FINAL TOUCH: LAYER SLAYER

Want to hone your personal style this fall? Show some restraint.

You probably know and admire––and possibly even resent?––someone who makes it all look so effortless. Fashion-wise, that is. In fact, you definitely know the type. These are the people who, ostensibly, wake up every day and slide into the perfect ensemble with breezy conviction. These unflappable sorts are not style mavens or especially clothes-obsessed; they just exude a cool self-assurance, and wear what feels comfortable, and, as it happens, what looks good.

Trust, however, that these folks put more forethought into their wardrobes than you think. They execute this bit of harmless sartorial deception thanks, in large part, to calculated simplicity and restraint. Layers, neutral colors, several carefully chosen items that mix and match well, a key accessory here and there; this is how you own casual fall weekends.

When it comes to autumn-appropriate wear, it so often starts with a classic sneaker: say,all-black low tops, for argument’s sake. Consider this a solid base to build on. Don’t hide those lace-ups either––cuffed skinny trousers or jeans, in black or dark grey, are the right move. Stick to the same color scheme on top, with a white tee thrown in for good measure, as you layer with light jumpers, cardigans, and sweaters. Remember: you don’t have to do much for your fall weekend wardrobe to be greater, and more versatile, than the sum of its parts.