The Top 10 Things to Buy This September If You Want Cooler Outfits and More Compliments

Welcome to 10 Things to Buy, a monthly shopping list that helps you shop smarter by focusing on the 10 key items to add to your cart that month if your wardrobe is in need of a boost. As a Who What Wear editor for the past 11 years, I've spent many hours advising people on what to shop for during any given season, so you're in good hands. Whether you're shopping for cold weather, warm weather, a vacation, or a wedding, I'm here to offer up the most seasonally appropriate suggestions. Be sure to return at the start of each month for more.

After months of talking about shopping for fall, we're finally here. September is *the* month for fall shopping, as the top trends have been solidified, and new arrivals are rolling in full steam ahead. If you're like me and have trouble deciding what to buy when faced with a million options, you've once again come to the right place. If it's compliment-worthy outfits you seek this fall, I made a list of the top ten things to buy this month to help you achieve this. From luxe-looking accessories to versatile basics to the season's most worth-it trends, keep scrolling to shop my monthly picks.

Calf-Hair Accessories

I'm just going to say it: I think calf hair accessories look even richer than suede ones do. Whether in a solid color or animal print, belts, bags, gloves, and shoes (although I'd consider that a separate category) in calf hair really take even the simplest of outfits to another level.

Basic Sweaters

As soon as people start shopping for cold weather and the holidays, sizes of the best basic sweaters will fly out of stock. Shopping early is advised.

Leather Jacket

Retailers don't typically stock that many units in leather jackets, since they're on the pricier side. If you invest in one now, you won't miss out on your top pick, and you'll be ready as soon as the weather cools down.

Neutral Jeans

Denim in shades of tan, brown, and olive is trending for fall, but they don't feel trendy per se. But they'll make your outfits look more interesting and more 2025 than basic blue jeans.

Suede Flats

Suede flats are a fall wardrobe essential, in my opinion. This is an item you can start wearing now, even if it's still warm out, so I suggest adding a pair to your closet ASAP.

Car Coat

As far as fall outerwear goes, it doesn't get more elegant than car coats. Choose a shade that goes with everything in your wardrobe and plan on wearing it on repeat.

Satin Slip Dress

Fall 2025's biggest dress trend is satin slip dresses, and the time to order one is now. Dress them down by pairing them with barn jackets, leather jackets, or oversize sweaters. Dress them up by pairing them with faux-fur jackets and heels.

Tights

I don't know about you, but my tights collection is seriously depleted post-winter. I'm stocking up now and tossing all of my pairs with pills and runs before I accidentally wear them.

Non-White Sneakers

White sneakers are great, but I tend to want to wear ones in richer colors come fall. Burgundy, tan, brown, and red are a few colors you can't go wrong with.

Column Skirt

If you want elegant outfits at the ready, I highly suggest purchasing a column skirt in a versatile color. They look chic with blazers, button-downs, sweaters—you name it.