Fall Fabrics You Need to Know: Dressing for Midwest Autumn Weather

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, autumn in the Midwest presents the perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe. But as any Midwesterner knows, the fall weather can be unpredictable, shifting from cool mornings to warm afternoons and back to chilly evenings. Let me give you some ideas on how to stay cozy and comfortable throughout the day, and how to make thoughtful, sustainable choices that keep you looking your best. Let’s embrace the beauty of autumn with clothing that’s functional, stylish, and environmentally friendly.

Quick takes

Layer like a pro: Cotton near your skin for breathability, wool for warmth, and fleece for insulation—combine these materials to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Transition outfits are key: A flannel shirt, a light sweater, or a wool scarf can make all the difference in unpredictable autumn weather.
Versatile wardrobe staples: Invest in a few high-quality, multi-purpose pieces to get through fall in style.
Keep sustainability in mind: Choose eco-friendly options like organic cotton, ethically sourced wool, and recycled fleece.

Best materials for autumn weather in the Midwest

Choosing the right materials for autumn is key to staying comfortable in the Midwest’s unpredictable weather. I list the best fabrics for fall below, arranged by their practicality for layering, warmth, and versatility.

Materials table of contents

Wool
Cotton
Synthetic Blends
Denim
Fleece
Cashmere
Flannel
Suede

Appropriateness: Wool is a top choice for fall due to its ability to keep you warm while still allowing your body to breathe. It’s ideal for cool mornings and evenings but won’t make you overheat as temperatures rise, whether it’s in your sweaters, scarves, or outerwear.

Why it’s popular: Wool is naturally insulating, moisture-wicking, and durable. It can also be dressed up or down, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.

How it’s made: Wool is sheared from sheep, cleaned, and spun into yarn. Merino wool, a softer and finer version, comes from a specific breed of sheep and is less itchy.

Sustainability: Wool is a renewable resource that’s biodegradable. Opt for ethically sourced wool, such as RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) certified, to ensure higher animal welfare standards.

Best use: Sweaters, coats, scarves, and hats.

Downside: Some people find wool itchy, though merino wool is softer. Wool can also shrink if not cared for properly.

Care: Hand wash or use a wool-specific detergent on a gentle cycle. Lay flat to dry to prevent shrinking.

Appropriateness: Cotton is lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for layering during the warmer parts of fall. It’s versatile enough to pair with heavier materials when the temperatures drop.

Why it’s popular: Cotton is soft, easy to care for, and comfortable for all-day wear. Its breathability makes it perfect for fluctuating temperatures.

When to wear it: Cotton is best used as a base layer on days that warm up in the afternoon after a cool morning.

How it’s made: Cotton is harvested from the cotton plant, spun into fibers, and woven into fabric. Organic cotton is produced without pesticides, making it a more eco-friendly option.

Sustainability: Conventional cotton has a high environmental impact, especially in terms of water usage. Opt for organic cotton for a more sustainable choice.

Best use: T-shirts, long sleeves, button-downs, and light sweaters.

Downside: Cotton is not very insulating, so it may not keep you warm on cold days without additional layers.

Care: Machine wash in cold water to avoid shrinking. Tumble dry on low or air dry for longer-lasting wear.

Appropriateness: Synthetic blends, like polyester or acrylic mixed with natural fibers, add stretch, durability, and moisture resistance, making them practical for active days or as part of outer layers.

Why it’s popular: Synthetic blends offer a balance of warmth, moisture-wicking properties, and durability. These blends often provide similar warmth to natural fibers at a lower cost.

When to wear it: Synthetic blends are excellent for active outdoor activities or as outerwear when conditions are damp or windy.

How it’s made: Synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon are chemically produced, often blended with natural fibers like cotton or wool for added performance.

Sustainability: Synthetics are not biodegradable, but recycled polyester and nylon blends reduce environmental impact. Be mindful of microplastics released during washing.

Best use: Fleece jackets, outerwear, and activewear.

