Fall’s 20 Must-Have Updates

#1 The Velvet-y Must-Have.
Why is it a Find? In Clothes & Conversation, we featured our favorite velvet blazer of the season. And ladies, this fabric is being done in every conceivable shape and style this season. We love it best in timeless silhouettes to keep it from feeling too costume-y or “holiday only”. J Brand’s skinny jeans in rich black velvet are the way to go.
Wear it with: Don’t treat them as a precious item. Velvet jeans can certainly dress up for a night out with a pretty blouse or sexy top and heels. But we love them just as much when paired with something casual like a plaid button down or cozy sweater and booties – the rich texture gives any look a fall feeling. And the classic black looks great with leather or suede shoes.
Fit Tip: J Brand has a contemporary fit, and these velvet jeans have some nice stretch to them with faux front pockets – a trick we love to avoid adding any excess fabric around the hips. With a timeless mid-rise that sits just below the belly button, we suggest going with your normal size, available in 23-32.
Alternatives: J Brand also offers a higher rise version if you’ve gotten into the that fit like we have – great to prevent muffin top and elongate your legs. Rag & Bone’s version comes in black, and an awesome army green in their skinny, contemporary fit. And if you’re an AG Jeans fan, go with their take. Whatever brand/fit is your preference, you’ll want a pair.

#2 The Bell Sleeve.
Why is it a Find? When it comes to what’s new in tops, it’s all about the bell sleeve – a flare of the cuff (or from the elbow down) that gives any top or dress a fabulously fresh new look. And we are big fans. It’s such a chic way to add some style, and it’s quite slimming when it’s done in proper proportion, as it is in this Ella Moss blouse.
Wear it with: The bell sleeve in in perfect balance with the looser, swingy fit of this top, and the v-neck line ensures this blouse doesn’t overwhelm with too much fabric. Easy to wear untucked, the color palette speaks for itself so pair it with simple slim black ponte pants or dark skinny jeans for a look that is ideal for day or night.
Fit Tip: Ella Moss is a contemporary line known for it’s feminine looks like this one. The cut of this blouse is easy and truly flattering for every figure, in a length that hits at high hip on most ladies for a beautiful drape.
Alternatives: This sleeve detail is in every type of silhouette – updating timeless cashmere sweaters, pretty silk and lace blouses, and even adding some new style to crisp and easy button down shirts.

#3 The Modern Pants.
Why is it a Find?This season, pants have at least one of three key characteristics: 1. Wide, relaxed legs; 2. Cropped length to be worn with loafers for now and booties once it gets cold to keep your ankles/lower legs covered; 3. Higher rises that sit anywhere from slightly below to above the belly button. Even if these Theory trousers didn’t cover #1 and #3, we’d be OBSESSED with them. They are the softest and most comfortable pair of work-ready pants we’ve come across in a long, long time.
Wear it with: In the image shown, they are worn slouchy with casual flat sneakers. But they can absolutely be worn dressier (with a pretty blouse as you can see on Theory’s own site, or as Shopbop shows with a classic turtleneck). Classic heels or chunky heeled booties look just as good as flat shoes - just make sure the hem skims the ground, as you can see here. 
Fit Tip: Theory has a contemporary fit, but these pull-on pants are made to have a slouchy, easy fit. If you are between sizes, you can even size down.
Alternatives: These wide leg trousers are also made in a simple navy ponte fabric which has a bit more structure. Alternatively, get a pants update by going with the other big trend in Theory’s cropped, gorgeous camel or black work-ready pants option.

#4 The Skirt Refresh.
Why is it a Find? The freshest update to skirts has been in the length – a midi length that hits somewhere below the knee and the bottom of the calf. For fall and winter, this is truly a delightful update since it’s actually practical! J.Crew’s gorgeous walnut color will take you through the season in style, in a wool/cotton fabric that’s not too heavy (or light) and is lined to prevent your skirt from clinging to your tights.
Wear it with: The length of this skirt is surprisingly versatile. Of course it’s pretty with classic pumps, as shown. But it looks great with tall boots and a slim turtleneck or button down, too.
Fit Tip: Anything tucked in will show off the waist buckle detail and highlight the smallest part of your torso, since it sits at the natural waist. This nicely balances the a-line shape of the skirt that skims over the hips. In J.Crew’s typically modern fit, in sizes 000-16, go with your normal size.
Alternatives: J.Crew denim midi skirt is a great alternative for a casual day with boots and a cozy sweater or plaid button down.

#5 The Feminine Blouse.
Why is it a Find?

