The Small Rituals of Getting Dressed Together

A good capsule wardrobe isn't about owning less, it's about owning things that work together without a second thought. For autumn, a handful of well-chosen pieces, shared in spirit between him and her, can carry the whole season.

The knit that does the heavy lifting

One quality cable-knit sweater, in a color you'd wear on repeat, forms the center of nearly every outfit from October through December.

Gloves and a scarf, not an afterthought

Leather gloves and a good wool scarf aren't just practical, they're the easiest way to finish a look. Choose colors that pull double duty with your coat.

A coffee-and-errands outfit you don't have to think about

Keep one combination, sweater, trousers, boots, permanently ready to go. Autumn mornings move fast, and this is the outfit that never lets you down.

Buy fewer things, in better fabric

Wool and cotton blends hold their shape and warmth far longer than synthetic knits. It's a smaller wardrobe, but one that lasts the season and the next.