This year, fall fashion trends are all about getting back to basics, with tailored denim, ballet flats, and business-core staples all in the mix. Yet, while popular styles may be calling for restraint and wearability, there’s still room to play, as temperatures continue dropping and our minds start to focus on holiday dressing.
The imminent holiday season doesn’t come without some wardrobe anxiety, as we go between wanting to shop for dopamine-boosting festive styles to mark the occasion and investing in closet staples that we can re-wear once the new year begins. All with the reality of limited budgets.
Luckily, the Refinery29 team has been busy trying out some of the season’s best arrivals, ranging from shiny vinyl coats and platform shoes to Y2k-inspired crystal-embellished belts. There are also investment pieces like suiting and jewelry, as well as lounging essentials for days when the weather calls for soup and a movie.
Ahead, take a look at some of the best fashion items our team tried and loved last month.
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.
Zara Mid-Rise Loose-Fit Jeans
“My ninth-grade JNCO jeans-loving self would love my latest Zara purchase. What’s more is that the trendy denim style is super versatile: I can take these jeans from day to night by simply adding an oversized blazer and heels.” — Carli Whitwell, Senior Editorial Director
Zara ZW Mid-Rise Loose-Fit Jeans, $, available at Zara
Argent Plaid Blazer and Maxi Skirt
“I’ve been on the hunt for a good skirt suit for a while. Just in time for fall, I got my hands on this plaid number from Argent, the brand known for its hot pink pantsuits worn by celebrities like Kerry Washington and Sophia Bush. The fabric is thick enough to be worn on its own on a warm-ish fall day but thin enough to be layered under coats and jackets later this winter. I also love that the midi skirt features side slits that allow a peek at the shoes.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
Argent Patchwork Peak Lapel Blazer, $, available at Argent
Argent Work Skirt, $, available at Argent
Charles & Keith Pixie Platform Mary Janes
“Mary Jane shoes are one of the year’s top shoe trends, so it makes sense that this pair by Charles & Keith has become one of my favorite footwear styles this year. The platform and curvy silhouette give this otherwise classic style an edgier look that still works for both day and night. For styling, I’ve loved pairing it with denim shorts (pictured here) for a casual look, as well as a bubble hem dress to attend the New York City Ballet gala. The options are endless.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer
Charles & Keith Pixie Platform Mary Janes, $, available at Charles & Keith
Lululemon Align™ High-Rise Short 6″
“When I’m not wearing these shorts on the yoga mat, I’ll pair them with a sweater and plonk myself on the sofa. The buttery soft and weightless fabric means they hug your legs without suffocating them, and the fabric material gives the shorts a breathable and sweat-wicking quality. When you want to feel put together but actually comfortable, these are your go-to. Plus, they make your bum look great! — Kelly Washington, UK Social Editor
Aritzia Align Short, $, available at Aritzia
Buck Mason Cloud Jersey L/S Slim Crew
“I’ve always loved Buck Mason for its high-quality vintage-inspired pieces and shop this brand when I’m looking for basics. This long-sleeve tee is the perfect weight for layering — aka it won’t make you overheat under a thick sweater and coat — and comes in an array of neutral shades from smokey ash to oyster. Plus, the tee’s blend of cotton, bamboo, and wool makes for a buttery soft feel.” — Kate Spencer, Sr. Affiliate Partnerships Manager
Buck Mason Cliud Jersey S/L Slim Crew, $, available at Buck Mason
Sézane Basile Cardigan
“With temperatures dropping, I went in search of the ultimate cozy cardigan and came across this perfectly chunky Sézane knit. Made from softest wool, this button-up knit is ideal for keeping me warm at my desk, with the slight balloon sleeve keeping it feeling fashionable rather than frumpy (see: Mrs Doubtfire).” — Alicia Lansom, Associate Editor
Sézane Basile Cardigan, $, available at Sézane
Vagabond Kenova Loafer
“I’ve been long searching for the perfect pair of black loafers and always seem to come back to Vagabond. I already own a pair of knee-high boots from them that I love and wear often so I can vouch for both their quality and comfort.” — Kristine Romano, Associate Editor, Photo & Design
Vagabond Shoemakers Kenova Loafer, $, available at Nordstrom
Aligne Kier Wool Wrap Skirt and Kyla Asymmetric Waistcoat
“I’ve been infatuated with this set ever since I saw it. Aligne makes beautiful, sustainable pieces that are built to last so this worn together is an investment in my formal office wear, but the pieces also work separately. I’m particularly fond of the asymmetric hem on the waistcoat and the buttoning detail on the skirt.” — Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health and Living Editor
Benedetta Bruzziches Belt
“I am in my belt era. In the last few months, I bought a few investment-worthy belts to use as statement pieces to accessorize my more simple looks. This crystal belt — which I bought during a super sale that’s no longer going on — is the perfect accessory to dress up a little black dress or a casual jeans look. I brought it with me on a three-week work trip for which I only packed one suitcase, wearing it with blazers and T-shirts, as well as sweater dresses to make them a little more special.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
Benedetta Bruzziches Venus Crystal-Embellished Belt, $, available at Farfetch
Nia The Label Devon Mini Skirt
“I’m so late to the mini skirt party that, by now, maxi skirts have taken over, but I don’t care because this pleated number from Nia The Label has been my weekend go-to for a few weeks now. My main issue with mini skirts has always been feeling like they’re just way too short or tight to move freely, yet this one is completely the opposite. I love the wrap-style silhouette that allows me to adjust it however I feel like.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer
Nia The Label Devon Skirt, $, available at Nia The Label
Kitri Dominique Chocolate Vinyl Coat
“Chocolate brown is in for spring/summer 2024, so it makes sense that when I saw this coat from Kitri, I fell in love. Big, brown, and boxy, it’s even better IRL. I guess fall weather isn’t so bad when you can wear outerwear like this.” — Kelly Washington, UK Social Editor
Kitri Studio Dominique Chocolate Vinyl Coat, $, available at Kitri Studio
Massimo Dutti Nappa Leather Crossbody Bag
“Every bag I own is black, so I figured it was time to change that. I’m a big fan of Massimo Dutti for the brand’s simple and timeless pieces, and this bag is no different. It can be worn as a cross body, shoulder bag, or clutch, making it suitable for a wide number of outfits and occasions. I also think the gray-blue color is a nice addition to my closet — versatile enough without making too much of a statement.” — Kristine Romano, Associate Editor, Photo & Design
Massimo Dutti Nappa Leather Crossbody Bag with flap, $, available at Massimo Dutti
Diamond Store Lab Emerald Ring
“Who said you have to wait to get engaged to own something sparkly? This lab-grown emerald and diamond halo ring gives all the glimmer of luxury jewelry while being both consciously made and lower-priced. Plus, the gorgeous green makes even unmanicured hands look party-ready.” — Alicia Lansom, Associate Editor
The Diamond Store Astra 1.50ct Lab Emerald And Diamond Halo Shoulder Set, $, available at The Diamond Store
Colorful Standard Organic Oversized Shirt
“Colorful Standard has really mastered the basics. Their pre-washed organic cotton shirts are a dream to wear and come in a delightful array of colors. I particularly like the cedar brown as a fall staple for when I want to look a bit more put together.” — Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health and Living Editor
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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