If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

We Asked 10 Stylists What Fall Fashion Items to Buy This Year, and Their 15 Picks Are All Under $50

Shop chunky loafers, oversized turtleneck sweaters, leather totes, and more.

Stylist-approved fall capsule wardrobe tout
Photo:

Real Simple / Madison Woiten

The arrival of a new season also comes with the realization that you have plenty of holes to fill in your seasonal wardrobe. A well-curated fall capsule wardrobe will serve as a stylish and practical foundation for your outfits, giving you the flexibility to create a variety of looks, whether you're dressing for a cozy evening or a rainy day.

So, we turned to 10 fashion experts for help with figuring out the most versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched—all under $50. From a classic chunky loafer to a chic-yet-timeless tweed blazer, these finds are equal parts practical and aesthetically pleasing. Scroll down to see stylist-approved wardrobe essentials you can repurpose throughout the season.

Stylist-Approved Fall Capsule Wardrobe Essentials

Dream Pairs Chunky Loafers

Amazon DREAM PAIRS Women's Chunky Loafers

Amazon

Orig. $43 $34 at Amazon

"Having a great comfortable go-to shoe for fall eliminates all of that morning how-do-I-coordinate-a-great-outfit confusion," Emmy award-winning designer, Brenda Cooper, tells Real Simple. "Plus, it's a timesaver, so you can get out the door in a fraction of the time feeling confident, comfortable, and put together. With so many ways to coordinate this classic and modern shoe for a spectacular look, try it with a plain box pleated skirt, or a plaid skirt, a turtleneck, and a great blazer." She suggests going for a black patent leather shoe for “a little more pizazz or a black and white spectator loafer for a more retro look."

Sidefeel Wide Leg Jeans

Amazon Sidefeel Women's Wide Leg Jeans High Waisted Stretchy Straight Leg Jeans Buttoned Loose Denim Pants with Pocket

Amazon

According to Cooper, you can't go wrong with a pair of wide-leg pants in your closet this coming season. She prefers them because they're "comfortable and a great reprieve from tight, form-fitting clothes like skinny jeans or leggings. They add both casual and dressy elegance to any outfit.” She suggests wearing them with anything from white sneakers “to look hip and casual,” or high-heeled pumps for a more “sexy and elegant” look. “I lived in them in the 1990s and am thrilled they are back, as they have become a staple for me today and for the unforeseeable future!"

Hoxis Oversize Vegan Leather Tote

Amazon HOXIS Oversize Vegan Leather Tote

Amazon

Orig. $36 $29 at Amazon

It's time to bring attention to your accessories. Amy Acton, expert stylist and CEO of Acton Style Group, says that "a tote bag in your fall capsule wardrobe is like pumpkin spice for your latte —it just makes everything better! Not only is it the perfect blend of style and functionality, but it's also your trusty sidekick, ready to carry all the essentials you need for those crisp autumn days. From cozy scarves to unexpected farmer's market finds, this bag will never judge you for overpacking."

Happy Sailed Tweed Blazer

Amazon Happy Sailed Womens Tweed Blazers

Amazon

Orig. $55 $39 at Amazon

Acton also emphasizes the significance of your outer layers. "A tweed blazer in a rich fall color isn't just an article of clothing. It's your ticket to looking effortlessly polished. Whether you're headed to the office or meeting friends for brunch, this blazer instantly elevates your outfit from 'just woke up' to 'I have my life together (mostly).' Plus, tweed has that timeless charm. Throw it over jeans, a dress, or even joggers, and you've got yourself a look that's equal parts smart and stylish."

Ykr Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater

Amazon YKR Women's Turtleneck Sweater

Amazon

Orig. $36 $31 at Amazon

If it were up to personal stylist Bobbi Schwartz, she'd start building every fall capsule wardrobe with a loose-fitting turtleneck sweater. "Worn with the collar flipped up, it creates a chic, high-neck look—one of this season's hottest trends," she asserts. "For a look that is universally flattering, you may want to opt for a tunic-length silhouette. As you build your casual capsule wardrobe, the key to success lies in selecting simple, understated pieces like this. For fall, warmer neutrals bring a sense of richness to your outfits."

Dream Pairs Ankle Booties

Amazon DREAM PAIRS Women's Ankle Boots

Amazon

Orig. $43 $33 at Amazon

Don't forget a trusty pair of ankle boots. "Pointed toes are timeless, undeniably sexier and more chic than their round-toed counterparts," Schwartz explains. "Additionally, suede adds a richness to your look that smooth leather just can't match. Pairing a pointed toe with the drape and puddling of wide-leg jeans creates a striking look that will have people asking about your style all day long."

