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 20 items I’m hoping to add to my wardrobe this fall. From a chic plaid barn jacket to an under-$100 pair of jeans that could easily pass as vintage, here’s everything on my fall must-have wishlist.
I’m a Fashion Editor. Here Are the 20 Items I’m Most Excited to Buy This Fall
Your fall shopping list awaits
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1. Old Navy Button-Down Ruffle Shirt
Old Navy
I first spotted this adorable ruffle-collar blouse on influencer Sarah Morales and immediately assumed it must be Sézane. Imagine my surprise when I learned it was actually Old Navy and that it costs less than 40 bucks? This adorable button-up also comes in solid white and black, as well as a red plaid, but it’s the brown version above that I think will be most versatile for fall. It’s made of 100 percent cotton and it reportedly wonderfully light, making it an easy layering piece, too.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to 4X, also petite and tall
- Materials: 100 percent cotton
2. Melie Bianco Shoulder Bag
Melie Bianco
This buckled shoulder bag is giving major vintage Gucci vibes but for a fraction of the cost. It’s made of a supple faux leather that’s soft to the touch but that still holds its structure super well to maintain that elegant A shape. And if you want to switch things up, it also comes with a longer adjustable crossbody strap. There’s also a removable zippered pouch to safely stow smaller items so they don’t get lost in the mix. Now all I need to decide is which color to get: cherry red, espresso brown or classic black.
FAST FACTS
- Size: 6.75” H x 13” W x 4.25” D
- Materials: faux leather
3. Levi’s 501 Curve Jeans
Levi’s
I’ve had a bit of an up-and-down relationship with Levi’s jeans—some styles fit like a dream while others just can’t seem to accommodate both my waist and my hips, making sizing feel impossible. But after trying on the new 501 Curve cut I can confidently say I’m fully in love. They have the same vintage vibes and classic styling as the OG 501s, but have been redesigned in the waist and hips to better fit those of us with curvier figures. I will note, however, that this style runs small. I can wear anything between a 28 and a 32 in Levi’s and found the 31 to be most comfortable here. So be sure to double check that size chart before ordering.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 23 to 34
- Inseam Lengths: 28 to 34
- Materials: 99 percent cotton, 1 percent lycra
Capes and capelettes first started popping up last fall, but this year they’re only more popular. This COS design is super versatile and can layer over just about anything thanks to the clever sleeve design. There are buttons on the bottom of each “cuff” to create a clear sleeve if you like, or you can leave them undone to pull this cape over a thicker sweater or coat with ease. P.S. This design comes in a light beige, in addition to the mocha brown above.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS/S to M/L
- Materials: 78 percent organic cotton, 22 percent recycled polyamide
Mark my words, green is going to overtake burgundy as *the* color of the season this fall, and the most popular shades of all will be chartreuse and peridot. Every fall/winter I invest in a new cashmere knit to see me through the season in peak comfort, so this year I plan to spice up my sweater collection with this vibrant J.Crew number (which, of course, comes in tons of other more subtle shades too). J.Crew cashmere is just so plush and lovely, and the cut of this particular pullover checks all my boxes—slightly loose in the body, not too long with ribbed detailing along the collar, hem and cuffs.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXXS to 3X
- Materials: 100 percent cashmere
6. Sam Edelman Sylvia Boots
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 chocolatey brown suede, but there are several colors to choose from, including a stunning olive faux-snakeskin 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
7. Maeve Lace-Trim Mini Slip Skirt
Maeve
I recently acquired this miniskirt in a major haul of Maeve by Anthropologie must-haves, but it’s proving to be more of a go-to favorite than I would have anticipated. Miniskirts are definitely a major trend for fall 2025, but I love that this one is light enough to be worn through the end of of summer. And the colors make it easy to pair with winter staples too (alongside a pair of thick tights, of course). I sized up to ensure this mini wasn’t too tight around my hips, but I don’t actually think it was necessary as many other reviewers say they found this skirt fit true to size. That said, it does come in petite lengths for the 5’2”-and-under crew or anyone on the hunt for an extra-mini mini.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XL, also petite
