My favorite thing about dressing for fall weather in NYC isn't the sweaters or boots or jackets. It's actually all the cozy accessories that make an outfit look more elegant. An expensive-looking accessory—whether it's a fuzzy hat or knit leg warmers—can do wonders for a fall look, turning a basic outfit into one that feels right at home in the chicest establishments in the city. I am an accessories connoisseur, and I rarely leave the house without a few on to make my outfit 10 times chicer. An accessory is truly the easiest way to up the ante.
I've accumulated a variety of accessories that I'm sure will sell out soon (maybe because of me), but I won't gatekeep them because they're just too good. I'm talking about knit hats, chic scarves in various colors, eye-catching balaclavas, gloves for the colder days, and glamorous faux-fur pieces. Looking for any of these? Keep scrolling for my recs for chic, expensive-looking fall accessories.
Zara
Wool Triangular Bandana
If you love a sleek pop of color, then this triangle scarf is right up your alley.
H&M
Fluffy-Knit Bucket Hat
This is the fuzzy hat of my dreams.
Nordstrom
Cashmere Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves
Leather gloves are a must.
Commando
Check Plaid Sheer Tights
Printed tights are the unsung hero of fall accessories, but not for long.
jocelyn
Faux Mink & Leather Fingerless Mittens
I wasn't into fingerless gloves much until I saw these.
DKNY
Crosswalk Pashmina
Sometimes, all you need is a lightweight scarf.
MANGO
Fur-Effect Hat
We love fur hats over here.
Barefoot Dreams
Cozychic Socks
These socks look so comfy and chic.
ZARA
Faux Fur Hooded Scarf
This is perfect for the fall transitioning into winter.
Varley
Dionne Plated Beanie
I love a contrasting colorway.
petit moments
Courchevel Triangle Scarf
This triangle scarf is an easy, chic accessory to add to your outfits.
Apparis
Devin Faux Fur Fox Shrug
Fur shrugs are so '90s coded.
COS
Mohair Bucket Hat
Sometimes, a fuzzy bucket hat is all it takes to get a look just right.
ZARA
Plain Faux Fur Fringed Scarf
This is stunning.
J.Crew
Brushed Cashmere Beanie in Leopard Print
The leopard-print trend is making its way into fall.
J.Crew
Brushed Cashmere Headband
Um, hello? I need this expeditiously.
By Malene Birger
Pinla Fringes Scarf
This fuzzy, shawl-style scarf is so fun.
H&M
Cable-Knit Leg Warmers
Knit leg warmers are sure to make your outfit look more elegant and whimsical.
J.Crew
Cashmere-Wool Blend Poncho
I never thought I would say this, but ponchos are so in.
BP
Fringe Blanket Scarf
Plaid prints just keep getting better.
Madewell
Houndstooth Ankle Socks
These socks are the perfect neutral pop of color.
Sanctuary Clothing
The Everyday Tote Bag Chicory
Leg warmers are a forever trend in my humble opinion.
Calle Del Mar
Winter Fair Isle Hoodie Scarf
Who knew a hooded scarf could be so stylish?
Acne Studios
Canada Scarf
Stay warm in this chic scarf.
ZARA
Plain Wool Blend Hat
A sleek accessory that will make an outfit feel complete looks like this hat.
Kerane Marcellus is a New York-based writer. She joined the Who What Wear team in 2025 after writing for Essence Magazine and freelancing for a number of other arts and culture publications. Fashion is a form of expression that she encourages everyone to take part in. There is no right or wrong in getting dressed! When she's not writing, she's reading in the park or gallery hopping in the city.