15 NYC Fall Fashion Essentials: Travel Writer Style Picks

With New York Fashion Week in full swing, the city sidewalks feel like a live runway. Everywhere I turn, someone’s debuting a new season trend—from oversized plaid blazers to suede ballet flats and flowy silk pants. It’s impossible not to feel inspired when walking around the city, but living here for the past two years has also taught me that the best fall fashion isn’t just about keeping up with trends. It’s about finding pieces that can actually keep up with me.

Between long walks, crowded subway rides, and dinners that run late into the night, I need clothes that are stylish, but also versatile enough to handle the pace of city life—and smart enough to pack for trips, too. This season, that means suede trousers that look far more expensive than they are, comfy sneakers that can get me miles without a blister, and a wrinkle-resistant trench coat that instantly pulls any outfit together. Here are the pieces already in my rotation (or waiting in my cart), starting at just $29.

Madewell Straight-hem Shirt

I’ve been reaching for patterned shirts lately, and this striped poplin top from Madewell is going to become my favorite way to add a little visual interest to layered fall outfits. It’s incredibly versatile—you can wear it with khakis, dark denim, or black trousers, depending on the occasion. Since it’s lightweight, the pants transition beautifully from summer into fall without feeling too heavy. Add chunky gold jewelry, a belt, and bootcut jeans, and suddenly you have a polished look that feels effortless. Plus, it’s now up to 29 percent off for certain colorways.

Banana Republic Factory Wide-leg Suede Pants

When I spotted these wide-leg suede pants for just $60, I couldn’t add them to my cart fast enough. They combine the rich suede trend with a flattering high-rise cut and feel like a chic alternative to jeans this season. I love how boho-chic they look styled with leather boots and a knit, but you can also wear them with a sharp blazer for something more elevated. The best part? They look like a designer piece (think Sézane or Veronica Beard) without the price tag.

Quince Clog Mule

Clogs have officially taken over my fall Pinterest board—they’re comfortable, easy to wear, and have that effortlessly cool vibe I’ve been chasing. This pair from Quince will quickly become my go-to, thanks to the espresso-brown shade and oversized gold buckle that gives them just enough edge. You can wear them with everything from jeans to dresses, and even layered socks for a little extra personality. They’re also way more affordable than the Birkenstock or 3Sixteen versions, (both over double the price), which makes them an even bigger win.

Aritzia Barkley Lightweight Workwear Jacket

I was searching for a lightweight jacket that didn’t feel boring, and this one from Aritzia checks every box. The olive green is a perfect fall neutral, while the corduroy collar and gold hardware make it look far more luxe than your average utility jacket. Toss it on for everything from grocery runs to Sunday brunch, and it will instantly make your outfits feel pulled together without trying too hard.

Nordstrom The Lennox Wide-leg Trousers

Every fall capsule wardrobe needs a reliable pair of trousers, and the Nordstrom Lennox Wide-leg Pants are about to become mine. They’re sleek enough for the office, but the comfort level means I can also wear them at the airport with sneakers and a crewneck. On the contrary, for date nights, I’ll style them with a blouse and kitten heels. They’re one of those pieces you’ll start several outfits around, which is the sign of a true staple. 

Reebok Classic AZ Sneakers

These Reebok Classic AZ Sneakers have quickly become my everyday sneakers—I’ve walked countless NYC miles in them without getting a single blister. The green adds just enough personality while still working as a neutral, which makes them perfect for fall outfits. I’ve worn them with track pants for a park walk, and I’ve also paired them with trousers and a trench coat to give my look a playful twist. They’re ideal for city exploring and easy to pack for travel, too.

Quince Stretch Crepe Trench Coat

A trench coat is an autumn essential, and this Quince version feels like such a find. The crepe fabric is wrinkle-resistant (a lifesaver when packing for trips), and the wrap design makes it stand out from more traditional trenches. I can’t wait to throw it over everything from sweat sets to jeans and a sweater to quickly revive any outfit. 

Hoxis Hobo Bag

Living in New York means I need a bag that can hold everything I need for a full day on the go, and this $29 hobo tote bag is currently in my cart. It will easily fit my laptop, charger, book, headphones, and anything else I toss in as I run out the door. It’ll be so easy to sling over my shoulder for the subway, coffee shop work sessions, or even weekend trips—it’s the kind of throw-it-all-in bag that looks good while keeping up with me.

The Gap CashSoft Crop Cardigan

I’m deep in my crimson red era, so this Gap cardigan was the perfect addition. The color is rich and bold, but somehow still goes with everything—I’ve already planned out the outfits in my head. I can throw it over a black dress, layer it with jeans and a tee, and pair it with a mini skirt and tall boots. It’s cozy, flattering, and instantly makes my outfit look more styled. 

Sam Edelman Alie Ballet Flats

Another suede find I’ve gotten my hands on are these Sam Edelman Ballet Flats. The bow keeps them sweet, the brown suede makes them sophisticated, and the price feels fair compared to so many designer versions. They’re so easy to style—you can wear them casually with jeans and a trench or go full preppy with a plaid mini dress, which makes them an instant staple for me.

J.Crew Cosmo Pants

Silk pants have been at the top of my shopping wish list, and these J.Crew ones are exactly what I’ve been looking for. They’re soft and flowy enough to wear on a plane, but luxe enough to wear straight to dinner. Pair them with a tee and sneakers for day, and with a bodysuit and heels for a night out. They’re basically pajama-level comfort disguised as chic trousers—which is exactly what I need in my life.

Ruiee Mid-calf Boots

I see mid-calf boots are everywhere in the city as I’m walking down the street, and I finally grabbed this pair from Amazon. They hit that sweet spot between ankle and knee, and the slightly slouchy, western-inspired vibe makes them feel current. Plus, the memory foam insoles make them surprisingly comfortable for long days walking in the city. They’re the kind of boots that make even a simple jeans-and-sweater outfit look intentional.

Kohl’s Juniors’ SO Contrast Piping Pull-on Trousers

I’m fully leaning into the sporty track pant trend, and this pair has been my go-to. They’re ridiculously comfortable, but the contrast piping makes them look intentional, not like I rolled out of bed. I’ve worn them with sneakers and a crewneck for travel days, and I’ve also dressed them up with kitten heels and a blouse when I wanted that “sporty chic” balance. They’re versatile, fun, and way more stylish than sweatpants.

Mango Double-breasted Jacket

Plaid in fall is nothing new, but this Mango blazer makes it feel fresh. The micro-print is subtle, but adds just enough texture to break up my usual neutrals, and I love how it instantly sharpens a pair of jeans and a tee. You can also wear it belted over a dress with tall boots, and it will look like something straight out of a street style photo. It’s polished, but playful—exactly how I like my fall layers.

Madewell Studded Western Belt 

This studded Madewell belt has become my not-so-secret weapon for making basics look cooler. The suede gives it that fall feel, the studs add just enough edge, and the western vibe makes it feel on-trend without being over the top. Use it to cinch blazers, break up all-black looks, and add personality to jeans. It’s proof that sometimes the accessory really does make the outfit.

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