Merokeety Oversized Crewneck Sweater

Amazon MEROKEETY Women's 2024 Fall Casual Crew Neck

Amazon

Orig. $59 $31 at Amazon

"This versatile top comes in different colors and patterns, so there's something for every taste," raves James Firestein, founder of OpenLuxury and a luxury designer expert. "It's made from a soft, stretchy material that drapes nicely over your figure. I love pairing it with leggings or skinny jeans and boots for a casual daytime outfit. But you can also dress it up with heels and statement jewelry for a night out. Plus, it's under $50, which is a steal for a top you'll wear on repeat all season."

Kate Kasin Faux Leather Wrap Midi Skirt

Amazon Kate Kasin Women's Faux Leather High Waist Wrap Knit Bodycon Midi Skirt

Amazon

Orig. $36 $33 at Amazon

This season is all about texture, and for that reason, fashion designer Juanita Carmet says you need to add a leather skirt to your fall repertoire. "One of the things I really love about the liquid skirt trend this year is that fall's selection of leatherwear is far more fluid in form, allowing for innovative designs. The smooth material is very flexible, making it both comfortable and stylish. This leather skirt trend works equally well with casual looks like an oversized sweater or more put-together outfits like a long-sleeved, button-down blouse."

Cunlin Satin Blouse

Amazon CUNLIN Womens Soft Satin Silk Button Down

Amazon

Orig. $32 $27 at Amazon

Say hello to one of your most versatile pieces. "Here's a luxe take on the classic white button-down shirt that is oh-so-popular in the summer," notes stylist Celeste Renee. "The slightly weightier fabric adds a touch of sophistication and is ideal for cooler fall weather. Also ideal? The neutral color and the flexibility of this top. It can be dressed up (think a maxi skirt and slingback heels) or down (think jeans and loafers). All in all, it's a fall staple."

Merokeety Sherling Jacket

Amazon MEROKEETY Women's 2024 Winter Long Sleeve Button Sherpa Jacket

Amazon

Orig. $55 $35 at Amazon

"Ready to play with textures this autumn?" Renee asks. "A shearling jacket adds a cozy, luxurious element to your fall wardrobe. The soft, fluffy lining provides warmth while adding depth and interest to your outfits. Since long black coats dominate in cooler months, embrace a cropped neutral to shake things up."

Nasperee Long-Sleeve Scoop-Neck Shirt

Amazon Nasperee Women Long Sleeve Crew Neck

Amazon

Author and fashion expert Dawn Del Russo insists on building up your wardrobe basics first. "Try a minimalist trend and add a long-sleeved black top to your closet this fall," she recommends. "It is the perfect foundation piece for countless outfits. Layer it under blazers, sweaters, or jackets for added warmth and style, or wear it alone with denim for a night out. Ivory-tailored pants look sleek paired with this top."

Mgwdt Oxford Shirt

Amazon MGWDT Button Down Shirt

Amazon

"A blue-striped button-down blouse is a versatile piece that can transition easily from casual to more structured," Del Russo adds. "Its classic design makes it a timeless addition to any capsule wardrobe. Layer it over a turtleneck for added warmth during colder months. Or, dress it up with tailored black trousers for a work-appropriate look. You can create a casual, chic ensemble by pairing it with jeans and ankle boots. Try gold or silver accessories to change the overall style of your outfits."

MangoPop Mock Turtle Neck Bodysuit

Amazon MANGOPOP Women's Mock Turtle Neck

Amazon

Orig. $25 $20 at Amazon

"These bodysuits are perfect for layering in transitional weather," personal stylist Jaquelyn Wahidi states. "Pick up the black, white, and burgundy shades. They can be layered under denim dresses, blazers, and more. I love using these to provide a barrier between my sensitive skin and an itchy sweater. Do you have an amazing wool or cashmere knit you just haven't been able to tolerate wearing?” She says that simply adding one of these underneath will provide both “visual interest and functional comfort."

Amazon Essentials Block-Heel Mule

Amazon Essentials Women's Block Heel Mule

Amazon

You should also consider swapping out your sandals for a chunky mule with some texture. Rowder says that these open-toe block-heel shoes are “a fantastic choice for fall. They provide more coverage than a typical sandal, making them ideal for transitioning into cooler weather, while the open-toe design keeps them breathable and comfortable. The block heel adds just the right amount of height, giving you a flattering lift, yet it’s sturdy enough to walk in all day without discomfort."

PrettyGarden Classic Knit Cardigan

Amazon PRETTYGARDEN Women's Knit Cardigan

Amazon

Orig. $45 $36 at Amazon

Rowder remains steadfast on the point that you should be stocking up on a trusty cardigan you'll reach for again and again. "I love this one because it gives the comfort of your favorite sweater while also looking elevated and polished enough to wear to the office," she explains. "By throwing this on over a simple T-shirt or bodysuit, you will take your look up about five notches!"

Was this page helpful?

Related Articles