Of course, everyone needs a great boot for fall. But not all boots are created equal. Yes, the premise is to keep our feet warm and cozy as the temperatures continue to drop. I'd go a step further and say that they're the sartorial cherry on top of every outfit. Let's say you're wearing a timeless pair of jeans and a button-down shirt. The right pair of boots can turn a simple 'fit into an effortlessly cool moment.
So how does one go about finding the best boots? Well, you can certainly start here. Ahead, we've gathered the versatile pieces that will do wonders in your fall wardrobe, from wear-everywhere flat boots that are literally made for getting those steps in to height-adding heels that are still comfortable to wear.
And, yes, there are plenty of playful elements because life is too short for a boring collection of footwear, from python prints to patchwork designs. Your journey to finding the outfit-making boots to invest in this fall starts here. Oh, and everything is under $200. So the cost per wear makes them a no-brainer. Get to it and find the boots to carry you through the entire season ahead.
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While the Spring 2027 show was technically a preview of next year’s wardrobe, the core aesthetic (slouchy, lived-in, and artsy distressed vibes) is the exact mood we want to embody for fall right now.
You don’t have to wait six months to lean into the “well-loved” look. The runway showcased oversized, made-for-daily use constructions of Coach’s most coveted bag shapes.
To mirror that relaxed, I’m-not-trying-too-hard aesthetic, turn to currently viral icons like the Soft Empire Carryall and distressed Tabby. Crafted in supple leather and treated to expose the base color, these are the types of leather finishes that only get better with time. Similarly, a sumptuous suede bag will give that same lived-in effect the more you carry it. You’ll earn bonus points if you do a little DIY with runway-inspired, confetti-adorned creations.
Stay ahead of the fashion curve and shop the next about-to-blow-up handbag trend now.
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From my first-ever in-person tennis match to my first Honey Deuce cocktail, this year’s US Open brought a lot of exciting firsts for me. But before I even stepped into the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, I had to get into the sporty spirit with my outfits. Because if Naomi Osaka and Aryna Sabalenka were serving (both in looks and on the court) in hooded capes and chunky jewelry, I could dress up for the occasion too.
For spectators and fans, tennis outfits can be super fandom-forward (with some wearing their merch as soon as they purchase it on-site) or super Wimbledon-adjacent (yes, some even wear stilettos!). Everything goes, from preppy polo tops and sporty baseball caps to crisp white dresses and dazzling tennis bracelets. So taking inspo from Pinterest — and trying to channel even an ounce of Zendaya’s iconic Challengers press tour looks — I opted for matching sets, preppy accessories, and tennis ball-inspired greens for my two US Open days.
Ahead, see how I interpreted tennis style as a fashion writer attending the sporting event of the season. And get outfit inspiration if you’re going to watch parties or heading to Arthur Ashe Stadium yourself for the quarterfinals and beyond.
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Tennis Outfit Inspo: Sporty Sets
On my first match day, I was invited to attend with Offline by Aerie, so I put together an athleisure look for the occasion, and a matching set was the perfect starting point. I loved this longline sports bra, which felt more like a crop top, and flowy shorts, which gave tennis skirt vibes. But to shield myself from the blazing sun and sporadic rain showers, I added a cropped white button-down for an extra preppy layer.
On to accessorizing, I paired a baseball cap (in collaboration with Offline and the U.S. Tennis Association Foundation) with a compact crossbody bag, though Offline also offers a bag that looks like a tennis skirt, which would also be on-theme! I stuck with my trusty Nike Cortez sneakers in limited-edition gingham, but think any checkered or Mary Jane sneaker is a cool, modern take on a standard tennis shoe. And of course, I had to get some merch when I was in the stadium, buying an adorable tennis ball and racquet keychain that quickly became my bag charm of the day.
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Tennis Outfit Inspo: Go Green!
Ever since I dyed my hair copper, green has been my favorite color to wear, and it has quickly filled up my wardrobe. From Kelly green and emerald to lime and chartreuse, my closet was made for a tennis match. Inspired by the shades of tennis balls and courts, I went all out with a green striped skirt, bold sunglasses, crossbody bag, and printed silk scarf. And because I had the US Open during the day and a Havaianas party at night, I had to slip into Brazilian flag-colored flip-flops for it all.
For sporting events, crossbody bags are definitely the way to go, and a convertible one that can also be worn as a top-handle, shoulder, or belt bag is a major win. I cannot tell you how surprisingly versatile my chartreuse Kate Spade Duo bag actually is (or just how many compliments it got at the matches). To complement it, I tied my sold-out Old Navy x Christopher John Rogers polka dot-printed scarf around the strap. And if you want the same look, there are tons of green polka dot or tennis ball print alternatives online. And while I accessorized with sleek silver jewelry, including my Bulova watch, you just know I would’ve worn a green-faced watch if I owned one to go green to the max.
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As the air turns crisp, the seasonal wardrobe shift moves from a casual thought to an immediate priority. Resetting your wardrobe for autumn doesn’t require overhauling every hanger in your closet. Instead, it’s about strategically layering techniques and silhouette-driven essentials that immediately make everything you already own feel current.
This season’s narrative balances rugged durability with soft, romantic fluidity. From sculptural knitwear and statement fringe to subtle plaid details and high-contrast lace, these five key pieces serve as the ultimate blueprint to refresh your transitional rotation and refine your everyday look.
Look across the retail landscape and you’ll see this exact shift playing out across the retail landscape. For example, Anthropologie’s latest fall drop hits these notes perfectly, leaning heavily into tactile suedes, fluid sweater dresses, and elevated knits that prioritize tone and texture over fleeting trends. Think of it as the ultimate cheat code for playing with proportions, whether that means pairing a delicate slip dress with heavy boots or tossing a textured poncho over classic denim. Ultimately, it’s about building a wardrobe that makes you feel excited to get dressed, no matter if you have big plans or the calendar or just want to casually look like you tried.
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1. Check It Out
At this point, fall is pretty much synonymous with checkered prints. But you don’t have to go all out in head-to-toe plaid. A splash of the pattern will instantly add interest to all of your looks. Try layering a flannel top underneath a suede jacket or tying a shacket around your waist to break up a monochrome look. Want more of the classic checked print? A silky dress is the piece that will have you feeling like a style star.
Whether inspired by the cuddly-soft coat of deer or Dalmatians, animal prints are the moment. Upgrade your outerwear with a wildly cute fluffy design or elevate your accessories with a croc-embossed handbag or python boots. The best part: these pieces will do double duty in your closet, offering functionality and a ton of personality.
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4. Lace It Up
Frilly details like sweet lace are the perfect complement to your rugged boots and tough outerwear. Try styling a lace-trimmed camisole with cool jeans, a silky dress with a chunky knit, or a peekaboo skirt with your favorite plaid top.
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5. Fall For Fringe
One of my favorite tips for getting dressed to impress is to add a bit of interest with texture. Right now, nothing does it better than a playful fringe trim. This season, the tassels are anchoring suede jackets, sweaters, and dresses. Pick your player. Either way, you’ll instantly secure your spot as the best-dressed friend.
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