Welcome to Retail Therapy—Who What Wear Shopping Director Bobby Schuessler's digest of everything that matters in shopping. He spends his days uncovering special gems to elevate a wardrobe, and it's all curated right here for you, dear readers. Think of Bobby as your personal shopper, and this is the exclusive list of items that get a yes from him, period.
I'm writing this in a summer outfit (ahem, boxer shorts and a relaxed linen button-down shirt to be exact), and it's 83ºF outside, but yes, I'm here to chat about fall. This is my absolute favorite season for fashion. So while my actual outfits haven't shifted to the next season yet, my fashion brain has.
Many of my favorite brands and labels have been dropping their initial fall offerings, and I'm sharing a list of early fall pieces I think you'll get a lot of mileage out of, along with styling pieces to consider as well. Think of this as your initial fall shopping list and your ticket to looking chic all season long. Xx, B
COS Sweater
The COS cashmere sweater is back. This wildly popular silhouette kept selling out last season, so if you love it, this is your moment. This beige color is divine, but it also comes in delicious pink and navy hues. The styling possibilities are endless, but teaming it with a pretty lace-trim skirt is beyond chic.
Styling Pieces
Levi's Jeans
I couldn't create a fall shopping list without featuring great denim. The Levi's Ribcage jeans are consistent fan favorites for the perfect fit and silhouette. I think every editor on Team WWW owns some iteration. Wash wise, a darker color is lovely for the season, but I also love this wash to style with your other favorite fall staples.
Styling Pieces
Madewell Jacket
Speaking of denim, a cool denim jacket is a must for those first chillier days. You can't go wrong with a classic style, but this barn jacket (the look isn't going away anytime soon) with the corduroy trim is relevant and versatile. It will absolutely sell out.
Styling Pieces
Tory Burch Bag
It's the year of the suede bag (no matter the season). I'm loving this hobo style from Tory Burch with the asymmetrical topline design and the adjustable shoulder strap. It's very spacious, and there's also a zippered pocket to keep valuables secure. A winning fall bag if you ask me.
Styling Pieces
Kallmeyer Shirt
Plaid shirts make every fashion person's list of must-have fall 2025 staples. A checked shirt is low-key yet cool, forward yet timeless. This yellow iteration from one of my favorite labels right now, Kallmeyer, is next-level with the French cuffs and relaxed cut. I'd style it with dark jeans and sleek pumps for something a bit more unexpected.
Styling Pieces
Anine Bing Boots
Anine Bing's shoe range is always a favorite, and these knee-high suede boots are no exception. The Western vibe is on point, and so is the gorgeous shade of chocolate brown. Picture them with a contrasting black leather skirt and a cute tee or knit to start the season.
Styling Pieces
AllSaints Leather Jacket
A funnel-neck jacket is IT. The detail brings a directional spin to any look. The accents on this AllSaints leather jacket are quite noteworthy with the zippers, toggle waist, and pockets. Picture it with loose black trousers and stylish flats.
Styling Pieces
Nordstrom Blazer
Nineties-inspired, simple silhouettes exude elegance. This Nordstrom slim-fit blazer with the four buttons has that '90s vibe with the coordinating wrap midi skirt. I know you'll get compliments with this look—especially styled with a gorgeous pair of knee-high boots and a great bag.
Styling Pieces
Guest in Residence Sweater
A striped polo knit has a retro yet modern vibe. The specific color mixing on this sweater really caught my eye. It's one of those investment pieces you'll wear throughout the season and into winter. Guest in Residence cashmere is also insanely soft.
Styling Pieces
Vince Coat
I'm a massive fan of Vince for its range of elevated pieces, including this plaid coat. It's certainly pertinent to this season, but it will withstand the test of time and work for seasons to come with the classic shape. There are actually adjustable tabs at the waist if you want a more cinched-in look as well.
Styling Pieces
-
If Your Closet Is Feeling Meh, These 29 New Fall Nordstrom Items Will Turn It AroundFrom sweaters to sneakers.
-
I'm a Gen Z Editor—These Are the Elegant Outfit Ideas I'm Stealing From the Runways This FallEasier to copy than you think.
-
My Mom Sends Me Cute Walmart Finds on the Daily—31 Stylish Items She's Eyeing for FallOn-trend affordable finds.
-
See You Next Summer, Light-Wash Jeans—for Fall, This Is the Only Denim Trend That MattersAs seen on Hailey Bieber in L.A.
-
I Predict Trends for a Living—These 7 Will Be Huge Come FallA trend forecaster's take on what to shop right now.
-
I Just Created 5 Expensive-Looking Pre-Fall Outfits From Nordstrom, H&M, and Saks—You're WelcomeEverything you need to kick off September is right here.
-
It's True—Fashion People Are Ditching Leather Jackets for This Elevated Fall AlternativeCheckmate.
-
Forget the Sneakers—Baggy Jeans and a White Tee Look So Much Chicer With These Classic Fall ShoesLook polished without compromising comfort.