Details like bows and ribbon neckties give button downs a ladylike feel this season. This version from Free People lets you have the option to wear the bow or not – the fabric is detachable. Where it in a low bow, as shown here, untied and hanging, or button the blouse all the way up and wear it tied at the throat. Or, don’t wear the tie at all and show off the gorgeous covered button & loop placket.
Wear it with: The back of this blouse is pleated, which creates a lot of volume – great when you want to wear it untucked with slim pants for a more casual look. It is long enough to tuck in, too, so you easily get a slimmer look when you tuck it into your work trousers or a pencil skirt.
Fit Tip: The oversized cuffs are meant to hang a bit longer to your fingertips – and you can easily cuff them or roll up the sleeves when you need to dig into some computer work. If you are between sizes, the volume of this blouse makes it easy to go down a size and still have plenty of room.
Alternatives: There are several patterns to choose from through the 'shop it' button, and Free People offers even more patterns on their own site. You can get a similar neck tie accent in this tailored cream Banana Republic blouse - perfect for the office with a skirt or trousers, and a night out with a tuxedo/velvet blazer and edgy pants.

#6 The Textured Knit.
Why is it a Find?

Knits always become more important in the colder weather, and this season, they’re all about texture. From classic ribbing to interesting twists, the intricate needlework let’s the colors really stand out. Nic+Zoe is known for their interesting knits, so it’s no surprise that this open cardigan - using a combination of a couple different knit patterns - is one of our favorite Finds.
Wear it with: The neutral color combination and tailored styling gives you endless options. Keep it casual as shown with a tee or tank and jeans. Or wear it to the office with your favorite black trousers. It’s made of a cotton blend that has a touch of linen in it to give it a beautiful hand that has lovely weight to it, but won’t get you too hot once the heat kicks in at the office and in restaurants.
Fit Tip: Nic+Zoe’s modern fit is available in sizes XS-XL, and runs true to size. This silhouette isn’t too oversized or too trim – a truly versatile shape that will skim your torso.
Alternatives: It also comes in a pretty red/beige combination through the ‘shop it’ button. For a longer textured cardigan, you can’t beat the price of Bobi’s version – and it’s casually chic over skinny jeans or leggings. If you prefer a pullover, Autumn Cashmere’s super soft cashmere v-neck is ribbed and yet, has a relaxed fit that is loose and easy. Bottoms play into this trend, too – and Nic+Zoe delivers with these flattering pull-on knit pants and easy skirt - ideal for work and weekend.

#7 The New Look of Jeans.
Why is it a Find? Ladies, your skinny jeans are still perfectly stylish, but adding cropped jeans to your fall look – in styles that either have a bit of flare or a straighter, not skinny, leg - will really up your game. And we’ve got to tell you, it’s not only a refreshing update, they’ll make you look pretty darn good. FRAME’s simple black version is the perfect way to incorporate this style – the saturated black, super soft stretch denim is simple and slimming, allowing the style to take on a sophisticated feel. And they’re a great price for ‘designer’ denim.
Wear it with: Of course, any top goes from a button down to a tunic or cozy sweater. But the question you have is probably around the shoes. For now, these jeans look great with flats – oxfords, loafers, ballet slippers, and sneakers all look cute. And when it starts to get too cold to expose your ankles, the key is a good pair of booties- check out one of our favorites at #17 in this list. They’ll come up to the bottom of the jeans, so you can still show off the style without sacrificing comfort.
Fit Tip: FRAME is a contemporary line, but doesn’t run as skinny as some other denim lines – the fit is more similar to Citizens of Humanity and Joe’s Jeans than Rag & Bone. In sizes 24-32, go with your normal size. (If you're often between sizes, you can size up.) The waist sits at your natural waist, which gives the cropped leg an elongating illusion that is just right. They should hit just above your ankle – and if you need to get them shortened, you don’t even need to keep the original hem so you’ll save a few bucks on alterations.
Alternatives: FRAME also did this style in a deep, dark green corduroy that is just as slimming as the soft black denim version featured, with a subtle hint of seasonal color that is so pretty with neutral tops in black, camel, grey, or navy. AG’s version has a soft flare to the hem that equally flatters. If you like bootcut or flare-leg jeans, this is a great update in AG’s typically contemporary fit – slim, but not skinny.

