Life really does imitate art.
What do we mean? Well, as shopping editors and writers here at PEOPLE, our jobs require us to stay on top of trends, not necessarily implement them — but we do that, too. That’s why we’re sharing all of our tips and tricks on when and why we’re bringing popular items into our lives both on and off the clock.
Below, find all the trends and pieces we’re rallying behind right now, like Birkenstock clogs and rain jackets, plus some things we can’t leave behind fast enough.
PEOPLE Shopping Team’s Picks for Fall
- Zella Travel Lite Ruched Jacket, $119
- Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clog, $170
- Sneakers Swap: Madewell Beverley Mary Jane Flat, $138
- Matching Set: Free People Solar Cardigan & Pants Set, $128
- Everyday Denim: KanCan Hailey High-Rise ’90s Flare Jeans, $93
- Edikted Azalia Asymmetric Sheer Poncho, $38
- BP. Wide-Leg Fleece Pants, $40
- Coach Tea Rose Platform Pump, $195
- Levi’s Faux Leather Bomber Jacket, $150
- Steve Madden Rocky Boot, $160
Zella Travel Lite Ruched Jacket
Nordstrom
The Pinterest girls finally got me, and I officially want a rain jacket. It’s ironic, too, since I live in Arizona, where there’s very little rain. But still, I can’t stop thinking about how effortless one would look with some matching silk pants and a tassel necklace. It’s also more lightweight than a full-length trench coat. —Alyssa Grabinski, senior shopping writer
What’s “Out:” Oversized Leather Jackets
“It physically pains me to write this since I love them so much, but I think oversized leather jackets may be on their way out — at least for me. I’ve worn mine so many times that it’s becoming a little too overdone.”
Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clog
Nordstrom
“I keep seeing that this style of clog is going to take over the streets this fall (via the TikTok fashion girlies), and I’m choosing to believe that because they look so cute and comfortable. I’d style them with wide-leg jeans and a slightly oversized sweater á la Rory Gilmore.” —Madison Yauger, shopping editor
What’s “Out:” Chunky Boots
“While I love boots as much as the next gal, I have wider feet, and some of the more sleek styles are so tricky to get on and off. When I’ve been stomping all over N.Y.C. and finally get home at the end of the day, the last thing I want to do is fight my shoes.”
Edikted Azalia Asymmetric Sheer Poncho
Nordstrom
“I know better than to think that the late summer heat is going anywhere anytime soon. That’s why I’m trading my bulky layers for lightweight ponchos, like this one from Edikted. I like that its gauzy fabric can easily be dressed up for a day in the office or down for a night out, and I appreciate that it won’t leave me melting into a puddle of sweat while commuting.” —Averi Baudler, senior shopping writer
What’s “Out:” Oversized Cardigans
“While I know that I’ll never truly ditch my cozy oversized cardigans for good, I’m moving away from wearing them anywhere besides my apartment. The baggy fit doesn’t do much for my figure, and they’re pretty much impossible to layer under jackets or coats.”
Madewell Beverley Mary Jane Flat
Nordstrom
“My wardrobe has been lacking a shoe that’s more dressed up than sneakers, but not quite high-heel-level fancy. Now that ballet flats are finally back ‘in’ — a tall girl’s dream! — I plan to live in these versatile Mary Janes that have ‘no break-in period,’ according to shoppers.” —Maggie Horton, shopping writer
What’s “Out:” Bulky Shoes
“I’m saying goodbye to bulky sneakers like my once tried-and-true basketball-inspired shoes. While I’ll still hold on to sporty sneakers that are comfortable to walk in, I’ll be reaching for slimmer styles like Vejas, Adidas Gazelles, or ballet flats for a polished look.”
