Remember how exciting back-to-school shopping was back in the day? At least for me, the prospect of carting a new pack of markers into my classroom was reason enough to anticipate summer's demise and even though my school days are long gone, I still have the same excitement for fall shopping, at least as far as my wardrobe is concerned. Don't get me wrong, I love summer, but there's nothing quite like a crisp blazer, new pair of jeans, or comfortable-but-cool flats—my fall shopping staples—to immediately put me in fall mode.
Now that more and more retailers are making the transition into fall with their offering, I've been quietly eyeing a ton of staples and debating which I want to add to my wardrobe. Even though it's still quite hot out where I am, I figure it can't hurt to get ahead on my fall outfit planning. So scroll on see all the rather affordable jeans, blazers, and flats that have me all jazzed for cooler weather.
Blazers
Calling it now: groutfits, AKA all-grey outfits, are set to be this fall's version of "stick of butter" dressing.
Reworked blazers are a trend we saw all over the F/W 2020 runways.
Of course, the classic and wildly versatile boxy beige blazer isn't going anywhere.
This is definitely someone's power color—is it yours?
Fashion girls are finding a new way to wear their oversize blazers, i.e. over a mini dress with knee boots.
Made from a soft knit with raw edges, it's no wonder Nordstrom shoppers raved about this blazer in their reviews.
Move over, "dad" sneakers—it's all about "dad" blazers for fall.
Jeans
Yep, distressed jeans are back in style again, this time with a looser-fitting shape.
I can't express my love for Levi's ribcage jeans enough, so you can bet I'm adding this new bootcut style to my closet ASAP.
I had to blink to make sure I saw this sale price correctly but these are, in fact, a big 2020 jean trend on sale for $44.
I'm almost always a fan of exposed buttons on jeans. I think they make a pair look so elevated.
A classic jean, an even more classic outfit idea.
I can't pass up a good straight-leg jean when I see one.
I'm really drawn to this mid-wash which looks good with nearly anything.
It's not every day I test a new denim trend but I really want to try a pair of these slim flare jeans.
It's the subtle retro feel of these jeans for me.
Flats
The square-shaped toe is just another reason why these are so on-trend.
I own way too many Dr. Martens, but what's one more pair?
Just when I was starting to think ballet flats we're tired, brands introduced modern updates like the square toe here.
I'm here for a cool clog moment.
We went ahead and made our own dream flats for fall, and not to be biased, but I think we did a pretty good job.
Who knew bows and loafers went together so well?
Well these are charming.
I'm having a mary-jane moment and I'm not even sorry about it!
Nordstrom and Madewell shoppers give these flats high ratings for being comfortable. I'm giving them a high rating for being modern.
Have you heard? Fisherman shoes are the "ugly" shoe trend we're loving right now.
Super sleek.
The croc-effect really takes these to another level.
Next up: 9 fall outfit trends the most stylish women are already wearing.
-
No Offense to Trousers, But Gwyneth Paltrow Just Made This "Dated" Denim Trend Look Way More ElegantI'm sold.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For This Effortless Wardrobe Essential When I Don't Know What to WearHere are nine easy ways to style the piece.
-
Celebs in Their 40s and 50s Are Styling Jeans With This One Sneaker Color TrendIt's probably not what you think.
-
Trust Me—This Is the Most Elevated Denim Style There IsI found the perfect pair.
-
5 Days Into 2025, Kendall and Hailey Already Appointed This the Year's Top Flat ShoeIt makes jeans look so elegant.
-
Nicole Kidman's Non-Skinny, Non-Baggy Jeans Are the Ideal Airport Denim TrendNo need to pack any other pairs.
-
Get a Head Start on the Top 2025 Trends With These Key Pieces From the Nordstrom Half-Yearly SaleYou'll actually wear these forever.
-
These 4 Winter Trends Look So Chic With JeansPerfect pairings.