Downside: Synthetic blends can trap heat and moisture, leading to discomfort in fluctuating temperatures. They also contribute to microplastic pollution.

Care: Machine wash in cold water. Air dry or tumble dry on low to avoid static and excessive wear.

Appropriateness: Denim is sturdy, durable, and breathable, making it a practical choice for casual fall wear. While not highly insulating, it’s a great option for transitional days.

Why it’s popular: Denim is timeless and versatile, pairing well with various fabrics and styles. It’s easy to dress up or down, depending on the occasion.

When to wear it: Denim works best on mild to cool fall days, especially when layered with warmer materials like wool or flannel.

How it’s made: Denim is a cotton-based fabric, woven tightly to create its signature rugged texture. Some denim includes a small percentage of elastane for stretch.

Sustainability: Denim production can be resource-intensive, requiring large amounts of water and chemicals. Opt for sustainably produced or recycled denim to minimize environmental impact.

Best use: Jeans, denim jackets, skirts.

Downside: Denim isn’t great for very cold weather unless heavily layered, and it can take a long time to dry if wet.

Care: Wash denim sparingly to preserve its color and durability. Cold wash inside-out and air dry to prevent shrinkage.

Appropriateness: Fleece is ideal for outdoor activities or chilly evenings, providing warmth without the bulk. Its quick-drying properties make it a great outer layer.

Why it’s popular: Fleece is lightweight, durable, and insulating, offering plenty of warmth without the weight of heavier fabrics.

When to wear it: Fleece works well for cooler, dry days when you need insulation but don’t want to wear heavy wool or coats.

How it’s made: Fleece is typically made from polyester, though recycled polyester fleece, made from plastic bottles, is a more eco-friendly option.

Sustainability: Synthetic fleece is not biodegradable, but recycled fleece reduces plastic waste. However, microplastics can be released during washing.

Best use: Jackets, pullovers, outdoor gear.

Downside: It can trap moisture, making you overheat if worn in warmer conditions, and contributes to microplastic pollution when washed.

Care: Machine wash in cold water. Hang dry or tumble dry on low to reduce static and microplastic release.

Appropriateness: Cashmere is perfect for autumn days when you want warmth without bulk. Its softness and elegance make it ideal for both casual and formal outfits.

Why it’s popular: Known for its luxury and softness, cashmere provides warmth while remaining lightweight. It’s a highly sought-after material for fall fashion.

When to wear it: Cashmere is great for cooler days when you want warmth without the heaviness of wool. It’s ideal for light sweaters and layering pieces.

How it’s made: Cashmere is harvested from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, which is spun into fine yarns.

Sustainability: Cashmere production can have a high environmental impact due to overgrazing and resource depletion. Look for sustainably sourced or recycled cashmere.

Best use: Sweaters, cardigans, scarves.

Downside: Cashmere is delicate and expensive, requiring careful washing and handling.

Care: Hand wash in cold water or dry clean. Lay flat to dry and store folded to prevent stretching.

Appropriateness: Flannel is a staple for casual autumn days, offering a good balance of warmth and breathability. It’s great for layering over base layers or pairing with jeans for a laid-back look.

Why it’s popular: Flannel is soft, cozy, and warm, making it perfect for fall. It’s ideal for layering without feeling too bulky.

When to wear it: Flannel is great for brisk, dry days and makes for an excellent outer layer when combined with lighter base layers.

How it’s made: Flannel is usually made from brushed cotton or wool, giving it a soft, fuzzy texture. It’s tightly woven for warmth and durability.

Sustainability: Flannel made from organic cotton or wool is more sustainable. Regular cotton flannel can have a high environmental impact due to water and pesticide use.

Best use: Shirts, pajamas, scarves.

Downside: Flannel can sometimes feel too warm for fluctuating temperatures, and it may pill over time with frequent wear.

Care: Machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Hang dry to avoid shrinkage and preserve the soft texture.

Appropriateness: Suede is a rich, textured material that adds a touch of luxury to any autumn wardrobe. It’s great for accessories like boots or jackets that bring warmth and style to fall outfits.

