5 Things I'm Eyeing For Fall
And how to style them.
Friends, the mornings are feeling crisp. We’ve got highs in the low-70’s and lows in the mid-50’s here. This weekend, I put away my summer dresses and pulled my warmer knits down from the upper shelves of my closet. I’m making space for the new season and all the beautiful textures it’ll bring into my wardrobe.
As I share these edits, I like to keep a few things in mind: quality, longevity, and whether the items would fit into an “everyday” vibe. More classic outfits and styles are my thing. Just sharing some context for any new readers here.
Here are all the autumnal bits that caught my eye this week as I’ve browsed around…
1 // Quality leather loafers under $200, GH Bass at Nordstrom.
These look so classic, as far as penny loafers go. The reviews look great, and the price is right. This season, I’m drawn to more of a shinier, smooth leather finish on loafers to provide textural contrast to softer, “matte” knits.
If you’re looking for something more minimalist and sleek, these Jenni Kayne loafers are stunning. I’m never let down by the quality of JK pieces.
Below are some ideas on how I’d wear this style of loafer…
And on the more elevated front for work or evening plans, the loafers pair naturally with a longline blazer and a lady-like top-handle or shoulder bag, as seen above.
2 // Cropped wool barn jacket, Sézane.
The corduroy collar on this jacket is the perfect tonal contrast against the cream color. The jacket is made of wool, meaning it will layer well with thin tees or shirts while keeping you warm.
I’m seeing a variation of this cropped barn jacket at multiple retailers and designers this season, like at J.Crew, Shopbop, and Uniqlo. The silhouette works quite well when paired with full-length jeans or trousers; the proportions are leg-lengthening…especially useful for petites like me who’ve got short torsos. :)
3 // Satin wide-leg pants, La Ligne.
These seem to be a high-quality fan-favorite (at least amongst my fellow Substack writers), and it may be time for me to take the plunge… The elastic waistband is key, and the bias cut looks sleek. Having a satin pant in my fall/winter rotation will provide an elevated look + textural contrast to all my cozy sweaters. (I have a code: ALISHA10 for 10% off)
There are a multitude of alternatives for this style of “satin pant” this season…
Fluid satin bias pants, Vince. $$. Comes in fun colors (the rose is beautiful).
Satin mid-rise bias pant, Reformation. $$. Available in petite!
Cosmo pant, J.Crew. $$. Also available in petite.
Lavon pant, Doen. $$$. 100% silk with a fringe hem.
The silk bias pant, Comme Si. $$$ This mint green is stunning.
…To name just a few. Please drop a comment if you spot any other good alts in the $-$$ range!
4 // Cotton cashmere polo with contrast collar, Alex Mill.
Perfection. This is what you’d get if a cashmere crewneck had a baby with a rugby shirt. An easy, everyday workhorse knit that’s just a step up from your average fall sweater to keep things fresh and current.
How I’d wear it: Dark wash jeans + gold hoops + ballet flats + a structured, refined leather bag.
5 // The platonic ideal of an ankle boot, Reformation.
A good ankle boot is a fall wardrobe staple. The key to making a more casual fall outfit (i.e. jeans + a sweater) feel instantly elevated is looking for a refined, heeled shoe you can tolerate on the daily. This refined, pointy-toed, comfortable kitten heel ankle boot sits at a palatable price point and might fit the bill.
↠ Craving more fall finds? I’ve refreshed “the fall shop” on my ShopMy page and add to it every few days as I find more pieces. Bookmark it or add me to your “circle” to follow along!
Sézane’s fall collection is filled with so many gems. A few favorites: This suede crossbody-shoulder bag is unique, and the color is gorgeous. This fan favorite sweater now comes in a pretty burgundy. This shade of green is lovely too. This cool leather jacket has already sold out (create an alert). Their entire jackets collection is worth a look—we’ll do a deep dive later.
A perfect gray sweater from Alex Mill’s new arrivals. I swear by the quality of this brand. This sweater jacket looks very elegant.
And some Madewell finds: This suede shopper tote. A belted bucket tote (reminds me of Toteme). Chocolate suede ballet flats. A simple but interestingly cut shirt-dress for work.
Did you know Old Navy makes bags now? I was sent this $35 suede tote to try*, and I like the color and shape. You can wear it top-handle or crossbody. It’s flimsier than I’d like it to be, but at this price point, I can look past it. A good pick for any other moms of little ones out there who need a “I don’t care if this bag gets thrown around and stained with apple sauce” kind of fall bag, ha! *gifted PR, not sponsored, just my honest opinion. I’m under no obligation to post about gifted items.
These posts have been so much fun for me to put together. I’d love your input as my brain is BUZZING with fresh ideas…
Feel free to expand on the last 2 in the comments section:
This is the Style column at Downtime. You can read the complete Style archives here.
Customize your newsletter experience: Edit your email notification settings here if you’d prefer not to receive Style column emails. Scroll down to Notifications and toggle off “Style & Shopping.”
Previously on Downtime…
Quick Links:
Refer a friend, get free months:
If you’re a brand interested in sponsoring the letter, please reach out to kristin@downtimenewsletter.com.
Obsessed with all of the petite call outs as a 5'0 girlie myself!!
I’d love to see a little show-and-tell/mini review of things you’ve recently purchased! I’ve been curious about those brown Loeffler Randall flats you posted the other week.