Welcome to 10 Things to Buy, a monthly shopping list that helps you shop smarter by focusing on the 10 key items to add to your cart that month if your wardrobe is in need of a boost. As a Who What Wear editor for the past 12 years, I’ve spent many hours advising people on what to shop for during any given season, so you’re in good hands. Whether you’re shopping for cold weather, warm weather, a vacation, or a wedding, I’m here to offer up the most seasonally appropriate suggestions. Be sure to return at the start of each month for more.
If you’re like me and have been literally counting the days until fall (sorry, it’s too hot and there are so many bugs), our moment has finally arrived. Well, not technically—we still have many weeks of summer left, but we’re inching closer and closer to changing leaves and sweaters. We may not be able to wear all of the fall things yet, but we can at least start shopping for them. You’ll also thank yourself later when the best finds are sold out.
As per usual, I put together a highly curated list of the ten best things to shop for this month. Keep scrolling to get the details on the smartest (and coolest) pieces to order during August, and shop my carefully chosen suggestions.
Toggle-Closure Jacket
While toggle-closure jackets were quickly rising in popularity in the spring, summer forced a hiatus. But as predicted, toggle-closure styles are making a swift return for fall. As of late, I’ve come across satin frog-closure styles, wool felt ones with minimal toggles, ones with military-style toggle closures, and the list goes on. Now is the time to secure yours, as sell-outs are already happening.
Satin Ballet Flats
Making the jump from summer to fall is easy when you have the right shoes, and one trend, in particular, is perfect for that transition: satin ballet flats. Yes, the trend Miu Miu started years ago is having a resurgance, but the fall 2026 version is more minimalist, in keeping with the overarching ballet flats trend as of late.
Something Royal Purple
The runways are It girls have alerted us that royal purple is the color trend to add to your wardrobe as we enter fall. The best part is that you can start wearing it now.
Transitional Sweater
Sweaters made of cotton and linen are perfect for the late-summer-early-fall days to come. Cardigans, rollnecks, and boatnecks are the chicest styles to shop for right now.
Fancy Cargo Pants
Cargo pants and silky pants are two of 2026’s biggest trends, and brands are wisely combining the two. Pair them with a tee or lightweight sweater for an effortless outfit that stands out.
Long-Sleeve Tee
Sure, it’s a basic, but long-sleeve tees are also very trendy right now. There’s not better time to stock up than August.
Dark-Wash Low-Rise Jeans
If you missed out on the Gap x Hailey Bieber low-rise jeans, not to worry, as I found a handful of similar styles that are also excellent. What’s great about this denim trend is that it an easily be dressed up or down.
Silky Mini Tote
If you’ve been lusting over The Row’s Cecily bag, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a new tassel version for fall. A Valesque bag is a great alt (and equally sought-after).
Similar to the now-sold-out Valesque bag pictured at the top of the story.
Layering Tank
During the weird-weather times to come, you’ll be glad you planned ahead with some layering tanks to wear under your jackets and sweaters. These options from Banana Republic, Flore Flore, and Reformation look equally chic on their own.
Dark Beige Trousers
Dark beige is *the* pant color trend to buy for fall 2026. It looks elegant and goes with everything. What more could you ask for?
