Earth Tone Knits

Earth tone knits are the easiest way to make a fall wardrobe feel cohesive. Chocolate, cocoa, espresso, olive, oatmeal and camel all sit close together on the color wheel, so nearly every piece works with every other piece. That makes getting dressed faster and gives outfits a warm, rich look that feels right as the leaves change. Start with the fiber. Cashmere is soft and light, merino is smooth and breathable, and cotton is easy to wash at home. A crewneck is the most versatile shape, while a cardigan doubles as a light jacket on mild days. Mock necks and turtlenecks add warmth and polish under a coat. Look for a dense knit that will not lose its shape. Deep brown flatters almost every skin tone and looks softer than black, which is why it has become the neutral of the moment.

The fastest way to wear earth tones is to stay in one color family from head to toe. A brown sweater with chocolate trousers and suede boots looks rich and considered. For contrast, add cream or light denim. Olive pairs well with camel and rust. Gold jewelry warms the whole palette, and a tan or cognac bag ties it all together. For a softer effect, try a camel cardigan over a cocoa tee with ecru jeans. Brown leather loafers or riding boots finish almost any of these combinations.

Our honest take is that a few earth tone knits will carry you through more outfits than almost any other purchase this fall. They match each other, they match denim, and they look expensive even when they are not. We would start with a dark brown crewneck and a cardigan in a lighter shade, then add olive or camel later. Fold knits instead of hanging them so the shoulders stay smooth. A sweater comb takes care of small pills and keeps everything looking fresh for seasons ahead. Quality knits only get softer with time.