- Materials: 100 percent viscose
8. Lands’ End Cropped Pintuck Shirt
Lands’ End
Lands’ End lowkey has tons of incredible cute wardrobe staples—the dress selection in particular is chock-full of surprise hits—but for me it’s this white button-up that’s currently sitting at the top of my wishlist. The pleating down the front gives it a tuxedo shirt vibe, but the cropped cut lends a more casual feel so I won’t feel out of place wearing this top with jeans or track pants. That said, it’s not so cropped that it can’t be tucked into a high-waist bottom. The fact that it’s made of 100-percent breathable cotton is just the icing on the top of the very stylish cake.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to 3X
- Materials: 100 percent cotton
9. Tuckernuck Stripe Travis Rugby Dress
Tuckernuck
Rugby shirts are about to be everywhere, but rather than choose from the hundreds of classic striped pullovers out there, I’ve got my eyes on this comfy sweater dress iteration. While there are other colors available, it’s the mix of trendy burgundy and even trendier ballerina pink that’s grabbed my heart. Stretchy cuffs allow you to push the sleeves up for a 3/4-length if you like, and the sturdy collar gives and old-school classic vibe I love. Add to that pockets and a super-soft cotton material and you’ve got yourself a fall favorite in the making for sure.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XXXL
- Materials: 100 percent cotton
10. Abercrombie & Fitch Sloane Wide-Leg Pants
Abercrombie & Fitch
I already own (and love) the beloved A&F Sloane pants in washable navy, as well as the low-rise version in white, so I can already guarantee I’ll get plenty of use out of this chic mini plaid version. They come in three different inseam lengths—short, regular and long (some colors are also available in extra short)—so gals of all heights can feel confident wearing these straight out of the box, no tailoring needed. And just like all of Abercomrbie’s pant styles, there is a Classic and a Curve version, which is desinged specifically for those with a smaller waist and wider hips. The overall fit is just so comfortable. The wide waistband sits nicely just above my hips and the fabric is lightweight, but not so breezy that I can’t also sport these trousers come winter. I told you, there’s a reason I already own multiples...
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 23 to 38
- Materials: 76 percent polyester, 22 percent viscose, 2 percent elastane
11. JW PEI Nala Tote Bag
JW PEI
Woven leather totes aren’t just a summer staple, and this JW PEI is the proof. The gorgeous olive green hue is just as wearable as classic black or brown, but adds just a little touch of something extra. That said, the style does come in a range of different neutrals, black and brown included. The shape is so elegant, and has ample room for a laptop, water bottle, book and all your daily essentials. Hard to believe it costs less than $150.
FAST FACTS
- Size: 16.93” W x 9.96” H x 4.33” D
- Materials: faux leather
12. Franco Sarto Carolyn Low Tassel Loafers
Franco Sarto
No fall wardrobe is complete without a pair of loafers, but rather than reach for my old lug-sole pair from a few years back I’ve upgrading to a patent leather pair with festive tassels for 2025. The low-profile sole feels more modern, like a loafer version of the uber-trendy low-profile sneakers I’ve been seeing everywhere. According to reviews, they’re incredibly comfortable with little to no break-in period required. They also come in wide widths should you want extra room in the toe box.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Widths: medium and wide
- Materials: faux leather
13. Topshop Knit Stripe Cardigan and Scarf
Topshop
Does this cardigan and matching knit scarf feel perhaps a bit too on the nose for achieving the ideal French woman wardrobe? Maybe, but that won’t stop me from pairing it with some vintage jeans and a basket bag for a trip to the farmers’ market anyway (though I draw the line at adding a beret to the mix). The scarf is fully separate from the sweater itself, giving you lots of different styling options to play around with. And the varying sizes of stripe, which comes in either red or black, make the pattern look far more expensive than its true price tag.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to L
- Materials: 94 percent polyester, 6 percent wool
14. Everlane The Denim Popover Dress
Everlane
Fall is denim’s time to shine—everyone is on the hunt for a perfect new pair of jeans and jean jackets offer just the right amount of warmth for crisp autumn afternoons. But this year the fabric is truly taking over with denim pieces of all kinds blowing up my Instagram feed. The indigo wash of this easy popover dress feels more appropriate for the colder months of the year, and will go great with some knee-high boots and a flannel shirt jacket. But the loose silhouette and shorter hem length mean I won’t overheat in those early autumn days when temperatures can still be pretty warm—a true win-win situation.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS ton XXL
