Ahead of the Curve: The 7 Fall Trends Insiders Are Shopping First

It's arguably the best time for fashion right now. The fall collections we've been chatting about since spring are now beginning to arrive online and in stores. Fashion month is just around the corner, but before I shift my focus to what's to come in 2026 (hard to believe we're already looking ahead there), I'm sitting down to discuss everything fall 2025.

The runways were replete with fresh ideas on autumnal dressing, from undeniably luxe fur outerwear to delicate lace-trimmed skirts and dresses, and some of the most elegant handbags I've seen in a while. All in all, the upcoming season is set to be one of incredibly chic and polished dressing, and I'm already anticipating which items, runway looks, and overall trends fashion people will gravitate toward first.

I asked some of the most stylish women I know who work as editors, stylists, consultants, and tastemakers in the industry to share the one fall trend that they're prioritizing above any others for the season ahead. Here, discover the top investments they're making, the inspirational runway looks they have in mind, and the exact buys they're eyeing to execute on them.

WHO: Shay June, Stylist and Consultant

"Texture, but specifically fur. A carryover from last year, there was quite a bit on the fall 2025 runways. It adds textural interest and sheen that lifts the look of heavier winter fabrics. I love everything Nour Hammour does—the Evita Coat in particular is such a statement and feels very Khaite adjacent."

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WHO: Alexis Bennett, Commerce Content Lead, Elle

"This season, my cart is filled with lace-trimmed items, from frill-adorned T-shirts to embroidered silk skirts. I plan on wearing them with cozy sweaters and tough leather jackets to lean into the dark-romance trend. After years of serious shirting and menswear-inspired pants, I’m so glad being a 'girl' is back."

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WHO: April Hennig, President, Moda Operandi

"Pony-hair accessories are having a major moment—especially in animal prints. Our fall lineup includes cow-print boat shoes, zebra Mary Janes, and leopard everything—from an incredible pair of Alaïa thong sandals to Toteme's signature bucket bag. The standout piece from the next iteration of Conner Ives' collaboration with Jimmy Choo (which we'll have on site very soon) is a towering, thigh-high zebra boot. What's great about this trend is how versatile it is: depending on the way it's styled, it can feel Western, preppy, or totally glam."

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WHO: Jordan Goldberg, Managing Editor, Editorialist

"This fall, I'm all in on plaid. It feels right for the season—maybe even a bit obvious at first glance? Luckily, brands like Proenza Schouler, Leset, and Kallmeyer have given it a contemporary spin for the 2025 season, and I've already begun incorporating the print into my transitional weather looks. Think a plaid button-down shirt paired with long denim shorts or a breezy plaid skirt with a tank top."

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WHO: Kerry Pieri, Brand Consultant and Content Creator

"I'm loving all of the new, interesting trench coats we're seeing—from shorter versions to interesting necklines. It feels like a refreshing update on a classic."

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WHO: Julia Rabinowitsch, Founder, The Millennial Decorator

"This fall, I'm leaning into texture and pattern. Namely, patterns like ponyhair or croc. The mix of textures brings a quiet luxury to outfits, adding dimension and a subtle point of difference that really stands out. Fall, for me, is always about layering, and these finishes feel like the ultimate layer—not just in clothing, but in texture, my mood, and refinement."

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WHO: Anna LaPlaca, Senior Editor, Who What Wear

I've seen tassel details pop up over the course of 2025, but with the impact that the fall runways made, the fringe-y detail is set to become one that makes a big impact this season. The looks of tasseled belts and evening bags at labels like Kallmeyer and Fforme are giving me so many ideas on how I want to wear them—tied over long coats, belted with languid trousers, and added to elevate minimalist staples.

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