Fall Wardrobe Essentials 2020
A high-quality turtleneck, a well-tailored blazer, boots. Thanks to more time spent at home and fewer opportunities to dress up, we’ve become laser focused on fundamental wardrobe staples. And while previously these might have been relegated to “building blocks”—namely, pieces that create a canvas for something more exciting to shine—these closet pillars are currently enjoying time in the fashion spotlight. Here, Team Moda introduces the only 10 pieces you need this season—and endless outfit options for each.
Dating back to World War I, trenches were originally designed for the British military (hence the name) but quickly transcended social stratums, and were worn by everyone from the working class to the royal family. Today, its appeal remains universal, with the fashion pack adopting the silhouette as a mainstay.
Constructed from lightweight yet insulated and weatherproof fabrics, it’s the epitome of transitional wear, ideal for in-between days when it’s neither too cold nor too warm. Then, there’s the layering piece (a benefit few coats can claim). Trenches tend to be thin enough to slide beneath heavier outerwear (try letting the collar poke out from beneath) or worn over a chunky sweater (no need to worry about stiff, narrow arms). Finally, its archetypal status gives designers an ideal foundation on which to creatively experiment, whether that’s Daniel Lee’s luxurious renditions at Bottega Veneta, Martin Grant’s finely-crafted classics, or Jonathan Anderson’s arsty spins for Loewe. Choose yours accordingly.
PICTURED: LA COLLECTION Trench Coat, GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI Boots, LE17 SEPTEMBRE Sweater
Historically, “two-in-one” may not have always had the most desirable connotations (see: shampoo), but that changed after Phoebe Philo presented the scarf-cum-sweater for Celine’s Pre-Fall ‘18 collection, her last for the French house.
Fast forward to 2020 and the two-for-one has propelled the humble knit to hero status. Its extended drapery captures the casual insouciance of styling sweaters knotted over your shoulder (while discarding any preppy factor). Look to fine yarns in sophisticated shades—we love mushroom, brick, and cobalt blue—and pair with skirts or pants alike, tucked in or out.
Fit for any and all terrains, stompy boots—defined mostly by a hardy lug sole and flat(ish) heel—are currently having a moment. They occupy that sweet spot on the Venn diagram: undeniably functional yet achingly cool.
From New York to Paris, the Fall /Winter runways were rarely without them. At Valentino, Pierpaolo Piccioli styled refined leather combat boots with supple leather skirts, slouchy evening trousers, and even delicate organza dresses. Over in Copenhagen, at Ganni, all 32 looks—from jeans to peter pan collar dresses–were paired with thick-soled rubber boots. Cecilie Bahnsen, a fellow Scandi brand, relies on stompy boots to ground her ethereal cloud-like creations, while Bottega Veneta’s cult hit “Tire” boot—a chunky spin on the Chelsea—has become a symbol of Daniel Lee’s modern, utilitarian vision. The underlying point? You need a pair.
PICTURED: LOULOU STUDIO Sweater, VINCE Skirt, GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI Boots
Stonewash. Skinny. Vintage. Ripped...While trends in denim come and go, the straight-leg jean in a classic blue wash has endured since its creation in 1873. (For a deep dive into its history, read our Denim Personalities story.) Much of its staying power can be attributed to the fact it’s a fail-safe and foolproof option when it comes to mixing and matching. On those days when nothing seems to work, the straight leg always will.
Look for cuts with high-rise waist lines to ensure the most flattering fit possible. A note on length: it’s worth tailoring your straight-leg jeans to hit just above the ankle, which looks better with stomp boots or loafers and socks (a major trend this season).
PICTURED: TOTEME Oversized Shirt, THE ATTICO Jeans, TOTEME Turtleneck, MIU MIU Belt
You likely already have one in your wardrobe, so why might you need another? Peter Lindbergh’s now iconic ‘90s Vogue supermodel shoot might suggest all one needs to look simultaneously sexy, effortless, and fresh is a love-worn men’s oxford, but the reality is a little more nuanced. Brands like Swedish label Toteme (an editor favorite known for its near-perfect essentials) have a classic, oversized cotton poplin version that will never go out of style, while New Zealand-based Georgia Alice writes its own rules with unexpected cutouts, curved lines, and ruching. Then, there’s softly constructed pajama shirting, shirts that double as beach coverups, and statement silhouettes with exaggerated cuffs or collars that we rely on to elevate sweaters and blazers. Either way, it’s an unfortunate truth that whites tend to look tired after a few years of wash and wear. Fortunately, you have plenty of options when the time comes for a refresh.
What do Audrey Hepburn, Rachel Green, Janet Jackson, and just about any ‘70s style icon all have in common? They understood the power of a turtleneck. That is, to streamline (and insulate) just about any cold-weather look.
A non-negotiable for those whose body temperature runs on the colder side, a simple turtleneck that’s built to last makes for a supremely essential layering piece too. Use it to offset a statement trouser or belt, or allow the neck to poke out from beneath shirting, sweaters, and sleeveless dresses. Start with a second-skin black style (we favor Toteme’s) and gradually expand on colors and textures from there.
