I went looking for the fall pieces people keep searching for: deep burgundy and brown tones, soft merino and fleece layers, easy denim and the retro sneakers that go with all of it. These 25 picks come from brands you can actually find at Uniqlo, Gap...
I reach for this when I want one thin knit that layers under a coat and still looks neat at the office. It is a plain crew shape, so it suits anyone building a fall base of burgundy, brown or navy. Pick your color first and then match the size.
Women's Merino Crew Neck Sweater
My go-to for a fine-gauge men's knit that sits cleanly under a jacket or over a collared shirt. It suits anyone who wants a smart layer without bulk. If you only buy one sweater this season, get this in a deep neutral.
Men's Extra Fine Merino Crew Neck Long Sleeve Sweater
This is the soft, teddy-style zip jacket I see everywhere as a cheap alternative to the pricier shearling looks. It suits errands, campus and cold mornings. Grab it in a cream or brown shade if you want something that goes with everything.
Women's Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
A thin base layer that goes under sweaters on days when a heavy knit would feel like too much. It suits commuters and anyone who stands at cold bus stops. I would buy two so one is always clean.
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I like this for its very soft hand feel and a plain shape that works with jeans or trousers. It suits anyone who wants an easy everyday sweater that does not scratch. Worth picking up in a fall color like burgundy or camel.
CashSoft Crewneck Sweater
This is the broken-in sweatshirt feel with a classic logo front that I think suits weekend errands and layering under a puffer. Get your usual size if you like a regular fit, or size up for the oversized look. A solid pick for relaxed fall outfits.
VintageSoft Crop Logo Hoodie
A high-rise straight leg with a roomy seat that I like for anyone who wants the relaxed, brown-or-washed denim look without a skinny fit. It suits wearing with loafers or chunky sneakers. Check the color name and your usual size before you order.
Wedgie Jeans for Women | Levi's® US
A slim, not skinny, leg that I recommend to anyone who wants jeans that go with boots and sneakers alike. It suits people who like a neat, tapered look. Pick a dark rinse for fall and get your usual waist and length.
Levis® 511 - Shop Slim Fit Jeans for Men
If you want the relaxed, slouchy leg that is replacing skinny jeans, this is the one I would try first. It suits anyone who wears chunky sneakers or boots with the hem stacked. Order your normal size and tailor the length.
Baggy Dad Women's Jeans - Medium Wash - Levi's
The denim jacket that layers over a hoodie or under a bigger coat on in-between days. I think it suits anyone who wants a light outer layer for crisp afternoons. Look for a darker wash if you want it to dress up easily.
Original Trucker Jacket - Medium Wash
A thick cable-knit style in a rugged wool blend, which suits cold walks and anyone who loves a classic New England look. I like how it holds its shape wash after wash. Buy it if you want a sweater that stays in rotation for years.
Men's Bean's Classic Ragg Wool Sweater, Crewneck
A knit-look fleece pullover that is warm without looking like gym wear, so it works at the office or on a hike. I think it suits people who hate bulky layers. Worth a splurge if you want one piece for many cold months.
A budget-friendly full-zip fleece that I use as the mid-layer under a shell on wet days. It suits hikers, dog walkers and anyone who wants simple warmth. Grab it in a dark color so it hides dirt.
Columbia Men's Fast Trek™ II Full Zip Fleece Jacket
A thick cotton tee with a chest pocket that holds up to heavy wear and layers well under flannels. I think it suits anyone who likes the workwear look. Pick a size up if you want a roomier, boxier fit.
Loose Fit Heavyweight Long-Sleeve Pocket T-Shirt
A heavy, boxy crewneck sweatshirt that I wear on its own or under a jacket for a broken-in feel. It suits campus days and weekend errands. Buy it a size up if you like a roomier fit, and pick a deep fall color.
Champion Men's Reverse Weave Sweatshirt
A thick, soft fleece hoodie that suits campus days, cold gym walks and anyone who wants a basic layer under a coat. I like the simple logo and the heavier weight. Buy it a size up if you like a slouchy fit.
Champion Men's Powerblend Fleece Hoodie
The slouchy crescent shape is the soft, unfussy handbag look that is popular this fall, and this one is light and roomy for daily use. I think it suits commuters and students. Get a color like brown or burgundy to match the season.
Medium Nylon Crescent Bag Black
A stretchy straight-leg jean that I recommend to anyone who wants comfortable denim for long days at a desk or on their feet. It suits people who dislike stiff jeans. Choose a dark or brown wash for fall and size to your usual waist.
Men's Extreme Motion Straight Fit Tapered Leg Jean
A durable straight-leg work pant that comes in brown tones, which fits the chocolate brown trend and suits anyone who wants a hard-wearing trouser. I like how it takes a hem. Pick your normal waist size and let the hem decide the fit.
Original 874® Work Pants
A warm, padded wool sock for boots and cold-weather walks that keeps feet dry and comfortable. I think it suits hikers and commuters. If your feet run cold, this is a good place to start and a simple gift too.
Smartwool Hike Classic Full Cushion Crew Socks Unisex
The slim, low-profile racing-style sneaker that has become the go-to for the ballet-flat meets sneaker look. I think it suits anyone who wants a streamlined shoe with jeans or trousers. Read the sizing notes on the product page before you order.
Speedcat OG Sneakers
A suede terrace-style sneaker with a gum sole that fits the retro look I keep seeing this fall. It suits anyone who wants a slim, vintage-feeling shoe with denim. Go for a dark color if you want it to match brown and burgundy outfits.
adidas Spezial
A retro runner with mesh and suede panels that works with baggy jeans and trousers alike. I like it for people who want a comfortable daily sneaker that does not look too sporty. Pick the grey and silver one if you want an easy match.
A Review Of The New Balance 530 Sneakers
A retro runner with mesh and suede panels that works with baggy jeans and trousers alike. I like it for people who want a comfortable daily sneaker that does not look too sporty. Pick the grey and silver one if you want an easy match.
A Review Of The New Balance 530 Sneakers
A chunky, silver-toned retro runner that has been a fixture on trend lists, and it feels cushioned for all-day wear. I think it suits anyone who wants a statement sneaker for jeans. Order your regular size and check the color you like.
GEL-1130
A chunky, puffy-tongued skate shoe with a retro look that suits anyone who wants a casual sneaker for jeans. I like its bold shape on short days. Order your usual size and pick a dark colorway for fall.