Story by Ashley White of Le Stylo Rouge | Photos by Sabrina Osborn
Grab those pumpkin spice lattes, it’s fall in Kansas City! Are you ready to switch into sweater mode? I know I am.
As much as I love a jeans-and-a-sweater combo, I look for other bottom options earlier in the fall season to balance how heavily I lean into that outfit framework all winter long. This means shirts, shorts, and slouchy trousers!
I started with this black and white striped cotton sweater for a nice dash of prep to kick off the look. I love the zippered front and the exaggerated sailor’s collar. Instead of denim, I grabbed a pair of high-waisted wide-leg trousers in this any-season mushroom taupe color. This style of pants was everywhere over the summer with crop tops and sandals – but it easily translates to autumn when paired with a sweater.
I rolled up the hem of the sweater to add a little structure, which is key when working with two oversized pieces. To do this, tuck the sweater’s hem into the band of your bra instead of the waistband of the trousers to keep from adding bulk to your midsection. (This is one of my favorite styling tricks!)
The ballet flat is having a moment this fall – it’s been a staple for ages, but it was all over the fall runways. I chose a simple black suede flat with an almond toe, but look for pointed-toe versions or Mary Jane-style straps and you’ll be right in step with the trend.
The final look really hits the nail on the early autumn head: it’s cozy, but not stifling. It feels like October without overshooting into Thanksgiving, which is perfect for those fall days when chilly mornings and evenings bookend warm, sunny afternoons.
This outfit is adaptable, too. Sudden early freeze? Layer a jacket on top and swap the ballet flat for a heeled ankle bootie. Unexpectedly warm? Tuck a basic black tank into the trousers and really lean into that preppy vibe by draping the sweater over your shoulders.
Wishing you a chic fall season, KC!
You can find Ashley at lestylorouge.com or on Instagram at @ashrockchalk
