Fall Fashion Essentials

Though deservedly so, shopping gets a bad rap in the financial world of things as it relates to your wallet. Reframing this fun, self-care activity by buying dependable basics and going about it with a plan can combat the fund-draining downside of something we all love so much. Fall is the perfect season to re-vamp your closet and change up your shopping game. See below a little fall-friendly guide that can give you the purchase strategy you need to look cute and cut down on expenses these coming months. Let’s try to do both. 

Vest – An underrated outerwear item, vests are the perfect pieces to throw on in those in-between temperature days that Virginia students know so well. I’ll often pair an oversized vest with a long sleeve for milder days or with a sweatshirt on days when I need the extra warmth. This style looks great with jeans, leggings, sweats and can make your vibe either relaxed or more refined. The quilted puffer style is cute, but also explore and maybe avail yourself of a sherpa vest that might be a bit cozier. 

Uggs – As we all know, uggs are making a come back. I scoffed at the idea a couple of years ago since it reminded me all too vividly of my pairing them with leggings while drinking a Starbucks frappucino in middle school. But this year, I’m bringing that nostalgic style back into my life with a more refined pumplin cream cold brew in my hand. You could go for slipper style, or the boots route. I have the Ugg Minis and love to throw them on for class. You could even pair them with some cute socks and wear shorts. Options are endless. 

Claw Clip – I’m honestly not sure how fall-related this item inherently is. But, I’m thinking brown, orange, and green colored hair accessories that will give your vibe added autumn tones. Keep crazy hair at bay with half up half down looks or more classically tie all your hair up with this claw clip item. You’ll look chic while also still appearing effortless. Emi Jay has really good quality ones that won’t break, but they’re definitely an investment. 

New Balance Sneakers – When I think fall, I think school, academia, afternoons at the library, or walking to class amidst fallen leaves. New Balances fit perfectly within that picture. Paired with some blue mom jeans or with a more athletic outfit, New Balances can give you the perfect sporty, clean, and pristine aesthetic. 

Bomber Jacket – We’ve seen the puffer jacket trend and the jean jacket craze. Those definitely could still have a place in your fall wardrobe, but another style that could be rising on the fashion horizon are bomber jackets. Cool girls wear bomber jackets. Slipping one on atop black biker shorts and a tank or layering with it on cooler days will be sure to make you stand out and stay warm. I just bought a black one from Aritzia, and with its orange interior, it definitely gives some spooky energy. You could alternatively opt for a color like green to tune into more of the military-like look. 

Lululemon Define Jacket – If you have one, fulfill your suburban, soccer mom fantasy (while still being a girl boss) with this purchase. It will fit snugly to your body, giving your fit an athletic and flattering edge. Black is a cool shade. It literally feels like butter on your body. 

Cozy Matching PJ set – It only seems right to end this list with something to wear to end your day and drift off into some cozy dreams. Treat yourself to a cotton, luxurious, long sleeve PJ set that might make it hard to peel yourself out of bed in the morning but that will be sure to top off the fall energy your looks have been cultivating all day. Target and Walmart always have affordable options that feel like a million bucks when you’re nestled under your cozy sheets.