Why it’s popular: Suede offers a sophisticated look that’s soft to the touch, perfect for elevating your fall fashion with its rich texture and warmth.

When to wear it: Suede works best on dry, cool days. It’s not recommended for rainy or damp conditions without weather-proofing.

How it’s made: Suede is made from the underside of animal hides, creating a soft and napped texture.

Sustainability: Suede, being an animal product, has ethical and environmental concerns, including resource use. Opt for responsibly sourced or faux suede alternatives.

Best use: Jackets, boots, and accessories like bags and belts.

Downside: Suede is difficult to care for, prone to staining, and not water-resistant, which limits its use in wetter autumn weather.

Care: Use a suede brush and weather-proofing spray to maintain texture and prevent stains. Avoid wearing suede in wet conditions.

Staying comfortable between Summer and Fall

Fall weather in the Midwest can feel like a balancing act. Mornings are chilly, afternoons warm, and evenings are brisk again. Here’s one way I tackle this tricky transition from summer to fall:

Morning: Start with a breathable cotton or lightweight wool base layer. Add a flannel shirt or a light wool sweater.
Midday: As temperatures rise, remove your flannel or sweater.
Evening: Keep a cozy jacket or wool coat handy for the cooler evenings, in case putting your flannel or sweater back on isn’t enough to hold back the chill.

Some Girl Friday Fall outfit ideas

Flannel shirt and jeans

Pair a soft flannel shirt with your favorite jeans and ankle boots for a casual look that’s perfect for running errands or meeting friends.

Wool sweater and skirt

Woman wearing cool beige oversize sweater over warm tan skirt walking through downtown

Woman wearing off white button up under neutral beige v-neck sweater over navy blue skirt

This outfit idea pairs a lightweight wool sweater, sometimes over a button-up shirt with collar exposed, with a midi skirt and tights, perfect for a dressier occasion or casual office wear.

Denim jacket and fleece leggings

A denim jacket layered over a simple t-shirt and paired with fleece-lined leggings is a great combo for outdoor activities.

Poncho and boots

Woman wearing maroon poncho, jeans, and boots standing with neutral look on a country lane in the fall

Woman wearing brown poncho and blue jeans leaning on a post fence in the countryside.

Stay cozy with a wool poncho layered over a long-sleeved shirt and paired with skinny jeans and boots.

Wool coat and scarf

A wool coat over a turtleneck and skinny jeans, paired with a wool scarf and gloves, is the perfect outfit for the coldest fall days.

Fall clothing FAQs

Start with a breathable base layer like cotton, add a mid-layer like flannel or wool, and finish with a warmer outer layer such as a coat or jacket.

Yes, wool is biodegradable and renewable, but you should look for ethically sourced options like RWS-certified wool to ensure animal welfare standards are met.

Opt for a lightweight fleece and layer it over a moisture-wicking fabric like wool or cotton. This will help manage body heat better.

Ankle boots or tall leather boots are great for fall. Choose waterproof materials if you expect rain or muddy conditions.

Always wash wool by hand or on a gentle cycle using cold water. Lay flat to dry to avoid shrinkage.

Yes! Pair a midi skirt with tights and boots for warmth. Add a sweater or jacket for chilly mornings and evenings.

A waterproof jacket or trench coat is essential for rainy days. Pair it with waterproof boots and layer appropriately underneath.

You can extend the use of your summer clothes by layering them with warmer pieces, such as adding a wool sweater over a summer dress or wearing a light jacket with a t-shirt.

Let’s wrap it up…

Fall weather in the Midwest requires a careful balance of comfort, warmth, and style. By choosing sustainable materials like wool, cotton, and fleece, you can stay cozy while also making environmentally conscious choices. Whether you’re dressing for a crisp morning, a warm afternoon, or a chilly evening, the right outfit will keep you feeling confident and comfortable all day. So, start building your autumn wardrobe today, and enjoy all the beauty this season has to offer!

Fresh Girl Friday