I’ll admit it. I hold onto summer with a white knuckle death grip until October 1. Keep your PSLs and pumpkin patches until their rightful time in the sun, thankyouverymuch. That said, fall outfits are some of my absolute favorites. The fabrics are cozy, jeans make a triumphant return and statement shackets abound! It’s not too cold to look cute and layering lets you create multiple looks with just a few pieces.
While I’m always interested in trends, I’m also all about easy-to-wear pieces that I want to reach for over and over. From the perfect plaid flannel to bold cardigan dusters that turn any T-shirt and jeans into an unforgettable look, getting dressed doesn’t have to be complicated.
With temperatures dropping, you might be tempted to wear leggings and oversize sweaters daily (okay, that’s not going to change) but these pieces will easily help create your new favorite fall outfits. Add a great pair of boots, or swap in a new accessory and you’ll be ready to take on this new season.
Here are some pieces to inspire all your fall outfits.
Z Supply
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$155
A cozy jacket that multitasks just as hard as you do! I recently bought this piece for Motherly’s team retreat in Utah and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. (It also performed fabulously as a pillow and security blanket through a red eye flight and 9 hours of being held captive at JFK airport.) Wear it sherpa side out for a sporty look that’s perfect for fall hikes or swap to the black quilted side for a more polished look.
Quince
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$69.90
My favorite $50 cashmere sweater’s trendy little sister, the Mongolian Shrunken Cashmere Sweatshirt from Quince is one you’ll grab over and over all season long. This sweatshirt style is cut a bit shorter, a bit more shrunken all the way around. It has a cute little v-stitch at the neckline that I just adore and a laid-back look that pairs perfectly with jeans and joggers. It comes in 13 gorgeous colors to make your decisions even more complicated. (Sorry. Kind of.)
ImbĹŤdhi
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$124
I am not exaggerating when I say this is the most comfortable piece of clothing I’ve ever put on my body. Seriously, I had no intention of wearing for a night out when it arrived on my doorstep, but when I tried it on it felt like a hug from a goddess. I could not bring myself to take it off. (Luckily, it’s surprisingly simple to dress up.) The versatile jumpsuit with its cool drop crotch silhouette can seriously be worn for everything from yoga class to apple picking. The top is somehow magically supportive enough to forego a bra (I am not that kind of gal ever and this changed everything) but not at all suffocating. Rock it in the basic black or opt for one of the awesome new heathered hues, pair with your favorite cardigan and thank me later.
American Eagle
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$49.95
Flannel is the unofficial print of fall, so a cozy new button down is always in order. The oversize version from American Eagle is made from a soft woven cotton that’s perfect for everything from strolls in the apple orchard to spooky movie Sunday hangs.
Old Navy
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$44.99
This fitted number comes in all the gorgeous autumn jewel hues to make getting dressed easy. The henley style top and side slit are the perfect intersection of casual and dressy. Styled with a pair of chunky boots and an oversize cardigan you’ve got a look that will carry you through all the fall fetes.
Everlane
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$98
A washed black jean is one of my fall staples and this particular pair from Everlane is legit perfection. It’s one of their most popular styles (and not just with me!) given the uber-flattering fit that’s got a high enough rise, a touch of stretch and all the booty flattery. They’re also the ideal balance between skinnies (which may feel dated) and re-embracing the trendy JNCO-esque styles we’re being bombarded with right now. I’m sorry, I’m just not gonna do it.
Outerknown
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$148
If the name “blanket shirt” isn’t enough to sell you on this fall-ready essential, I’ll tell you this–you’ll never find a more rugged and wearable flannel in your entire life. Not only is it sustainably produced, the last-forever quality is the ideal weight for layering practically year round. As one of Outerknown’s signature pieces it comes in 25+ colorways and even a men’s version if you want to twin. (Who doesn’t love that?!)
Gap
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$79.95
I’ve been fantasizing about this bonkers expensive piece since I saw Gwyneth rocking it on Goop and have to say, the Gap dupe may be even better. The 100% cotton sweater is gorgeously slouchy with side slits and a generous turtleneck that’s so sophisticated it hurts. It comes in a handful of solids but this nautical navy and cream stripe has my whole heart.
Abercrombie
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$200
Sure, they’re having a moment, but wool blazers have been hot since When Harry Met Sally as far as I’m concerned. This oversize style from Abercrombie & Fitch leaves enough room underneath for a cashmere sweater or even a cute hoodie. And listen, if the name Abercrombie & Fitch instantly brings about images of belt-length denim skirts and off-color graphic tees, forget what you know. A&F is all grown up and here for all your tasteful fall wardrobe staples. Who knew? (Even my beloved sexagenarian influencer rocked their dresses this summer!)
Abercromie & Fitch
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$100
Sorry, one more because I’m telling you they’re totally crushing. Sherpa shirt jackets are my current fall jacket style of choice and this one is absolutely fantastic. The shorter length is a nice change from their usual oversize silhouette and it’s easy to dress up or down.
Knox Rose
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$45
I’m a big advocate of the statement cardigan duster. They’re super cozy and instantly make a T-shirt and jeans base into an enviable outfit. This budget-friendly leopard piece from Tar-jay even has pockets!
Old Navy
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$69.99
Ah, the no pants outfit of fall! Who can argue with that? We’re fans of pretty much any sweater dress, but this one in particular caught our eye for its relaxed silhouette and playful (but not overwhelming) blouson sleeves. The length is just right too! Not so long it weighs you down but not so short you’re worried your toddler will manage to hike it up far enough for your butt to make an appearance.
Gap
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$71
I definitely mail ordered a pair just like this from Delia*s back in the day and quite frankly wish I never parted with them. Luckily Gap’s fresh off the presses flared corduroys have the same patch front pockets and rich brown hue. I love that the flare isn’t comically oversized and that unlike my 90’s version come up high enough to keep everything tucked in.
Smash + Tess
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$140
If you’ve been all “Tell me again why I can’t leave the house in this comfy house coat,” say no more. This brand new style from Smash + Tess says “Girl, who says you have to?” The hooded marvel manages to look polished even though it checks all the cozy boxes. Just make sure you ditch the slippers before pick up though. We have to draw the line somewhere.
Lucky Brand
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$149
When the temps drop, your typical denim jacket doesn’t really cut it. But add a snuggly layer of sherpa and bam! Fall ready staple. Choose the timeless piece in a classic vintage wash like this one from Lucky Brand and you’ll be wearing it to the pumpkin patch for years to come.
H & M
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$17.99
Give us all the stuffed animal inspired fabrics, please. This minky top has a sporty cut with its stand up snap collar but looks equally fabulous with dressier pieces.
Ava & Viv
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$70
Elevate any outfit with this head-turner of a statement coat. I mean, has there ever been a prettier plaid?
Naadam
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$195
If you want to infuse your fall wardrobe with a dash of cozy luxury, I have two words for you. Cashmere joggers. Naadam offers some of the best cashmere at relatively reasonable prices (which is not to say they aren’t spendy, just less spendy than their counterparts) which is also sustainable to boot.
A version of this story was published September 24, 2018. It has been updated.