KanCan Hailey High-Rise ’90s Flare Jeans
Nordstrom
“This fall I’m planning to stock up on a couple of pairs of flared jeans. I love the way a higher rise defines the waist, while the wider leg feels easy to wear. They can pair with sneakers during the day or heels at night, and they give me the perfect balance of comfort and confidence.” —Toni Sutton, shopping writer
What’s “Out:” Skinny Jeans
“It’s not that I dislike skinny jeans, but I’ve realized I haven’t touched the four pairs in my closet for almost a year. I feel that flare jeans feel a bit fresher and more versatile — so, I plan to round out my closet with a few different kinds and let the skinny jeans take a well-earned break.”
Free People Solar Cardigan & Pants Set
Nordstrom
“I’ve got more than enough casual matching sweats, so now I’m stocking up on knitwear sets that feel a little more put-together. The ones I’m into are textured and a bit more fitted, but still effortless enough to toss on and make it to school drop-off before the tardy bell rings.” — Jeaneen Russell, shopping writer
What’s “Out:” Overly Casual Joggers
“It’s time to retire my baggy joggers with the elastic hems. I value comfort, but this style now feels a little too sloppy for everyday wear. Straight-leg and flare styles are just as comfy, but the cleaner lines make me at least feel (and look) like I made some sort of effort to look pulled together.”
Levi’s Faux Leather Bomber Jacket
Nordstrom
“With its faux leather fabric and zippered cuffs, this Levi’s bomber jacket is the perfect in-between for days when a denim jacket feels too casual and a coat is too heavy. Plus, it will add edginess when styled with jeans and sneakers or thrown over a dress. And the espresso hue is a fun switch-up from classic black.” —Nicol Natale, shopping writer
What’s “Out:” Denim Jackets
“My denim jacket collected dust in my closet all summer, and I’ve come to the realization that I’ve graduated from this style. I’m now gravitating toward sleeker layers like bombers, suede coats, and chunky cardigans instead. The only exception is a fringe-style denim jacket — I can’t get enough of cowboy core.”
BP. Wide-Leg Fleece Pants
Nordstrom
“I love a wide-leg pair of sweatpants, as they feel slightly more like ‘real’ pants compared to a style that’s too tight. They’re great to wear on the days I’m working from home, but they are also my go-to when traveling, as I’m all about comfort. Plus, they pair well with sneakers and Ugg boots, my shoes of choice once fall hits.” —Jennifer Maldonado, associate editorial shopping director
What’s “Out:” Leggings
“I’ve never been a fan of how tight leggings feel on my body, and I can only ever wear something oversized and super baggy on top to counteract the skin-like look of leggings. I’m strictly sticking to looser-fitting styles now for when I want to be truly comfy.”
Coach Tea Rose Platform Pump
Nordstrom
“I’m hyperfixated on finding the perfect Mary Jane heels. I already own a pair, but they’re from my early 20s (when I was often stepping out in 5-inch tall platforms), and these days, I need a shoe with a more manageable height. I love the chunky platform on these Coach heels, along with the square toe and flower-shaped buckle closure. I’m imagining these with a pleated skirt and white tank or T-shirt, similar to Anne Hathaway’s recent look.” —Izzy Baskette, shopping writer
What’s “Out:” Animal Print
“Cheetah and leopard print have become so oversaturated for me. Anything in my closet that I might have purchased in the name of chasing this trend has now been donated or sold. Looking forward to more timeless prints in the coming months, like plaid and stripes.”
Steve Madden Rocky Boot
Nordstrom
“Moto boots had a moment last fall, and I’m confident the metal-clad style will be alive and well this year. I think these are such a fun way to balance out a slew of looks, including mini and midi-length dresses, basic tees and jeans ensembles, and even more frilly items in my closet. The cognac color is also such a yummy, warm hue.” —Ali Faccenda, associate editor
What’s “Out:” Cowboy Boots
“While I love a fun Western-inspired boot, they’ve certainly had their moment in the sun. Although I’ll always be a fan of the pointed-toe style, if I do incorporate them into my autumnal outfits, it’ll be styled under a pair of flare jeans where they’re more understated.”
