15 Sep Neutral, Not Boring: Fresh Ways to Style Fall Basics

According to Starbucks, Trader Joes, and your local fashionista, fall is here and bringing all of its rich, luxurious colors with it. Picture deep chocolate browns, classic black, red-hued neutrals like burgundy, and an autumnal spin on traditionally summery whites and creams. However, if “fall neutrals” brings drab, heavy, or dull to mind, think again. Consider this your cheat sheet to intentionally styling neutrals in your fall wardrobe, rather than letting them fade into the background.

Why White & Cream Work in Fall

White and cream are anything but strictly seasonal. With all the warm and cozy colors that fall brings, your whites and creams might seem like they belong to spring. But we’re here to set the record straight. The key to great style is all about finding pieces that work for you and letting your personality come to the forefront–despite the antiquated “rules” of fashion. These colors provide a stark contrast to those richer hues and allow them to pop beautifully without being overpowering. Plus, they make layering feel crisp and deliberate—never clunky or muddled.

Foolproof Color Combinations

Lean on these color combinations for those five-minute morning routine type of days when you cannot be bothered to think through various outfit options. Any combination of these will automatically result in a put-together look, even if you’re not feeling as much on the inside.

Trending color + Neutral

Ease new, trending colors into your existing wardrobe by pairing them with classic fall colors that you’re used to, such as chocolate brown (a 2024 fall favorite, back for another year!).

Neutral + Neutral

Neutrals that are anything but boring. These tones bring out the best in one another, creating a warm and indulgent feel–without the effort of thinking through an outfit.

Trending color + Accent color

Unexpected color pairings are proving to be a new and exciting trend for fall. A color pairing like this one is a great way to experiment with this trend, without going full maximalist if that’s not true to your style.

Neutral + Accent color

Nothing screams luxury more than a deep chocolate brown paired with a contrasting cream. Look like a million bucks for the cost of a reliable closet staple that will last in your wardrobe for years to come.

Monochromatic

Get that model off-duty, cool girl air of effortlessness with a monochromatic look. Pair white on white or brown on brown for an outfit that takes zero guesswork to put together.

*Stylist tip: Break up your monochromatic look with a contrasting or printed belt. Animal print is trending for fall, so this is an approachable way to dip into a trend that may be out of your comfort zone.

Transitioning Summer Staples to Fall

If you’re still loving white jeans or dresses, don’t stash them until spring—you can update them with cooler-weather layers. Think:

-A slinky cami under an oversized cardigan

-White jeans with your go-to sweater and ankle boots

-A breezy white dress with earthy-toned outerwear for intentional juxtaposition

Your neutrals aren’t just a passive backdrop for your more “fun” pieces. This fall, put them to work in your wardrobe. They elevate everyday basics, refresh your seasonal staples, and insert a chic aura into every outfit. Request a Style Box to refresh your fall wardrobe now.