PICTURED: TOTEME Turtleneck, VINCE Pants, MIU MIU Belt
What the trench is to outerwear, the slip might be to dresses: a timeless layering piece for any time of day—or year. It’s also easily adapted to reflect your personal style. Consider three slip dress proponents from the ‘90s: a fresh-faced Kate Moss who looked angelic in unadorned simplicity; a glamorous, club-ready Naomi Campbell—all legs, lace, and sparkle; and Courtney Love, the queen of grunge who brought an edgy, rock ‘n’ roll attitude.
How to wear it now? Layer it over a turtleneck, throw on a chunky knit (or, for more polish, a cinched blazer), add stompy boots and a trench and you’re sorted for day. Come evening, slip on heels and jewels—and consider keeping a button down or cardigan handy for extra warmth.
PICTURED: ANNA OCTOBER Slip Dress, TOTEME Oversized Shirt, GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI Boots
Many of us thought WFH could be the undoing of the blazer. Au contraire. It’s emerged as the quarantine wardrobe’s unexpected secret weapon, the solution to looking and feeling put together, even if you’re in tatters (emotional, sartorial, and otherwise). As Princess Diana proved time and again, there’s no easier way to refine an outfit. How to make bike shorts a legitimate outfit? Pair them with a blazer. You’re in jeans and a T-shirt but need to look pulled together in a flash? Grab a blazer. Headed out for the night but a dress feels like a little too much? Style your blazer as a chic plunging top.
Our tip? Go with an oversized fit, because with more room comes more versatility. And don’t forget a good belt.
First, let us clarify: we love a good suit. However, ever since tailored trousers were liberated from their blazer counterpart, they’ve found new relevance in the modern woman’s wardrobe—whether she’s working or not. Crafted in sophisticated fabrics such as crepe, flannel, and wool, these elegant trousers enjoy the benefits of good tailoring, while eschewing the “business” vibe and limitations of committing to a full suit. Instead, think of them as the polished, coolly androgynous (and, often, more interesting) alternative to denim.
Whether comfortably slouchy or pressed with a sharp crease, the key to pulling them off is to wear them with a sense of effortless ease. Think: Katharine Hepburn—in sneakers. Consider contrasting with a sexy feminine top, such as one of Khaite’s curve-hugging engineered knit bodysuits. For evening, pair with a cinched blazer worn with nothing other than a chunky gold chain and heels. If you’re going the classic route with a white button down, leave it only partially tucked in to capture that out-of-office ease.
PICTURED: TOTEME Oversized Shirt, ANNA QUAN Blazer, VINCE Pants, GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI Boots
Meet the newest “building block.” While previously considered an extra decorative touch or “nice to have,” chunky gold chains reminiscent of those from the ‘80s and ‘90s have recently ascended the ranks to become a bona fide wardrobe essential in their own right—whether layered or worn alone as a single statement. And it doesn’t stop at jewelry. From handbags to belts: gold link hardware currently plays a starring role across the wardrobe at large.
Most wanted? Anything from Bottega Veneta’s Fall ‘20 collection, where creative director Daniel Lee took his #NewBottega signature gold chains to dizzying heights with exaggerated link straps on the Gathered Leather Shoulder bag and Chain Cassette crossbody. If you’re looking to make less of an investment, snap up the sleek gold-plated jewelry from New York-based label Ben-Amun, a favorite of Team Moda and the transformational missing piece that instantly elevates even the simplest ensemble.
PICTURED: BOTTEGA VENETA Bag
The visionary collaboration creating unique sweaters to promote diversity in art The visionary collaboration creating unique sweaters to promote diversity in art Designer STELLA JEAN and artist MICHAEL ARMITAGE have collaborated to create a limited-edition capsule of exquisite sweaters – works of art in themselves – for YOOX, with profits going to support young artists in Europe and Africa. By SARAH BAILEY At a time when how you choose to attire yourself from the waist up can be conversational catnip on Zoom, those lucky enough to get first dibs on one of the sublime limited-edition sweaters – created by Stella Jean, the Italian designer of Haitian descent, in collaboration with the Kenyan/British artist Michael Armitage – can prepare themselves for some truly profound dialogues, whether on video call or not. 
Fall/winter 2020’s most covetable pieces Fall/winter 2020’s most covetable pieces There’s nothing quite like a new season to inspire a sartorial shift. Whether you’re building the perfect capsule closet or on the hunt for mood-enhancing accessories, the new-season collections are awash with wish-list-worthy pieces that promise to elevate any look. Struggling with the selection process? Let the NET-A-PORTER team advise… “ Isabel Marant has done it again. This season, as ever, the cult designer has taken a classic piece and given it a Parisian twist. 
Why lug-soled boots are 2021’s must-have style Why lug-soled boots are 2021’s must-have style From the best pairs of lug-soled boots out there to how to style them, get the lowdown on this season’s biggest and best footwear trend. By MEGAN LOGUE Lug-soled boots are this season’s most in-demand style, but you might be surprised to learn that they have a history that stretches right back to the 1930s. Prized for their practicality – both then and now – they were the invention of Italian mountaineer Vitale Bramani. A sartorial and athletic innovation, they were designed by Bramani after six of his friends perished during an expedition in the Italian Alps – a tragedy he blamed on the inadequate equipment of the day.