The weather is getting a little cooler, the leaves are slowly turning from green to orange, and pumpkin spice lattes have reared their foam-topped heads. And that change signifies that it’s time to retire the linen pants, bikinis, and sundresses and trade them in for cardigans, coats, and all things cozy.
Don’t get me wrong, this author will happily live in a summer dress and strappy sandals, but nothing quite rivals the satisfaction of pulling on a chunky knit and stomping into fall with the right boots. The season practically demands it. Trench coats, textured knits that actually make layering feel like a look, and my personal fave: boots in every silhouette, shade, and excuse to buy another pair.
Of course, the transition is never graceful. One day you’re sweating through your shirt, the next you’re digging through your closet for something resembling outerwear. Which is why we’ve lined up the smartest layering essentials — cozy knits, statement jackets, and boots you’ll wear so much they’ll double as a second personality.
La Ligne Marin Striped Sweater
Cream-and-black stripes, wool-and-cashmere blend — the kind of classic sweater that flatters literally everyone. Chunky and knitted for warmth, it slips just as easily under a long coat with slacks as it does with jeans, carrying you straight through fall and well into winter.
To shop: Net-A-Porter.com, $325
Oversized Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater
A turtleneck is non-negotiable once the leaves start to turn. This one, cut from 100% cashmere, leans relaxed and just oversized enough to wear solo or layered over a white tank. It’s cozy, it’s polished, and it’s the fall staple your wardrobe’s been waiting for.
To shop: BananaRepublic.com, $250
Micro-Rib Scoop Neck Tank
A white tank is the wardrobe equivalent of good lighting — everything looks better with it. This one’s cut in a lightweight ribbed jersey that’s stretchy, form-fitting, and endlessly layerable. It’s the kind of classic you’ll wear on repeat (and wonder how you lived without.
To shop: Quince.com, $19.90
Dôen Knitted Cardigan
The Petra cardigan is fall’s quiet flex — it’s endlessly versatile. Toss it over denim with ballet flats for an off-duty outfit, or dress it up with tailored trousers. The deep burgundy shade adds a hint of color and is anything but basic.
To shop: Net-A-Porter.com, $330
Boyfriend Crew Sweater
Just like the classic tank top, a good quality sweater that can be worn on its own or as a layering piece is essential. Made with 100% cotton, this just-right oversized sweater is made for fall. It comes in nine different colors and can be worn with just about anything.
To shop: Quince.com, $39.90
Free People Blaze Pull on Boot
Fall is the season of boots — everything from rain boots to ankle booties — it’s the accessory that never goes out of style. The Free People Blaze Boots are where riding boots meet seriously cool weathered suede. They slip on with one pull and feature western accents with a small heel.
To shop: Revolve.com, $278
ARCH4 Fringed Cashmere Wrap
‘Tis the season of all things cozy, and what better to layer with than a knitted cashmere wrap that can double as an in-air blanket. It’s sophisticated while still providing extra warmth, making it perfect for jetting off and then walking around in style.
To shop: Net-A-Porter, $975
ARCH4 Oli & Eloise Cashmere Set
Yes, you can still wear a sweatshirt and sweats and be chic, especially a cashmere track set. We love to pair this upgraded tracksuit with a long trench or cashmere sweater around your shoulders.
To shop: Net-A-Porter, $1,325
Polo Ralph Lauren Ankle Sweatpants
We love our sweatpants; any excuse to be comfy is a yes, please. These Ralph Lauren joggers are a basic pair that goes with everything.
To shop: Shopbob.com, $148
Denim Shirt Jacket
It’s oversized and it’s cool, adding just the right amount of style to any basic outfit. Made with cotton denim, it gives a vintage look and it’s ideal for layering all year round.
To shop: BananaRepublic.com, $120
Milano-Stitch Cinched-Waist Cardigan
This cardigan is fabulous. Made with 100% lambswool with a fitted waist and loose sleeves, it takes a classic fall staple up a few fashionable notches. Tie it around a classic tee, just wear it as is, or pack it. You’re welcome.
To shop: JCrew.com, $99.50
Senta Oversized Bomber Jacket
We are obsessed with this seriously cool bomber jacket. It’s perfectly oversized which can easily go over a sweatshirt or a chunky knit sweater. It’s the kind of piece you will be reaching for all the time.
To shop: Net-A-Porter.com, $558
Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Crewneck Sweater
It’s comfy, oversized, cashmere, and packs well. This boyfriend crewneck is one of those staple pieces that is quietly sophisticated and can be dressed up or down.
To shop: Quince.com, $119.90
Tuckernuck Drew Short Trench Coat
You need a trench coat; this on-trend find takes a classic and makes it even more chic. The wide arms allow for the sweater to fit underneath easily, and pairs well with jeans and ballet flats or boots. It’s a classic you’ll have for years to come.
To shop: Tnuck.com, $168
Paneled Cotton-Velvet and Striped Silk Blazer
The conversation starter — a handmade blazer with panels of cotton, velvet, and striped details. This jacket gives a luxe vintage vibe, taking a functional piece and making it one you’ll love to wear all the time.
To shop: Net-A-Porter.com, $1,325
Relaxed Vintage Cotton T-Shirt
Truly the perfect oversized white t-shirt. Made with 100% cotton, its relaxed feel gives it a retro look that can be worn all on its own. It doubles as a go-to layering piece; you can wear it with literally everything, and it packs just as easily. Add to cart immediately.
To shop: BananaRepublic.com, $24.99
Dokotoo Quarter Zip
Fall’s cozy energy basically begs for a half-zip knit. Perfect for curling up by the fire or crunching through leaves, this Amazon one could pass for a higher-end find but without the price tag. It comes in a palette of autumn shades, and the breathable fabric makes it the ultimate layering piece. Just add a tank underneath and call it your flawless fall uniform.
To shop: Amazon.com, $32.99
Saodimallsu Women’s Oversized Cardigans
Cardigans are like martinis — one is never enough. This one earns its keep with gold accent buttons and a chunky knit that takes it from basic to stylish. Layer it a hundred ways, then thank Prime for delivering elegance at the click of a button.
To shop: Amazon.com, $39.98
Saodimallsu V Neck Sweater Vest
Call it the Blair Waldorf effect — a ribbed v-neck sweater vest that nails polished prep without trying too hard. Loose enough to wear solo, classic enough to layer over a turtleneck, and yes, it’s on Prime. Consider your city-chic uniform handled.
To shop: Amazon.com, $19.74
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