#8 The Animal Attraction.
Why is it a Find? Animal prints really never go out of style, as far as we’re concerned, and this season they are truly front and center. J.Crew’s leopard cardigan – in their iconic Jackie silhouette – is one of our favorites, giving this timeless print an appropriately ageless feel in a simple sweater silhouette. We’re directing you to J.Crew’s site through the ‘shop it’ button, but you can get it at Nordstrom, too. They just partnered to carry a select assortment of J.Crew's products in Nordstrom's stores and online– score! 
Wear it with: If there’s ever a season to wear a twinset in leopard print this is it, so you can absolutely go with the coordinating shell, if you want to really go for it. For a simpler look, just wear this cardigan over a simple black or white layer – a button down, silk shell, tee, or turtleneck. And over the holidays, you’ll be able to glam it up with some deep jewel tones and a sparkly necklace.
Fit Tip: J.Crew’s Jackie cardigan is one of our favorites for its fit. Not too trim, it has a slim silhouette that hits at the hip so it can easily be worn over a sheath dress or with a pencil skirt and it doesn’t look boxy. And it’s just as easy with trousers or jeans of any shape.
Alternatives: J.Crew’s also did this leopard print in their Tippi sweater – a crewneck pullover that is a staple in their line. And they’ve got a great skirt in leopard still available at Nordstrom, too. But J.Crew isn’t the only one enjoying animal print’s comeback – Joie’s open cardigan or silk blouse are beautiful options in modern, easier silhouettes.

#9 The Lady in Red.
Why is it a Find? Every shade of red, from bright and cheery to deep and moody, are prominent in clothes, accessories, and lipstick. Nic+Zoe’s dress uses a pattern with a couple shades of red that flatter every skin tone, in a faux wrap shape that flatters every figure.
Wear it with: There are no tricky decisions to make when it comes to this dress. The use of black in the pattern makes it easy to wear with black tights and boots or heels all season long. The neckline looks great with a chunky necklace, but the collar detail is stylish enough to wear without any jewelry.
Fit Tip: Nic+Zoe has a modern fit that is just lovely for every lady, which is why it has always been one of our most popular lines. This dress is lined to keep things looking smooth and the wrap neckline is faux, so you don’t have to worry about it accidentally gaping open. In XS-XL, and Petites, you’ll get the perfect fit for you.
Alternatives: For a contemporary alternative, Joseph’s sleeveless sweater dress is not only a gorgeous shade of rich red, it’s asymmetrical drape across the waist is just ridiculously flattering on every body type.

#10 The Pretty in Pink.
Why is it a Find? Every shade of pink, from dusty and soft to vibrant and bold is prevalent this season. This sweater represents everything we love about Anthropologie – it captures the beautiful femininity of pink, in a way that’s not overly “pink” or girly. And it’s done in a silhouette that is flattering and versatile.
Wear it with: The swingy shape looks great with slimmer bottoms, like skinny jeans or your favorite slim black pants. For something a little more unexpected, this blushy shade of pink pairs beautifully with burgundy, cognac brown, or rich shades of green, too so don’t shy away from corduroy skinnies in merlot, olive, or deep forest green.
Fit Tip: Anthropologie is known for their modern fit that is relaxed, in styles that are meant to be easy and not too skinny. This sweater is true to that, so go with your normal size.
Alternatives: It comes in a beautiful blue/grey combination through the ‘shop it’ button, too. For a deeper pink, J.Crew's easy-fitting cashmere sweater is simply gorgeous.

#11 Oh, that Cozy Sweater.
Why is it a Find? When it comes to this season’s favorite sweaters, the focus is on the neck – all versions of a turtleneck, from an oversized cowl to an easier mockneck, ladies, you can get the look no matter your preference (we know you have a strong opinion on turtlenecks - either love ‘em or hate ‘em). The perfect middle ground, Vince’s funnel neck cashmere sweater is quite literally one of the softest sweaters we’ve ever felt against our skin. Vince has boiled the cashmere to create an incredibly light and lofty feeling. Like all Vince sweaters, the timeless styling and high quality ensure it’s a sweater you’ll wear for years to come.
Wear it with: The loose and relaxed fit makes it easy to wear on the weekends with jeans or cargo pants in any shape, boyfriend to skinny. And if you want to wear it on a casual work day, play off the loose fit with slim trousers and menswear inspired oxfords or booties to create a tailored look.
Fit Tip: Meant for an easy and oversized fit, which is typical of most Vince sweaters, the picture we’re showing you here is more accurate than the one you’ll find on Nordstrom’s site once you click through the ‘shop it’ button. If you are between sizes, size down and you’ll still have a relaxed look.
Alternatives: Nic+Zoe’s black & white intarsia patterned version is another amazing Find with a funnel neck and easy tunic styling perfect for trousers, jeans, or leggings. Joie’s soft grey textured version and subtle grey plaid knit are other favorites that looks great with jeans, corduroys, or this season’s cargo pants. And if you haven’t tried Club Monaco’s cashmeres yet, the relaxed fit and wonderful quality of these grey or rich green versions are the perfect place to start.

