My friends outsource all their shopping to me. So, it was no surprise when my bestie called me up, curious about a fall closet update. She happens to be one of the chicest people I know—thanks to my keen fashion sense and her ability to make anything stylish. With a budget of $625, I set out to find eight elevated fall pieces that undoubtedly complement what you already own and extend your wardrobe well beyond the autumn months.
Two words I'd use to describe her style are minimal and effortless. I drew on my experience as a shopping editor, as well as my passion for elevated basics. I turned to Nordstrom, one of my go-to places for fall fashion. From their in-house labels to standout brands like Mango, Reformation, Madewell, and Levi's, Nordstrom is a fashion person's dream. Coming in slightly under budget, here are eight chic fall pieces that are sure to upgrade any fall closet.
Trusted Trench
My Pick
A reliable trench is an autumn must-have. If you don't have one by now, I suggest it should be your first purchase of the season. While it may be lightweight, it definitely pulls its weight in the fall closet lineup. Not just for rainy days, this khaki beauty looks fabulous paired with a pair of straight-leg jeans, sneakers, and a white crew-neck.
More Trench Options
Stovepipe Jeans
My Pick
Stovepipe jeans are one of those denim fits that always look put together. The straight-leg denim looks best when paired with a crisp button-down, and a chunky sweater casually thrown over the shoulders—a cool styling hack I picked up from Kendall Jenner.
More Straight-Leg Jeans
Roll-Neck Sweater
My Pick
A fall closet isn't complete without a sweater, so of course I was sending this rich mocha knit her way. The folded neck and wide hem make this the perfect oversize knit for a breezy autumn day. I'd totally style this with some black wide-leg trousers and suede flats.
More Roll-Neck Sweaters
Classic Button-Down
My Pick
This one is a classic, I know. The same applies to the trench. A crisp white button-down is not just a fall essential, but a must-have for all year round. The right button-down can revive any wardrobe, bringing structure and sophistication to your outfit rotation.
More Button-Downs
Low-Profile Sneakers
My Pick
I haven’t forgotten about butter yellow just yet. These sunny suede trainers follow the low-profile trend that fashion insiders have adopted.
More Sneakers
Suede Tote
My Pick
Everyone I know is wearing a suede brown bag this fall. And I fear my friend is a chronic tote bag wearer. So, it's safe to say this one hits all the marks. From the crescent silhouette to mirrored studs, I predict this will be her favorite of the eight.
More Suede Totes
Crew-Neck Tee
My Pick
Finding the perfect white crew-neck tee is the fashion equivalent of finding the holy grail. This cotton-blend crew-neck from Nordstrom might just be the closest we’ll get.
More Crew-Neck Tees
Wide-Leg Trousers
My Pick
Ending with my favorite of the eight fall pieces are wide-leg trousers. These under-$100 Open Edit trousers are the perfect bottom for a kitten heel and off-the-shoulder top ensemble. Not to mention that they fit right in with the big pants trend of 2025.
More Wide-Leg Trousers
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