Forget pumpkin spice. What you really need to feel cozy and ready for the season is layers. And boots. And all the real clothes that signal fall. As much as I love the easy-breeziness of summer style, fall is when we have an opportunity to get truly dressed.
For some of us, that’s going to mean shopping, and updating our wardrobes for the season ahead. But that can be overwhelming. What do we buy? Do we just start over and spring for an entirely new fall wardrobe? No. Even if you wanted to, as your fashion friend, I wouldn’t let you. :)
All you really need to update your wardrobe for a season are a few key pieces. I always recommend starting with accessories and jackets, because they can be combined with everything you already own for a quick fall refresh.
This is not meant to be a must-have list. These are just items that I think are wearable and versatile updates to consider for fall.
Here, 12 things to (consider) buying for fall, and why.
As always, you can find everything in this video right here in my catalog.
The Leather Dress
Hear me out. I know I started with a polarizing one, but a leather dress (all of these are faux) is surprisingly comfortable and wearable and also so so chic. A shirtdress is one of my favorite options because it combines a classic shape with an unexpected fabric. And you don’t just have to go with black leather either. There are versions in every shade for every wardrobe.
The Vest
The vest is the sleeveless top of the season, and works as well with jeans and leather as it does in part of a set or suit. While the halter style vest tops make a great choice for an office party, the most versatile vests feature a full back and can be dressed up or down.
The Cinched Waist Jacket
The slouchy blazer has reigned supreme for the last few years, and it’s not going anywhere, but this season, we’re seeing blazers with a bit more waist definition, a welcome change for those of us who struggled with the baggy trend.
The Shearling Jacket
I’ve already discussed these extensively, but I can’t get enough of the cozy-chic style that is one of the key outerwear trends of the season. Choose a statement or timeless style. There’s an option for everyone.
The Printed Cardigan
A fun statement piece that can effortlessly add interest to your wardrobe basics, there’s a printed cardigan for every personal style and at every length.
The Striped Sweater
Stripes have the rare advantage of being modern and classic at the same time, so think of a striped sweater as your cold-weather answer to the iconic mariniere tee.
The Denim Top
The versatility of jeans, but in a top, an updated denim or chambray shirt will give you that head to toe denim look that’s a key trend, but also pairs well with all of your other bottoms. If you have the denim shirt box checked, consider a vest or a blazer.
The Sweaterdress
The coziness of a sweater in a one-and-done outfit, there truly is a sweaterdress for every body and every budget this season.
The Cropped Shirt or Jacket
These waist-defining styles are super flattering and work equally well with dresses and pants.
The Slingback
Until cooler temps make a completely closed shoe a necessity, these are the shoes I’ll be wearing on repeat. An easy update to a pump, and a chic one.
The Edgy Flat
A fun, personality-filled flat is both chic and practical, and that can be a hard combination to find.
Nada Manley says
Thanks Kath! I have a video coming up on Tuesday about this! Let me know what you think!
Kath says
Hi Nada I was wondering if you have a video about “Modern classics”? You referred to it in one of your videos about frumpiness. If there isn’t one it would be good to be taught!