23 Fall Items I'm Actually Purchasing—and 5 I'm Leaving in My Cart to Languish
There are two types of people in this world: the kind who hit "add to cart" with little intention of actually purchasing, and the kind who do not. I've never considered myself to fall into the former category, but for some reason or another, this fall, I've been dillydallying around every e-commerce site known to mankind.
In other words, there are a lot of full shopping carts with my name on them peppered about the internet. Because of this, I've concocted a fairly comprehensive autumn shopping list that paints a picture of how I'll be dressing in the cooler, cozier months ahead. And in an effort to take action, I'm editing down my cart to pieces I fully intend to purchase—and ditching the pieces I'll be passing on.
Ahead, shop the 23 fall must-haves that'll take your outfit game up a notch—and see which trends I'm saying farewell to (at least for now).
What I'm Purchasing
There will always be room in my closet for neutral-colored knitwear—always.
I love contrast stitching on denim, plus this pair features a wider leg, which is my silhouette du jour for this fall.
Bucket hats may have reigned supreme this summer, but that doesn't mean they don't translate to fall, which is why I'm investing in this playful plaid version.
A pair of white leather sneakers is always useful to have in your closet; after all, they go with everything and are super comfortable.
As much as I love denim, sometimes a pair of trousers feel more polished, which is why I'll be snagging this sleek navy pair.
A white button-down is one of the more versatile items you can own; I'm refreshing my collection this year with this iteration.
I know, I know—headbands have been around for a minute. But I haven't joined the bandwagon yet, so I'll be wearing this noir padded one all throughout fall.
Patent-leather textures are a great way to add dimension to your cold-weather outfits.
I'm in desperate need of new lingerie, and this delicate blush-hued bra is exactly what I'm after.
Croc-effect always looks more expensive and feels slightly more interesting than regular leather.
I'm not really a jumpsuit person, but for one reason or another, I simply have to have this one.
This bag combines my love of petite purses and printed scarves.
Fall is a perfect time to wear sturdier fabrics like this pumpkin-colored corduroy.
The shape, the color, the lenses—I can't get enough of these perfect sunglasses.
I enjoy the idea of swapping out my delicate gold layering jewelry for wood textures like this cool choker.
A pop of sock is the perfect way to take an all-black look from ordinary to oh yes.
What I'm Leaving Behind
Cowboy Boots
As much as I wish I was all aboard the Western train, this footwear trend doesn't mirror my aesthetic and therefore doesn't really go with anything in my existing wardrobe. I'll be leaving the cowgirl vibe to those better suited for it.
Skinny Jeans
The last few years, I've stopped wearing skinny jeans for a few reasons: 1) They're really not that comfortable, and 2) I don't find them to be all that flattering on my body. Even though there were a few key runways that spotlighted this slim silhouette (Celine, for example), I won't be partaking.
Backless Loafers
I've become tired with this footwear trend, and because I live in New York and commute everywhere by foot, I need a fall shoe that doesn't run the risk of falling off.
Chunky Sneakers
I already have big feet… I don't need to emphasize them with clown-like kicks. End of story.
Tie-Dye
My love affair with tie-dye is far from over, but I'll be retiring this psychedelic pattern for the time being to make way for moody florals and cozy plaids.
Nicole Kliest is a freelance writer and editor based in New York City who focuses on fashion, travel, food, wine, and pretty much anything else that's amusing to write about. After graduating from Pepperdine University with a bachelor's in journalism and creative writing, she started her career back in 2010 as Who What Wear's photo editor and throughout the last decade has contributed to publications including Fashionista, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, The Zoe Report, PopSugar, Fodor's Travel, and several others. She also copywrites and has worked with clients such as Frame, Sea, 3x1, Intelligentsia, and others to develop brand voices through storytelling and creative marketing. She's very passionate about the ways we can improve our sustainability efforts in the fashion industry as well as cultivating content that's diverse and inclusive of all people. When she's not checking out the latest restaurant opening in her West Village neighborhood or riding her bicycle along the West Side Highway, she can be found scheming her next trip somewhere around the world. (Up next is Vienna.)