Fall Fashion 2022
Sep 2, 2021

I Live in the South But Dress Like I Live in L.A.—Here's My Fall Shopping List

by Allyson Payer

As someone who's moved from Louisiana to Pittsburgh to NYC to L.A. and back to the South (North Carolina this time), I have a lot of thoughts about the differences in how people around the country dress. I think I could even write a thesis on it. But for now, I'll focus on the way that I dress. Of the cities I've lived in during my adult life, Los Angeles is the place I resided the longest, and it certainly had the most influence on my style. It's where I started working in fashion, after all.

Although I've lived in North Carolina for six years now, I can't say that I really relate to or identify with the Southern aesthetic. I prefer the "L.A. look." To me, that means more neutrals (aside from seasonal color trends), trend-forward accessories, denim that isn't skinny jeans, and interesting outfits with a bit more edge than what you typically see in the South. With that in mind, below is my fall shopping wish list. I can't have it all, but I narrowed it down to my favorites in case you can relate and want to shop along with me.

Who What Wear Collection Cate Boots

Who What Wear Collection

Ask me for the perfect pair of boots, and I'll show you these.

Zara Linen Blend Vest

Linen Blend Vest

This rust-colored vest is my idea of a fall basic.

Reformation Ami Dress

Pretty, comfortable, and affordable.

Ciao Lucia Varese Cotton Jacquard-Knit Cardigan

Varese Cotton Jacquard-Knit Cardigan

I already ordered this in green, but it was a tough decision.

Ugg Scuffita Genuine Shearling Slide Slippers

Scuffita Genuine Shearling Slide Slippers

I'm going to have a hard time taking these off this fall.

Good American Good 90's Jeans

Good 90's Jeans

Good luck finding a better pair of jeans. These are perfect.

Bottega Veneta Mini Jodie Bag

Yes, it's chocolate brown, and yes, it's dreamy.

Who What Wear Collection Willa Ruched Crisscross Top

Who What Wear Collection

Willa Ruched Crisscross Top

I can't get over how gorgeous this top looks on.

Birkenstock Boston Big Buckle Birkenstocks

Boston Big Buckle Birkenstocks

Hurry up—these are going to sell out.

Staud Zip-Up Sweatshirt

Zip-Up Sweatshirt

How many cool details can you fit into one sweatshirt?

Totême Wool and Cashmere Baseball Cap

Wool and Cashmere Baseball Cap

I didn't realize I needed a winter baseball cap until now, but I definitely do.

Jacquemus Le Cardigan Alzou

Le Cardigan Alzou

Definitely not your grandma's cardigan.

Reformation Port Dress

This groovy print is making me feel things.

New Balance x Bandier 327 Sneakers

New Balance x Bandier

This deserty color combo is so chic.

Staud Fairham Dress

The perfect thing to wear with knee-high boots.

Open Edit Ribbed Button-Up Cardigan

Ribbed Button-Up Cardigan

Only buttoning two buttons is key.

Mango Leather Penny Loafers

Leather Penny Loafers

Your search for the perfect loafers ends here.

Rails Brando Button Down

Brando Button Down

A patchwork plaid shirt just hits different.

Mango Pocket Tweed Jacket

Pocket Tweed Jacket

I'm just really into kelly-green everything these days.

Agolde Recycled Leather Fitted '90s Pants

Recycled Leather Fitted '90s Pants

It's safe to say that every Who What Wear editor is obsessed with these.

Simon Miller Bubble Vegan Leather Slide Clogs

Bubble Vegan Leather Slide Clogs

I predict that these will be an It item at NYFW.

LNA Tude Rib Top

LNA clearly excels at designing interesting knit tops.