Ahem, Walmart Just Dropped the Cutest Preppy Fall Collection

Time to prep for Autumn

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I hardly ever shop for myself, but with fall on the horizon, I think it’s about time that changes. Sure, Walmart is my store of choice for groceries and electronics, but it has quietly become a force in the fashion industry as well. (Did you see the spring/summer campaign featuring Minka Kelly?) In fact, the company has just dropped its new Free Assembly collection for fall, where you can stock up on a plethora of jeans, miniskirts and varsity jackets. After spending hours browsing the retailer’s website, I’ve rounded up 11 must-have pieces that will automatically upgrade your fall capsule wardrobe—without breaking your budget. 

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Made of 100 percent cotton, this crisp button-down is the ultimate fall essential. Besides its breathable material and versatility, it has great layering potential, as you can don it under a blazer or over a sweater on chillier days. It may, however, run big, as one customer writes, "I was able to size down from a usual small to an extra small and have PLENTY of room. If you want it as a shirt or a more fitted shacket, you can size down." Still totally worth it, IMO.

Wanna add some edgy flair to your preppy look? Consider these studded shoes your call to action. You get the traditional look of a classic loafer, but the added hardware gives it some extra bling that stands out in a crowd. As far as comfort goes, per the brand, this shoe comes with a padded sockliner and a flexible outsole that doesn't require that much of a break-in time, and buyers describe them as being comfortable with plenty of room in the toe box.

A wool coat is the quintessential fall and winter staple, and this one is perfect for throwing over a sweater and a pair of jeans. It features a spread collar with long sleeves and front pockets that will hold your smaller essentials. Plus, the blend of polyester and wool makes it supremely warm and cozy for the season. Oh, and it's only $59, giving you a look that's sophisticated and affordable.

Featuring a vintage design that looks like it’s straight from the 1980s, these jeans stand out for their wide-leg design and comfort. Per the brand, they’re made with 99 percent cotton and one percent spandex, and buyers can’t get enough of their fit and comfort. “Not overly stretchy, so it holds its shape!! Also appreciate the long lengths offered,” writes one, though some say these jeans actually run small, which means you may want to consider sizing up.

Speaking of pieces that look more expensive than their price tag, allow me to present this sleek single-breasted blazer, which has a tailored shape, a practical button in the front and flap pockets. Crafted from BCI cotton and spandex, it will keep you warm and cozy during chilly fall mornings, but is still lightweight enough that you won't sweat through it, should the afternoon highs peak into the 80s (or beyond, depending on where you live). 

Need a pleated mini skirt to go along with your blazer (or just about any other top in your closet), look no further than this checkered beauty, which is made with 98 percent cotton and two percent spandex, giving you plenty of warmth for the chillier temps ahead. “Really nice material; it's thick and holds its shape,” raves one shopper, who also notes that the skirt runs large, so you may want to consider sizing down for the best fit.

Puff sleeve dresses are always a good idea for fall, and this under $35 frock is one you won’t have to think twice about. It’s purportedly soft, and buyers love how it flatters your figure. One such buyer writes, “Another great dress from Free Assembly. It's 100 percent cotton, gorgeous chocolate brown color and a classic fit. I often size down from my usual medium to a small, and that worked here.” Again, sizing down might be the key here to achieving a perfect fit.

These barrel jeans check the style and comfort box with their oversized construction and comfy blend of cotton, polyester and viscose. A versatile piece that can be paired with over-the-knee boots, chunky sneakers and more, they feature a classic five-pocket design and are machine-washable with no reported shrinking from customers. Does it get any better than that? I don’t think so.

You’ll definitely check the dark academia vibe with this striped puff-sleeve top, which works for the office and a girls' night out. “I cannot say enough about how good these shirts are,” exclaims one reviewer who gave it 5 stars, adding, “The quality is incredible and the fit is flattering.” BRB, adding to my cart right now.

A striped bubble dress is the key to looking like you stepped on the set of My Oxford Year. Made from 100 percent cotton, everything from its tie-waist design to its pleated skirt makes it the ultimate statement piece, and you can rock with a wide range of boots, flats and pumps.

Take it from me—a stylish, versatile cardigan goes a long way. You can layer it over a tank top or button-up shirt on warmer fall days, but then wear it underneath a coat or jacket on days where it’s cooler. Plus, you can dress it up or down depending on what bottoms you choose, giving you lots of styling options to play with.


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Associate Commerce Strategist

  • Covers all things commerce and entertainment
  • Has over a decade of editorial experience in both fashion and entertainment, and was previously with ONE37pm before joining the PureWow team in March 2024
  • Studied journalism and marketing at Columbus State University in Georgia

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