Ahead of a new season, the best way to ensure you secure the greatest pieces is to shop well before the change in weather (if you hadn’t noticed, we’re all about getting you ahead of fall’s biggest trends). While your swimwear and sandals are still seeing much use at the moment, the newest collections have started hitting stores and are filled with new trends you’re going to see on every fashion girl in your circle. Since we know the thrill of fresh boots, coats and layering pieces can’t be beaten, we tapped some of the industry’s most stylish women from fashion and buying directors at major retailers (these ladies are the ones who pick the exact pieces you’ll shop) to stylists (they know a thing or two about making a sartorial statement) to serve as inspiration for what trends and items are most worth investing in early.
Here, read on to see what six ultra-savvy shoppers are spending on for fall from the tops, skirts and shoes you can wear now to coats and boots you’ll need in time for winter. We know you’d hate to miss out on a cult item because it sold out too fast, so act swiftly on pieces that catch your eye.
Candice Fragis, Buying and Merchandising Director at Farfetch
“I love the color combo of this shoe which works trans-seasonally. The Neous aesthetic and style is so refreshingly chic.”
“I love this colorway as a transitional fall piece—it works well for my post-summer tan (which I intend on having) and also has warm enough tones to take me through winter.”
“This teddy coat is street style glam—it's super relaxed but seriously fabulous, so it can work with almost anything.”
Caroline Maguire, Fashion Director at Shopbop
“A colorful faux-fur topper is the perfect statement coat for the season. Skip neutral colors and opt for something vibrant. This bright yellow jacket from I.AM.GIA is street-style worthy.”
“Tartan plaid (not just any plaid!) is the must-have print for fall. I'm buying these wool pants from R13. I love that it’s a heritage print, but it’s updated in a drop crotch harem style—très chic!”
“Animal prints with color! I absolutely love this unexpected multicolored polo shirt from Koché. The red leopard with a pleated peplum detail is everything.”
Micaela Erlanger, Author and Stylist
“PVC isn't just a spring trend! I love the affordability and modern feel of this everyday leather and PVC bag.”
“Leopard is the new neutral and can be incorporated into anything. Consider it your new favorite layering piece, like this amazing Michael Kors Collection coat.”
“You can wear a statement earring with anything from jeans to a party dress. I cover all accessorizing tips in my new book How to Accessorize: A Perfect Finish to Every Outfit, available on Amazon.”
Natalie Kingham, Fashion and Buying Director at MATCHESFASHION.COM
“Upcycled fabrics and 1970s Laura Ashley-style dresses from Batsheva are a personal favorite. The floral dresses, adorned with bold prints and ruffle, are reminiscent of Little House On The Prairie girls.”
“Stomping boots have been a key trend for the AW18 season where shoes that have made themselves known. Western boots have been a favorite style of mine with these ones for Margiela being a key stand out.”
“Tailored blazers are an essential for winter seasons. I love this animal print-style from a collaboration between Pallas and stylist Claire Thomson-Jonville. Animal print has been done in an such an elevated way this season and the slits on the sleeves are an interesting yet subtle detail.”
Erin Walsh, Celebrity Stylist
“An ankle bootie is the answer to most outfit questions. I love the feminine ruffle twist on this one—and a belt on a shoe! Brilliant. Also, it's a reasonable height for all the running around I have to do in a day.”
“This coat brightens up anything including pajamas. A classic print and I love the cinched waist—polished with a twist which is, in general, my mantra. Love what Balenciaga is up to these days.”
“Isn't this just the cutest skirt to take you from day to night? The prettiest color on a classic print. Either with a crisp blouse or a cropped turtleneck sweater and maybe cinch up the waist with a great belt. And a fab earring like an Erin hoop from Jennifer Fisher—done.”
Erica Russo, Vice Present and Fashion Director for Accessories and Beauty at Bloomingdale’s
“This bag makes any outfit more interesting and the red adds the perfect pop of color.”
“Plaid and blazers are two big trends for fall 2018. This Sandro jacket is a wardrobe staple that I’ll be reaching for all season long.”
“I’ve had my eye on these for a while. I love that you can dress them up or down to create completely different looks. Plus, the kitten heel makes these easy to run around in all day.”
