobe
7. Flat Cap
The flat cap is a staple of men’s fall fashion. It is a wonderful hat, providing both style and extra warmth. It is stylish and usually worn by younger men, even teenagers, as well as older men. The flat cap has seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to cultural influences, notably from celebrities like David Beckham and the TV drama Peaky Blinders, which have helped reframe it as a fashionable choice for all.
They are also not very expensive and are usually made out of tweed, making them easy to combine with other colors. It’s less formal than a fedora, making it a great entry-level hat that complements various hues in your wardrobe.
How to pull off a flat cap?
8. Wool Accessories
Most of the time, ties are made out of silk, and that is just fine; at the same time, maybe a pocket square in wool, or a tie, or a flat cap simply helps you to create a softer look in your outfit that is very appropriate for fall or autumn. Unlike silk, which is crispy and shiny, wool is softer and much more matte, which makes it very suitable for fall outfits.
Fall & Winter Silk-Wool Pocket Square
If there is just one wool item we think every man should have, it is a woolen pocket square simply because it helps to balance the texture even if you have an entire closet full of silk ties.
Moreover, it is less expensive than ties, so it is a great start if you don’t have any wool accessories yet.
Pocket Squares for Fall & Winter: Men’s Accessories for Autumn
9. Corduroy Pants/Trousers
We know some people may think they make you look like an old professor in college or a school teacher, but corduroy is an ideal fall fabric and always has been because it is so warm and seasonally appropriate.
Corduroy has a very nice color scheme, and because of the way the fabric is created, it has a different look in different light conditions, and it helps to create a soft overall outfit that is much better during fall-winter than it is during spring and summer.
The great thing about corduroy is that it comes traditionally in lots of different colors, mostly earthy colors such as olive green, brown, and tan, which are very easy to combine during the fall-winter season.
10. Pastel Dress Shirt
To learn more about the Oxford cloth button-down shirt
11. Lightweight Knitted Sweaters
Usually, you don’t need the heavy woolen cashmere sweaters until later in the season, so you want a finer knit just to help keep you warm; at the same time, you want to look stylish. Because the knit is thinner, you want them close to your body, so it is a very flattering silhouette.
Pairing a tie with a sweater is a stylish option. Just make sure you get a v-neck sweater because with a crew neck, it almost covers the entire tie knot, and it has a look that is not favorable.
Avoid black and navy sweaters, as they tend to be too dark for fall. Likewise, stay clear of very light and bright sweaters because they are just too bright and don’t work with the rest of your fall wardrobe.
Instead, go with a burgundy sweater, which is very versatile, or a medium blue, brown, oatmeal, bottle green, or maybe orange. All these tones harmonize beautifully with the fall season.
Fall Style Essentials FAQ
What are fall colors for men?
Fall colors for men typically include rich, muted, and earthy tones that reflect the season’s natural palette. Think of colors like burgundy, olive green, mustard yellow, burnt orange, brown, navy, and deep shades of red and purple.
What kind of fabric is best for fall outfits?
For fall outfits, it’s best to opt for fabrics that provide warmth and texture without being too heavy. Wool, flannel, tweed, and corduroy are classic choices that offer insulation and style. Cotton is great for layering, while materials like cashmere and merino wool add a luxurious touch to sweaters and scarves.
How do you mix patterns and textures for fall?
When mixing patterns, ensure they differ in scale; for example, pair a large plaid with a smaller, subtle check. Keep your color palette cohesive to avoid clashing. For more tips on mixing patterns and textures, check out our guide on matching colors and textures for men in fall.
What type of footwear is in for men this fall?
For fall, men’s footwear trends include versatile and stylish options like suede chukka boots, leather Chelsea boots, and classic brogues. Loafers with rich leather or suede finishes are also popular for less formal occasions.
What should you avoid wearing during the fall?
During fall, it’s best to avoid overly bright or neon colors that clash with the season’s muted palette. Lightweight summer fabrics like linen or seersucker can leave you feeling cold and out of place. Also, avoid short sleeves unless you’re layering them under a sweater or jacket.
Two Bonus Essentials
Our next two items did not appear in our video, but we have added them as a bonus consideration for those of you reading our online content.
12. Flannel Shirt
Nothing embodies the coziness of fall quite like a flannel shirt. This cotton staple is great for achieving a rugged but polished look. Flannels often feature plaid patterns that bring texture and color into your wardrobe, aligning with the earthy hues of the season.
Pair a flannel shirt with blue jeans for a laid-back weekend look, or layer it under a leather jacket for added warmth and style. To explore more ways to style flannel shirts, check out our guide on how to wear flannel shirts and our flannel guide for fall.
13. Belts
A well-chosen belt is not just a functional accessory; it’s a critical component of a classic gentleman’s wardrobe that ties the whole look together.
For fall, consider belts made from rich leather in shades of brown, oxblood, or deep tan that complement the earthy tones of the season. When choosing a belt, ensure it matches or complements your shoes, especially if you’re opting for autumnal footwear like suede boots or leather brogues.
Don’t forget to introduce gold belt buckles to your ensemble, as they pair effortlessly with fall trousers and add a refined touch to your outfit.
Classic Fall Outfits for Men
For a classic gentleman’s fall wardrobe, it’s best to avoid t-shirts and graphic tees, which can undermine the refined aesthetic of the season. Instead, focus on layering crisp dress shirts, lightweight knitted sweaters, and timeless outerwear like tweed jackets or quilted coats.
Using the classic fall pieces we listed, we’ve curated a fall look to inspire every gentleman. These outfits demonstrate how to effortlessly blend essential fall pieces for a polished and cohesive style that embodies the essence of classic menswear.
To replicate the exact looks showcased above, explore our fall lookbook, where you’ll find detailed guides on achieving each outfit.
Conclusion
As the leaves turn and the air chills, updating your accessory game is key to nailing the fall look. Whether it’s a classic wool pocket square that adds sophistication to any outfit, a leather belt that combines functionality with style, or a pair of boots that will crunch through the leaves, these essentials are more than just add-ons—they’re the subtle details that can elevate your entire ensemble. So, as you gear up for the season, remember that the right accessories don’t just complement your wardrobe; they complete it.
