We Asked 10 Stylists What Fall Fashion Items to Buy This Year, and Their 15 Picks Are All Under $50
The arrival of a new season also comes with the realization that you have plenty of holes to fill in your seasonal wardrobe. A well-curated fall capsule wardrobe will serve as a stylish and practical foundation for your outfits, giving you the flexibility to create a variety of looks, whether you’re dressing for a cozy evening or a rainy day.
So, we turned to 10 fashion experts for help with figuring out the most versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched—all under $50. From a classic chunky loafer to a chic-yet-timeless tweed blazer, these finds are equal parts practical and aesthetically pleasing. Scroll down to see stylist-approved wardrobe essentials you can repurpose throughout the season.
Stylist-Approved Fall Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
- Dream Pairs Chunky Loafers, $38 (was $43)
- Sidefeel Wide Leg Jeans, $28 (was $40)
- Hoxis Oversize Vegan Leather Tote, $29 (was $36)
- Happy Sailed Tweed Blazer, from $38 with coupon (was $55)
- Ykr Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater, $31 with coupon (was $36)
- Dream Pairs Ankle Booties, $33
- Merokeety Oversized Crewneck Sweater, $24 with coupon and promo code (was $59)
Dream Pairs Chunky Loafers
“Having a great comfortable go-to shoe for fall eliminates all of that morning how-do-I-coordinate-a-great-outfit confusion,” Emmy award-winning designer, Brenda Cooper, tells Wade Review. “Plus, it’s a timesaver, so you can get out the door in a fraction of the time feeling confident, comfortable, and put together. With so many ways to coordinate this classic and modern shoe for a spectacular look, try it with a plain box pleated skirt, or a plaid skirt, a turtleneck, and a great blazer.” She suggests going for a black patent leather shoe for “a little more pizazz or a black and white spectator loafer for a more retro look.”
Sidefeel Wide Leg Jeans
According to Cooper, you can't go wrong with a pair of wide-leg pants in your closet this coming season. She prefers them because they're "comfortable and a great reprieve from tight, form-fitting clothes like skinny jeans or leggings. They add both casual and dressy elegance to any outfit.” She suggests wearing them with anything from white sneakers “to look hip and casual,” or high-heeled pumps for a more “sexy and elegant” look. “I lived in them in the 1990s and am thrilled they are back, as they have become a staple for me today and for the unforeseeable future!"
Hoxis Oversize Vegan Leather Tote
It’s time to bring attention to your accessories. Amy Acton, expert stylist and CEO of Acton Style Group, says that “a tote bag in your fall capsule wardrobe is like pumpkin spice for your latte —it just makes everything better! Not only is it the perfect blend of style and functionality, but it’s also your trusty sidekick, ready to carry all the essentials you need for those crisp autumn days. From cozy scarves to unexpected farmer’s market finds, this bag will never judge you for overpacking.”
Happy Sailed Tweed Blazer
Acton also emphasizes the significance of your outer layers. "A tweed blazer in a rich fall color isn't just an article of clothing. It's your ticket to looking effortlessly polished. Whether you're headed to the office or meeting friends for brunch, this blazer instantly elevates your outfit from 'just woke up' to 'I have my life together (mostly).' Plus, tweed has that timeless charm. Throw it over jeans, a dress, or even joggers, and you've got yourself a look that's equal parts smart and stylish."
Ykr Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater
If it were up to personal stylist Bobbi Schwartz, she’d start building every fall capsule wardrobe with a loose-fitting turtleneck sweater. “Worn with the collar flipped up, it creates a chic, high-neck look—one of this season’s hottest trends,” she asserts. “For a look that is universally flattering, you may want to opt for a tunic-length silhouette. As you build your casual capsule wardrobe, the key to success lies in selecting simple, understated pieces like this. For fall, warmer neutrals bring a sense of richness to your outfits.”
Dream Pairs Ankle Booties
Don't forget a trusty pair of ankle boots. "Pointed toes are timeless, undeniably sexier and more chic than their round-toed counterparts," Schwartz explains. "Additionally, suede adds a richness to your look that smooth leather just can't match. Pairing a pointed toe with the drape and puddling of wide-leg jeans creates a striking look that will have people asking about your style all day long."
Merokeety Oversized Crewneck Sweater
“This versatile top comes in different colors and patterns, so there’s something for every taste,” raves James Firestein, founder of OpenLuxury and a luxury designer expert. “It’s made from a soft, stretchy material that drapes nicely over your figure. I love pairing it with leggings or skinny jeans and boots for a casual daytime outfit. But you can also dress it up with heels and statement jewelry for a night out. Plus, it’s under $50, which is a steal for a top you’ll wear on repeat all season.”