The leaves are starting to turn and sweaters are coming out of storage. However you feel about fall, it’s time to dig into some of the season’s top trends, which this year range from silver metallics and white skirts to ballet flats and top-handle bags.
While this season’s fashion is all about wearability, that doesn’t mean it’s a time for boring outfits (although, if you’re in that phase in your life, please know I’m also there). The color red, for example, is one trend R29 editors are eyeing to stave off the imminent cold weather blues.
Before you call it quits on your seasonal wardrobe transformation, take a look at some of the best fashion items our team recommends for the season, from puppy-printed shirts to secondhand Oxford shoes.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
DKNY Plaid Vest
“I’ve been looking for a new vest to add to my collection for a while, and this one fits right in. While I love neutrals, I typically have a hard time pairing prints in those shades with other pieces in my wardrobe. Yet, this one has been easy: I’ve paired it with trousers (pictured here), as well as white skirts and jeans. Even though it’s on trend this fall, the vest is a classic that will continue to be in my wardrobe for years to come.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, fashion writer
DKNY Plaid 7 Button Vest, $, available at
Maje Silver Pleated Skirt
“Metallics are having a moment this year and, if the runways of the spring 2024 season are any indication, they will continue to trend next year. I got this skirt earlier this summer and have worn it for the last month from New York Fashion Week (pictured here) to London and now Paris. I love it because it looks equally great when paired with a statement top (like this Cecilie Bahnsen number that I rented via Rent The Runway) as a neutral gray sweater for a more subtle monochrome look. I could also wax poetic about these Chloe sneakers that have likewise gone with me from New York to Europe and turned me into a sneaker person but I kind of already did.” — Irina Grechko, fashion director
Maje Silver Pleated Skirt, $, available at Photo: Christian Vierig/Getty Images.
Rachel Antonoff Best In Show James Shirt & Furla Camelia Bag
“I love a print, especially a cheeky print (zoom in on those pups, I dare ya). This one calls to me for fall with its faded burnt orange on faded yellow pattern and sturdy wooden buttons.
As a person with big boobs and wide hips, I’ve really struggled with the current trend of wearing cross-bodies and belt bags tight across the chest. That is until I found this Furla bag on Rent The Runway. It’s small enough to sit comfortably above my hip but big enough to hold my wallet, keys, and glasses. Bonus: The strap is adjustable and long enough to go below the butt.” — Hannah Rimm, senior life editor
Rachel Antonoff James Shirt, $, available at
Furla Camelia Bag, $, available at
AE Next Level Super High-Waisted Flare Jean
“I was rendered speechless the first time I slipped into a pair of American Eagle jeans (mom jeans, naturally) in the year 2023. I couldn’t figure out how the same brand I adored in my youth could fit my adult body in, dare I say it, an even better manner. I was gifted this flared pair in black, and they are currently the most flattering pair of jeans I own. They hug in all the right places and are a soft, stretchy material.” — Annie Black, senior social editor
American Eagle AE Next Level Super High-Waisted Flare Jean, $, available at
Banana Republic Red Suit
“I famously don’t wear bold colors. But the fall runways convinced me to give red a try. I was surprised at how much I liked this two-piece linen suit — the statement-making tone of red feels like a neutral thanks to its darker undertones. While I styled it together, I see myself wearing the pieces separately as well this fall. Fashion can surprise you, if you let it.” — Frances Solá- Santiago, fashion writer
Banana Republic Lena Relaxed Linen-Blend Blazer, $, available at
Banana Republic Lena Wide-Leg Linen-Blend Pant, $, available at
Dr. Martens 1461 Women’s Patent Leather Oxford Shoes
“Years ago, I saw these shoes at a coffee shop in my hometown on some girl’s feet who looked much cooler than me. As an ethical vegan, I have a strict only-secondhand-leather policy, so to find a pair of shoes I’ve been thinking about for almost a decade? I believe they call that happenstance.
I know I’ll have these for years and years to come, and I love how shiny they stay if you keep them clean. I expect to wear a lot of Jenna Lyons-esque fits with these shoes this fall.” — Annie Black, senior social editor
Dr. Martens 1461 Women’s Patent Leather Oxford Shoes, $, available at
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Why Fall Fashion Is All About Wearability In 2023
