Fall fashion is exciting because it sets up your wardrobe for the entire year. Light layers can be worn just as easily in the spring, chunky knits in the winter and flowy tops in the warmer months. Because of this, it is hard to know where to start and when to stop adding items to your cart. Most of it boils down to budget, which is why we have tapped our editorial team this month to show you how to shop for the new season whether you are a post-grad in her first job or a seasoned professional.
By Angela Bobo
Winn Duvall, Copy Editor
Budget: $100
As someone just starting out in the working world, I try to focus on two things when shopping: versatile items that can be repurposed for off-days and workwear basics with elements that make them feel more fun and youthful. I gravitate toward black, white and gray, but I wanted to take advantage of rich fall color as much as possible.
1. I usually wear a watch to the office, but a structural bangle like this one is perfect when I want to mix up a more understated outfit.
Around the Bend Gold Bracelet, $14; lulus.com
2. The shape of this skirt is different than your basic pencil silhouette, and the vibrant orange color can work well in different seasons.
Pencil Skirt with Wrap (Blood orange), $36.24; us.asos.com
3. A striped shirt is always a must-have. This one can go with business casual skirts or pants or could easily be dressed down with jeans for the weekend.
Jersey Top, $9.99; hm.com
4. Scarves play perfectly into the cozy aesthetic of the season, and this one is an easy way to add some color to an outfit.
Women’s Herringbone Striped Scarves, $16.94; oldnavy.com
5. I live in cardigans year-round, so this pick was a no-brainer for me. The leather accents make it interesting, and the length is perfect fall comfort.
Knit Cardigan (Black/leather imitation), $17.95; hm.com
Amount remaining: $4.88
Stefanie Gans, Dining Editor & Restaurant Critic
Budget: $500
While most people focus on the fact that as a restaurant critic I eat for a living, I actually spend a lot of time in the office writing and editing—and in the car driving all over Virginia for meals. I need outfits that are comfortable enough to write in and dressy enough for dinner.
1. I try to find the line between really comfortable and office- and restaurant-appropriate, and with the right shoes, this combines all three.
Flat Booties with Tassel, $49.90; zara.com
2. This feels very classroom appropriate to me. Is it possible to miss back-to-school shopping?
Women’s Long Sleeve Dress in Black and White, $49.90; uniqlo.com
3. I have a thing for stirrups. Don’t judge me.
Rib Knit Stirrup Leggings, $38; nordstrom.com
4. I love big, obnoxious rings, but for everyday wear, I need to be able to type with it, too.
alexis bittar orbital ring, $150; shopbop.com
5. I don’t leave the house without nail polish. Ever.
Butter London Nail Lacquer in blagger, $15; ulta.com
6. I dine out almost every night and need to keep track of receipts, so it helps to have a separate wallet just for eating expenses.
Seamless Long Wallet, $90; needsupply.com
7. I will wear this every day—and to bed, too.
Long Skirt with Slits in Green, $39.99; zara.com
Amount remaining: $67.21
Lynn Norusis, Managing Editor
Budget: $1,000
Each season I get a glimpse of the trends in fashion magazines and set a goal of being more put together both in and out of the office. Then life hits. This season I’m keeping in mind life’s juggling act and going for pieces that are both comfortable and stylish while still being realistic with my lifestyle.
Weekends, I’m constantly running around from soccer field to lacrosse field to kid’s birthday party, so I need shoes that are comfortable and stylish that pair great with jeans and a moto jacket, and I have to be OK with them getting a little dirt on them. These Vans high-tops will be key.
Vans Sk8-Hi Slim Zip, $80; Needsupply.com
Paired with knee-high boots, ankle boots, heels or flats, this leather skirt is a rich, warm color and a fantastic neutral for any fall outfit.
Leather skirt, $189 zara.com
Some days it’s nice to pick one thing out of your closet and be done. This jumpsuit fits that bill and gives a bit of flair with the sleeves and neckline made of ribbons.
Black Halo Justyne Jumpsuit, $390; shopbop.com
I carry way too much in my purse. This season, I’m purging and going for the minimalist look in a deep olive green color.
Rebecca Minkoff Small Astor Saddle Bag, $225; rebeccaminkoff.com
Each season I indulge in a new statement ring. This one molds modern minimalism with a bit of pop that I’ll be able to wear with any outfit.
Terra Preta Ring, $78; anthropologie.com
I am always cold, so the necessity to have something to throw over my shoulders or across my lap while at work is always there. This scarf is large enough to act as a blanket but light enough to be worn as a scarf. The colored pattern also adds style, making it not look like an afterthought.
Multicolour print soft scarf, $25.99; zara.com
Amount remaining: $12.10
(September 2015)
