A Lightweight Early Fall Style

A man in a light fall outfit for warm weather poses indoors against a plain off-white background. He is wearing a beige shirt-jacket with black buttons over a partially unbuttoned white shirt with a necklace
It’s made for the long season between iced coffee and hot chocolate.

By  

This post may contain affiliate links, read about our editorial promise

Mornings feel easier now, the kind that let you reach for something light without second-guessing it. In warmer parts of the country, fall doesn’t bring much weather to talk about, just a change in pace. You start to want texture, softer fabrics, clothes that look seasonally right without adding heat. A tan jacket fits that balance, structured enough to look intentional, easy enough to wear through the afternoon.

Underneath, a white Oxford that’s been softened by a few washes, jeans with a lived-in feel, and a braided belt that adds a small bit of detail. Desert boots tie it together, useful and relaxed, ready for whatever the day turns into.

A man stands in a full-body shot against a plain off-white background. He wears a beige shirt-jacket with black buttons, a white button-down shirt, blue jeans with a brown braided belt, and tan suede chukka boots. One hand is in his pocket and the other rests at his side.
A flat lay of a lightweight men's casual fall outfit arranged on a white surface. The items include a beige shirt-jacket, a white button-down shirt, blue jeans with a brown braided belt, green socks, tan suede chukka boots, a gold necklace, and a gold ring.

Buck Mason doeskin jacket

Soft Tan Cropped Jacket

Somewhere between a shirt and a fleece, which makes it comfortable most days. The brushed cotton feels soft, almost suede-like, and shapes itself over time. You can wear it on its own or layer it over sweaters when the breeze shows up.

Try: Buck Mason / Levi's / Uniqlo / Everlane / Banana Republic

mens long sleeve white oxford shirt

Oxford Cloth Button Down Shirt

A dependable layer that works with anything you throw over it. The fabric has a sturdy weave that keeps its form through the day, even when the temperature shifts. It looks clean without feeling stiff, and it handles heat or a light jacket equally well.

Try: Amazon Essentials / Flint & Tinder

men's light wash jeans with a brown leather braided belt and a gold ring

Medium Wash Classic Fit Jeans

The kind of denim that fits into any plan in any season. Straight leg, classic rise, a color that gets better with age. They work as easily with boots as with sneakers.

Flint & Tinder / Gap

Braided Leather Belt

The same one that had its moment in the 90s, back again and fitting right in. The woven texture adds dimension to the outfit, especially next to the clean lines of an Oxford and straight jeans. It gives the look a touch of retro ease that feels natural with the other enduring pieces, not nostalgic.

Eddie Bauer / J.Crew

Jewelry

Make it intentional, make it personal. Read about how I finally figured jewelry out. 

desert boots with light wash straight jeans

Desert Boots

First worn by British officers in North Africa, still ideal for warm-weather fall. The suede feels seasonal without adding heft, and the crepe sole keeps them light and flexible. They pair cleanly with jeans or chinos, adding texture and ease without trapping heat.

Clarks / Astorflex / J.Crew

This post may contain affiliate links, read about our editorial promise
Andrew Snavely

Andrew founded Primer in 2008 and brings 15+ years of men's style expertise. Known for his practical, relatable approach to style and self-development, he has been a recognized speaker at conferences and has styled work for top brands. Off-duty, he loves photography & editing, and enjoys road trips with his dog, Leela. Raised in rural Pennsylvania, educated in DC, and living in LA for nearly 20 years, Andrew's diverse experiences shape the relatable and real-world advice that has helped millions through Primer. On Instagram: @andrewsnavely and @primermagazine.