Six fall staples you might already have in your closet

By Elizabeth Elizalde

It’s September – the leaves are changing colors, the crisp air is rolling in and we’re excited to put on our sweaters. 

Fall fashion is already here. It’s the best time to layer warm, rich colors and experiment with different textures. Who says you can't wear a faux fur coat over a tracksuit? Anything goes. 

When we think of autumn, suede chocolate-colored boots, plaid, chunky sweaters and faux-fur automatically come to mind. 

Most of these fall staples are already in our closets, so no need to break the bank buying these basics. 

Here are six pieces that you can dress up or down this fall. 

1. A plaid or tartan shirt

You likely have one buried in a drawer. Check prints, tartan, and gingham appeared across countless Paris Fashion Week collections this season.

Chloé's fall 2026 collection featured rustic plaid and checkered prairie skirts styled with romantic bohemian layers. Whether you’re going for a bohemian or punk/rock look, plaid will be your best friend. 

2. A basic blazer

A chic blazer is the cherry on top of any outfit. At Saint Laurent’s fall/winter 2026 collection, sharp shoulders and beautifully tailored double-breasted suits were on full display.

The blazer you rarely wore has now become relevant – just pair it with a sleek skirt or trousers, and power pumps.

3. A white button-down

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Just like a classic blazer, you can’t go wrong with a crisp white button-down shirt. It's the connective layering piece under the plaid, blazers, and structured tailoring that's dominating the season. 

4. Argyle sweaters

Argyle has always been a major fall trend that gives you a preppy look. Wear an argyle sweater or vest over a crisp button-down shirt. Match your argyle knitwear with relaxed or wide-leg jeans. 

5. A denim or utility jacket

If you own anything denim, particularly a jacket, then you’ll instantly ooze coolness. Denim on denim will make you look even cooler.

A utility jacket will give you that grungy edge, and you can pair both styles with leather boots, a chunky sweater and a suede bag. 

6. A faux-fur-trimmed coat or scarf 

From vintage coats to faux-fur details on collars and trims —  faux fur is back. I cannot get over the Gucci faux-fur tiger print “La Bomba” coat that Dua Lipa sported earlier this year.

For a more affordable approach, look no further than Apparis or Revolve for a chic faux-fur coat.