A Stylista's Guide to Must Have Fashion for the Fall

It's fall, y'all! That means it's time to enjoy the gorgeous changing leaves, sip some hot apple cider, and start updating your wardrobe with some fall fashion staples.

Fashionistas everywhere get excited for the fall season for good reason. Fall is the time to create layered, functional looks that'll keep you warm and looking fabulous. Here are some of our picks for the ultimate fall fashion must-haves.

Classic Shift Dress

A classic shift dress is a piece that will serve you well all year round. It's a universally flattering shape that pairs well with tons of different accessories. It has the potential to be the foundation for so many different outfits, from a dinner date ensemble to a casual brunch look.

For fall, add layers to your shift dress to stay nice and warm. You can pair it with a cardigan, opaque tights or thicker, cozy cotton leggings, and tall leather boots. Or you can give your look a little edge with a great leather jacket.

While a solid color shift dress will give you infinite options to mix and match, you can also opt for eye-catching fabrics and patterns. Plaid, gingham, lace, and velvet are all stylish choices for autumn.

Perfect Denim

A great pair of jeans is also a year-round favorite, but fall is undisputedly the season for denim to really take center stage. From slouchy boyfriend jeans to classic skinnies and everything in between, find your favorite jeans and pair them with anything from a chunky sweater to a vintage tee for instant laidback cool.

Denim jackets are also having a particular moment this fall. While they've always been a seasonal standard, they're having a particular resurgence with all the '80s and '90s nostalgia going around.

A classic, mid-wash blue denim jacket pairs with everything from a flowy dress to a pair of jeans. If you're squeamish about rocking double denim, just make sure your jeans and jacket are different colors or washes to keep your outfit from looking too matchy.

Knit Sweaters

Great southern fall fashion is more about embracing classic styles than following the latest trends. Knit sweaters are the epitome of classic fall style. From cozy, chunky knits to slim crews, you can't go wrong by pairing a chic sweater with a pair of jeans and ankle boots.

A classic solid turtleneck transitions from day to night with ease. Slim and simple crew neck sweaters are the perfect thing to layer under dresses and vests. Preppy styles like argyle and stripes are getting major attention this fall season.

Leather Jackets

Leather jackets will always be cool. Edgy moto jackets, laidback bombers, and chic structured styles are all perfect for fall weather. These versatile pieces pair just as well with jeans and a tee as they do with a dress and heels.

While you can't go wrong with a leather jacket in classic black or brown, don't be afraid to mix things up a bit. You can opt for a jacket in an unexpected color, such as deep red, white, or even a pastel hue for a more feminine take.

Boots

No fall fashion list would be complete without mentioning the beloved fall boot. From classic ankle boots to statement-making over-the-knee styles, fall is the time to embrace hardy, structured footwear.

For wearing out and about, opt for boots with a chunky heel. This will give you plenty of support and traction when walking through crunchy leaves and unfortunate fall mud.

Ankle Boots

Ankle boots are the perfect complement to jeans and skirts of all lengths. Leather and suede in neutral colors are the most popular style of ankle boot, but this fall is seeing some bold trends. Animal skins and prints, western styles, and bright white ankle boots are all in.

Tall Boots

Mid-calf, knee-high, and even over-the-knee boots go perfectly with mini and midi skirts and dresses. They're also great for spicing up a pair of skinny jeans.

Scarves

Scarves are the ultimate fashionable and functional autumn accessory. They add visual interest to any outfit while keeping you nice and cozy.

You can't go wrong with a classic cashmere scarf as a subtle seasonal accent. For a little pop of color, go with an infinity scarf in a bright color or bold pattern. An oversized blanket scarf is a great way to make a big style statement and stay extra warm.

Cozy Flannel

Is it even fall without flannel? Flannel clothing is so cozy and laidback, perfect for fall weekends and football games. While flannel is a natural match for your favorite jeans and ankle boots, you can dress up your flannel, too.

Flannel button-up shirts are great for layering with skirts and dresses. For instance, you can pair a flowy maxi skirt with a flannel button-up knotted at the waist to enhance the shape. Slip a statement necklace under the collar for added glam.

Flannel isn't just reserved for shirts, either. Flannel skirts are a cute and feminine way to rock this seasonal staple. Pair them with solid-color tights, knee-high boots, and a sweater for a fun and flirty fall look.

Sherpa Outwear

Sherpa fleece outerwear is the pinnacle of cozy, casual style. It's the perfect thing for hanging out outdoors on a crisp fall day. It's chic and outdoorsy all at once.

And not only is sherpa super warm and cute, but it's also trending in popularity right now. Sherpa jackets, pullovers, and vests are all the rage this fall season.

All Your Fall Fashion Must-Haves and More

Fall is all about embracing change. The weather is changing, the leaves are changing, and it's time to add some fall fashion must-haves to your closet. Using the guidelines offered above, you can easily build a new fall wardrobe that perfectly captures your unique personality and lifestyle.

Looking for more style tips and outfit ideas? Check out more fashion articles from our blog.