Basics first is what I always say. Then, add in a few thoughtful trends to update your wardrobe for the season and make fashion feel like fun. Of course, at the end of the day, I believe you should wear what makes you feel your best, but this approach has worked well not only for me but also for the thousands of women I’ve talked to! Thankfully, the items in this post are trendy yet classic at the same time. They feel current and popular, but they were never really out of style. (It’s a good thing we don’t base our lives around the cyclical fashion calendar, right? Who could keep up?) If you’re looking for fall clothing ideas that make you feel up to date without trying too hard, give these a shot!
1. Barn Jacket
A barn jacket is great for more rugged and casual looks, but the nice thing is, it also pairs well with elevated wardrobe items (like a button-up pictured above). Instead of looking out of place, dressing down a button-up with a barn jacket makes it more accessible for day-to-day outfits and also creates a stylish “cool girl” look.
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Quince Organic Waxed Cropped Barn Jacket
2. Alternative Take on the Trench Coat
I love having a classic trench coat in my wardrobe as much as the next girl, and though nothing will ever replace that, a great way to freshen up your fall wardrobe is to experiment with some new styles – and there are many! From a visible patterned lining to a cropped coat to a mac coat, the only “problem” here is finding the one (or ones) you want.
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Quince Comfort Stretch Mac Coat
3. Something in Chocolate Brown
Chocolate brown is one of the top autumn colors, year after year. Whether it’s shoes, a bag, or a belt, something in this rich color instantly updates your fall outfits for the new season, adding an elevated touch while you’re at it.
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J.Crew Shoulder Bag in Suede
4. A Stylish Baseball Cap
Not everyone is a baseball cap person, and that’s okay! For those who are, an unexpected way to update your fall outfits is with a trendy baseball cap – especially a Polo Ralph Lauren one. This style of hat is one the “fashion girlies” love, but more than that, think of how casual-chic a baseball cap would look paired with an oversized blazer or trench coat, jeans, a white tee, loafers, and a stunning bag. An ideal fall outfit right there!
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Polo Ralph Lauren Baseball Cap
5. Boat Shoes
These shoes are the “cool girl” shoe year after year, and nope, you don’t have to be on a boat to wear them. There have been many updates to these shoes – from colored laces to charms to a lug sole and more. The most important thing is to find the one you like. Wondering how to wear them? They look especially great paired with jeans or denim skirts.
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Madewell The Aleks Lug Loafer
6. A Beautiful Leather Bag
Your handbag will stand out – you get to choose if it’s in a good or bad way! Okay, it’s not that serious, but it’s true that a handbag will make (or break) your outfit. 100% leather or suede are the ideal options, but as always, buy the best you can afford. As far as what makes it “trendy”, look for a slightly different style – bowler bags, east-west and smaller shoulder bags (among others) are having a moment.
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Quince Hudson Satchel
Fall Purchases You Won’t Regret Later
I don’t know about you, but I tend to regret my spontaneous, super trendy clothing purchases the most. The ones I don’t regret are the ones that are rooted in a timeless style – like the ones on this list. By incorporating one or all of these picks, you can have a wardrobe that feels current yet classic at the same time!
Is autumn still hot where you are? Up Next: 9 Fall Outfits to Wear When It’s Still Hot Out
