A new season doesn’t have to mean a whole new wardrobe— just focus on these five smartest trends. Transitional pieces are a must as the crisp air starts to settle in, so pair your favorite summer pieces—like those crimson pants you can’t get enough of—with some of our fall favorites. First off, we suspect that there will be plenty of pretty pleated skirts in your future, so get a jumpstart on shopping for these now. Midi-length skirts don’t require tights as early in the season as a shorter skirt would, so take advantage of that and start rocking them as soon as possible.
Need to upgrade your outfit with minimal effort? Try statement cuffs. Get on this maximalist trend by finding a cuff that can make even the most simple black dress stand out from the crowd. A new idea for fall: clutches are no longer exclusively for nighttime use. Find a fun clutch to carry around during the day, so you only have to take what is necessary with you.
Shoe-wise, while heels aren’t going anywhere, this season it’s imperative that they’re both pretty and practical: enter the walkable heel. We found a style that won’t leave you with throbbing feet at the end of the night, so try it out then thank us later. Finally, no fall wardrobe could be complete without a classic blazer. This season, the blazer has been getting some unexpected updates. Think about adding a little embellishment or pattern to your blazer, it might surprise you.
Take a look at the five essential trends for fall below and our product picks.
Pleated Skirts
Inspired by ballet skirts, these universally flattering midi-length styles make any ensemble more graceful. This gorgeous iteration is practically begging to be twirled around in; the narrow accordion pleats add a little bit of drama to a midi skirt. The ankle-skimming length works well with both flats and heels, so your options with this skirt are truly endless. Pair this with a flowy white blouse or tuck your favorite chunky turtleneck into it for a cozy fall look. Pale pink pairs with nearly everything—it works just like a neutral.
To buy: Club Monaco Annina Skirt, $180; clubmonaco.com.
Statement Cuffs
Bold, eye-catching bracelets make for one-step accessorizing—no other jewelry necessary. Even those with the most minimalist of styles will go for this wide cuff; while it is making a statement, it isn’t too flashy. The simple wave across the band is a subtle detail that packs a lot of punch in your outfit. Wear this with a pair of sleek black pants and a black blazer for work, or with a sleek dress on your night out. This is the perfect accessory to pack for a vacation; it is simple enough to be re-worn throughout the trip and won’t get tangled up with tons of other jewelry. Also available in silver.
To buy: A.V. Max Wide Wave Cuff, $60; avmaxnyc.com.
Day Clutch
These handheld bags fit your essentials but won’t weigh you down. And they make even denim feel dressy. This envelope style clutch has a woven texture that works well for both day and night, so consider carrying this with you on a day when you’re going straight from work to a night on the town. This clutch will fit everything you need for the day—phone, wallet, keys, and lipstick—with room for a little more. The best part about this clutch? It comes with a crossbody chain strap, so if you really don’t feel like carrying it, you don’t have to. Score!
To buy: SR Squared by Sondra Roberts Envelope Clutch, $65; zokydoky.com.
Walkable Heels
Dressy enough for work, comfortable enough for running errands, and stylish enough to be your new favorite shoe. These will have you feeling like you’re walking around in ballet slippers, but with the added bonus of a little bit of a heel. At not even a full inch, this heel won’t have you stumbling all over the sidewalk. A jacquard floral pattern in dusty pinks and grays covers these heels, adding an exciting element to these shoes. These are perfect for the office, even if you are constantly on the go, thanks to the low heel and comfortable round toe.
To buy: Zara Floral Block Heel, $30; zara.com.
Updated Blazers
Unexpected fabrics and design details let you have a little fun with a stalwart wardrobe staple. This light gray blazer is a refreshing take on the classic silhouette, which is usually featured in a black or navy. A herringbone pattern adds another unexpected detail to the jacket, which also comes with elbow patches. Pop this on over your favorite white button down and some boyfriend jeans for a relaxed weekend look that’s just as comfortable as it is polished. Not into blazers on the weekend? No problem! Toss this jacket over your shoulders to combat that brutal office A/C and become the style star of your workplace.
To buy: Loft Blazer, $128; loft.com.