- Materials: 100 percent cotton
15. LOFT Plaid Barn Jacket
LOFT
Barn jackets are still reigning supreme as the It outerwear of the season. While forest green and beige versions are definitely the most classic options, I’m leaning more towards this plaid cutie as a way to stand out from the pack. Snaps and a zipper down the front mean gusts of wind won’t seep through, and the heavy cotton material is just the right weight for late autumn. And that contrasting corduroy collar! It’s just such a great way to ground the light plaid pattern. Reviewers say this jacket runs a smidge big, but if you plan to layer chunkier knits underneath, I still recommend getting your usual size.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XXL
- Materials: 100 percent cotton for the body; 78 percent cotton, 20 percent modal, 2 percent spandex for the collar
16. J.Crew Smocked Midi Dress
J.Crew
I’m a sucker for a versatile midi dress and this J.Crew number is truly one of the best I’ve come across lately. The smocked bodice hugs my curves without feeling constrictive, and the length is ideal for pairing with both flats and boots. Though the straps are fairly wide, the straight-across neckline may or may not work with your usual everyday, but will definitely accommodate a classic strapless bra. The straps are also adjustable with hidden buttons in the back. While others may be drawn to the black, navy or even cheetah print color options, for me the only way to go is cherry red.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to 3X
- Materials: 100 percent viscose
17. Cider Stand Collar Top
Cider
Prepare to start seeing more asymmetrical silhouettes this fall and winter, as it was a major trend on the F/W 25 runways last September. For me, I’ll be dipping a toe with this affordable yet extremely luxe-looking top from Cider which features asymmetrical draping along the neckline and pulled pleating at the waist. That tie on the side is adjustable to a degree, but the top itself pulls on with a hidden zipper in back. It’c currently available in pistachio green (above), pale pink, burgundy, baby blue and dark brown. Just be sure to double check the size chart before ordering, as there’s really no stretch to the fabric.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 2 to 10
- Materials: 100 percent polyester
18. Quince Italian Wool Oversized Blazer
Quince
Another super-classic fall wardrobe staple? The oversize wool blazer. This single-breasted version from Quince has buttons on the cuffs, a welt breast pocket, notched lapels and practical flap pockets for your hands. There’s a hidden interior chest pocket as well for anything that needs safe keeping close to your heart. And that wool-blend material is guaranteed to keep you cozy and warm on even the chilliest fall mornings. I plan to layer this beauty over everything, from jeans and a button-up shirt to cashmere sweaters and silk slip skirts.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Materials: 55 percent recycled Italian wool, 35 percent recycled polyester, 5 percent recycled nylon, 5 percent other fibers
19. Marie Oliver Greta Dress
Marie Oliver
I have not been able to shake this flouncy minidress from my mind ever since first spotting it a few weeks ago. The cut is both flattering and comfortable—those puff sleeves are divine!—and I love the slit V neck to help break up the oversize shape. But what really made me fall head over heels in love is the print. The combination of creamy white with olive green and contrasting yellow stitching is so unexpected, but works equally well for both summer and fall. That means I can start wearing this beauty ASAP, even before that deliciously crisp autumn weather kicks in.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Materials: 100 percent cotton
20. Mirchi by Kim Blue Lays Bag
Mirchi by Kim
Sometimes the maximalist in me just can’t help but indulge in something that’s not exactly practical but is incredibly fun. Case in point this Lays potato chip bag from Mirchi, which I stumbled upon on Instagram and then did not stop thinking about for weeks afterward. The stunning beaded design is by an Indian brand (hence the masala flavor chips) and is handmade with more than 50 hours of work put into each iteration. It’s about the size of a real bag of chips, meaning it has room for my phone, card case, lip balm and keys, but little else. Yes, it may be a splurge, but there’s exactly zero chance I won’t get compliments and comments up the wazoo every time I pull this out of my closet this fall.
FAST FACTS
- Materials: mixed beads on polyester satin
