Confession: I shop all the time. (It’s in my job title, after all.) But can I let you in on a little secret? Fall clothing shopping is my absolute favorite, and here’s why: Fall is like the New Year’s of the fashion calendar. It’s the time of year when there’s a burst of new trends, new collections and plenty of new outfit inspiration thanks to Fashion Month. Add to that a heavy dose of all things denim and a plethora of must-have boots, and you’ve got yourself a sartorial bonanza worth celebrating. To honor the change of seasons, I pulled together a list of the top 18 items I’m hoping to add to my wardrobe this fall. From a chic cropped trench coat to an under-$100 faux-suede handbag, here’s everything on my fall must-have wishlist.
I’m a Fashion Editor. Here Are the 18 Items I’m Most Excited to Buy This Fall
Your fall shopping list awaits
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Published Aug 20, 2024
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Abby Hepworth for PureWow
1. Abercrombie & Fitch Cropped Trench Coat
Abercrombie & Fitch
I adore this fun twist on a classic trench silhouette, but what I love even more is the fact that this cropped jacket is both wind and water resistant, making it not just a cute option, but a practical one as well. It comes in three different colors—the classic beige pictured above, dark gray and forest green—and, according to reviews, the fit is just right, hitting at a super flattering point just above the hips. I also appreciate that the sleeves have a bit of a wider fit, which will make it much easier to layer thicker sweaters underneath as temperatures continue to drop.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Materials: 87 percent polyester, 17 percent cotton
2. Aritzia Effortless Pants Lo-Rise
Aritzia
I own (and love) the viral Aritzia Effortless pants in washable linen, as well as the shorts version in satin, and think it’s high time I add the OG crepe pair to my rotation. The original design has a high waist, but I’m more inclined to try out the lower rise, which reviews say fits more like a mid-rise than the underwear-peeping low rises of the early aughts. The crepe material is wrinkle resistant and machine washable for easy care, a detail this lazy editor much appreciates. The only downside? Unlike the high-rise style, this is comes in just one inseam length, 31.5 inches.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 00 to 16
- Materials: 100 percent polyester
Sam Edelman
Fall doesn’t really feel like fall without a fabulous pair of boots. This Sam Edelman design is just oh-so classic and is sure to become a staple in my fall capsule wardrobe for years to come. I’m leaning toward this stunning deep brown hue, but there are numerous other colors to choose from, including some faux-suede or faux-snakeskin options if you like a bit of texture. The heel adds 2.8 inches and while not a true block heel, is fairly thick to help take some pressure off your arches, and the inside zipper goes halfway up the shaft for a sleeker overall silhouette.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Materials: leather upper
4. Topshop Pleated Denim Maxi Skirt
Topshop
I’ve been loving the denim maxi skirt trend, but have yet to find a style I really love. Then, on a recent stroll through Nordstrom, I stumbled upon this gorgeous pleated number by Topshop. The dark indigo-wash denim feels incredibly luxe, despite the under-$100 price tag, and the pleated fit is much more flattering on my body than the classic straight-up-and-down pieces I see so often. The leg slit also helps prevent all that denim from looking too heavy. Just know, reviewers say this skirt runs small, so if you are between sizes, I recommend going with the larger of the two.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 2 to 12
- Materials: 100 percent cotton
5. JW Pei Hana Mini Faux-Suede Bag
JW Pei
The moment I spotted this JW Pei bag, I knew I had to have it. It looks so expensive but costs under $100, and the design is an ideal balance between classic and cool. It comes in four gorgeous hues—camel brown, black, winter white and forest green—all of which come with a removable crossbody strap for versatile wear. P.S. There is a medium size version ($129) as well if you’re looking for something that can function as a work tote.
FAST FACTS
- Materials: faux suede
6. Exquise Tobie Button-Front Pleated Dress
Exquise
Who doesn’t love a good shirtdress? This striped design has a super-flattering pleated bodice that helps create an hourglass figure, and the exaggerated sleeves are comfortable and chic. The button front is also fully functional so you can unbutton the bottom to wear this as a long tunic top, or unbutton the whole thing to style it as a short-sleeve jacket of sorts. Oh, and did I mention there are pockets, too? Score!
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to 3X, also Petite
- Materials: cotton/polyester/elastane blend
7. Blue Nile Heart-Tag Bracelet
Blue Nile
Heart-adorned jewelry has been having a major comeback this year, and while I do love all the funky abstract pieces, as well as the kitchy Keeley Jones-approved designs, I’ll definitely get more use out a classic bracelet like this gorgeous sterling silver number. You can also have the heart engraved with something special—your initials, a lucky number, your workout mantra—to make it uniquely yours.
FAST FACTS
- Length: 8 inches
- Materials: sterling silver
Madewell
As a millennial, I’m very wary of the rising vest trend, but I’m willing to give it a go with this Madewell version. With spaghetti straps and a longer cut, this top resembles an actual shirt more than a suit vest, and I like that the bottom naturally flares out to better accommodate wider hips. Reviewers do note that this style runs small, so you may want to consider sizing up one, especially if you have a bigger bust.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 00 to 16
- Materials: 48 percent Tencel Lyocell, 33 percent cotton, 19 percent linen
9. Abercrombie & Fitch Mid-Rise Barrel Jeans
Abercrombie & Fitch
Barrel jeans are another trend I have some trepidation about, but this A&F pair has me feeling hopeful. High-rise versions often feel like they have a shape that’s far too exaggerated, but this mid-rise style is still right on trend without going full cartoon cowboy. And I like the highly visible side seams to add interest and structure. They’re currently available in three washes, the medium blue above, a lighter blue wash and a black wash, all of which also come in three inseam lengths. For under 100 bucks, these jeans make it easy to dip a toe into a polarizing trend.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 24 to 34
- Inseam Length: short, regular or long
- Materials: 100 percent cotton
Dolce Vita
I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect pair of red shoes to add to my wardrobe for fall, and I think this Dolce Vita pair may be just the ticket. The pointed toe will look great with both wide-leg pants and midi skirts, and I love the adjustable slingback silhouette which will hopefully prevent blisters from forming at my heels. The two additional straps across the front feel mostly decorative, but that middle strap is adjustable and can definitely help those with a narrower front-foot feel more secure while walking. P.S. They also come in six other colors if you’re not feeling the red.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 13
- Materials: leather upper
11. Open Edit Funnel Neck Bodysuit
Open Edit
Bodysuits are a great way to circumvent having to tuck and retuck (and retuck again) shirts into pants and skirts all day long. This mock-neck design is simple, elegant and comes in four easy-to-wear colors that will go beautifully with just about everything in my closet. The back has a thong fit, as well, to prevent unwanted panty lines. Reviewers say the material is super soft, comfortable and supportive, and that the bodysuit fits true to size.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Materials: 75 percent Nylon, 25 percent spandex
12. Farm Rio Mixed Cashew Knot Mixi Dress
Farm Rio
I spent three weeks thinking about this dress before I finally made the leap and bought it. The pattern is giving major Diane von Furstenberg vibes, and the viscose material is oh-so comfortable. The low V neckline can be adjusted with a clip to become more bra-friendly and show less cleavage. The colorblocking is also wonderfully flattering, as is the faux knot design at the waist for an elegant finishing touch.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Materials: 100 percent viscose
13. Gola x Anthropologie Stadium Sneakers
Gola x Anthropologie
I’ve been on the fence for some time now about whether to cave to the Adidas Samba craze, but instead I think I’ll opt for this Gola x Anthropologie sneaker, which has all the same retro vibes, but with a bit more personality and pizazz. The black-and-white design can be worn with everything, and I adore the green ribbon shoelaces for an unexpected, yet still majorly wearable, twist. And if I’m feeling more traditional, I can just swap them out for a classic white cotton shoelace instead.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Materials: leather upper, microfiber insole, rubber sole
J.Crew
Metallics have been a growing trend in 2024, especially in NYC, which gives me the perfect excuse to add this silver shoulder bag to my collection. It is the ideal size for everyday use and can fit a surprising amount of stuff—phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, small sunscreen, lip balm, packet of tissues, etc.—without looking overly large. The simple, ladylike design helps to balance the festive vibes of the silver leather, and I like the way the gold hardware really pops on the top flap. The shoulder strap is also adjustable should you prefer to wear it shorter or longer.
FAST FACTS
- Materials: Italian leather
En Saison
Fall weather can be tricky—one day it’s a crisp 55 degrees, the next it’s 75 and humid—which is why I always like to have a few versatile midi dresses in my closet. This bow-adorned midi can be layered under a sweater or lightweight jacket with boots on chillier afternoons, but doesn’t look too summery when worn with just flats or loafers thanks to the flattering brown hue. The back of the bodice is also smocked to better fit different bust sizes, and there’s a hidden zipper at the side to make it easy to pull on and off. Add to that double adjustable straps and you’ve got yourself a chic must-have addition to any autumn wardrobe.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to L
- Materials: 100 percent polyester
Tuckernuck
Tuckernuck is a great place to find basics that don’t feel basic, just like this ultra-flattering white cotton blouse. The three-quarter-length sleeves have the same vibe as a rolled-up sleeve without any of the fuss, and the stand collar is giving “yes, chef” in all the best ways. The addition of pearlescent buttons at the cuffs and collar add a luxurious touch as well. Plus, it comes in six classic color options. Reviewers do suggest this blouse runs a bit large, so take that into consideration when deciding which size to order.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XXXL
- Materials: 97 percent cotton, 3 percent spandex
Free People
I’m calling it now: Quilted jackets will be everywhere come October/November. This Free People version has been around for a few years now, with the brand releasing new colors every autumn, so you can bet it’s a great investment piece to add to your outerwear rotation. Reviewers say the material is lightweight but warm, and the fit is roomy enough to layer over thicker sweaters without being too oversized. It’s also machine washable for easy care. The only downside may be the open-front design, but I plan to just drape a wide scarf around my neck should I want some extra warmth and coverage on those chilly autumn evenings.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Materials: 91 percent cotton, 9 percent rayon
Seniq
I’m always looking for cool new hiking brands to test, and Seniq has been popping up left and right on my Instagram feed. The designs straddle the line between fashion and function beautifully, like these cool hiking cargo pants. I love the highly adjustable waistband and flattering cut, and the sleek silhouette means I can wear these for a weekend jaunt around NYC without feeling totally out of place. They’re also available in black, brown and an icy blue hue, all done in a soft, stretchy material that’s wrinkle and water resistant.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Materials: 90 percent Nylon, 10 percent spandex
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