#12 The Plaid Piece.
Why is it a Find? Take an unexpected approach to plaid in these Sanctuary leggings. More substantial than typical leggings, they have faux front and back pockets to create a skinny pant look with the comfort of leggings.
Wear it with: A denim button down and cardigan or blazer with a pair or loafers or oxfords give these leggings a more tailored look for a casual Friday. Add a cozy slouchy sweater and boots for a comfy weekend look.
Fit Tip: These leggings run true to size, with substance and stretch to the fabric so they don't get sheer or look too thin.
Alternatives: Even if you already have a favorite plaid shirt, one from RAILS is an absolute must. They really revived the plaid shirt craze and you won’t find a softer shirt – no matter which plaid color you choose. To incorporate some plaid in to your work wardrobe, do it with Banana Republic’s navy windowpane blazer. And if you’re already a plaid fanatic like we are, you’ve got to check out Gap +Pendleton’s limited edition collection of plaids that is sure to sell out quickly.

#13 The Military Nod.
Why is it a Find? If you haven’t tried anything form AllSaints yet, let us convince you – the quality is fabulous, the style is updated with a bit of edge (they’re based in London, after all), and you get free shipping and returns on their site through the ‘shop it’ button, so there’s no downside in trying out this dress. (Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s have started carrying the brand, but they don’t have this dress.) Military inspiration isn’t too literal here, which feels just right, in a khaki green color and easy silhouette that works in most any setting.
Wear it with: Simplicity is key here. This dress is shown with brown booties, and looks just as good with black tights and boots as it does with nude pumps and bare legs.
Fit Tip: AllSaints is a contemporary line, but this dress is cut with an easier, modern fit in a soft cotton fabric that won’t cling. Your normal size should be a perfect fit.
Alternatives: Military inspiration is not just about the color this season. Details like crest-stamped buttons on Free People’s ruffle hem jacket, cargo pockets on relaxed chinos and skinny pants; and, nautical accents like stripes and sailor-style pants are must-haves.

#14 The Shoulder Showoff Update.
Why is it a Find? While true off-the-shoulder looks from Spring/Summer continue, just a little peek-a-boo of the shoulder has a more appropriate feel for the colder weather, and is easily bra-friendly. You get the best of both worlds with this Sanctuary top because you can wear the neckline as shown AND pulled down for a true off-the-shoulder look. (See how that looks at Zappos here.)
Wear it with: The double-layer open hem line is so flattering, and just a bit longer on most ladies than on the model shown. We love that it’s not a fitted silhouette, letting the shoulder detail stand out as the sexy detail. For a date night look, pair this pretty rust color with coated leggings or dark wash skinnies. For a weekend daytime look, it’s really cute with your favorite broken-in jeans or skinny cargo pants. 
Fit Tip: The swingy shape is not only modern in fit, but perfectly concealing and super comfortable.
Alternatives: Whether you prefer Bailey44’s banded bottom v-neck sweater, or Splendid’s ribbed casual boatneck top, a touch of shoulder reveal makes any top date night ready.

#15 The Essential Layering Piece.
Why is it a Find? Truly the backbone of any outfit this season, a turtleneck works under everything. Whether you are pairing it with a conservative look, like a suit or cardigan and pencil skirt, or going for something more fashion forward like a sleeveless dress or one-shoulder sweater, layering a turtleneck underneath will give any look modern sophistication.
Wear it with: Thin and lightweight, J.Crew’s turtleneck is done in their super soft and light as air tissue cotton, so it won’t make you hot when you layer it under anything from a heavier wool blazer or cardigan to a velvet camisole. A fun tip: buy 2 colors and wear them layered, letting the color beneath bubble up to the top in the turtleneck and along the hems.
Fit Tip: Available in J.Crew’s modern fit, sizes XXXS-XL, this turtleneck is meant to be fitted – ideal for layering. Some of the lighter colors can be a bit sheer so wear a nude bra with them.
Alternatives: This turtleneck comes in a ton of colors, so you can mix-and-match and stock up through the ‘shop it’ button. Ann Taylor’s elbow length sleeve turtleneck comes in a bunch of great fall colors and has a bit more substantial weight that can still be worn as a layer, and is also great on its own.

#16 The Key Coat.
Why is it a Find? A great coat adds polish to any outfit, and makes you feel just a little better about going outside in the cold. This season, luxe details make your coat a little more special, with designers using fur, shearling, plaid wools, and even brocade fabrics to enhance your outerwear options. Free People’s peacoat does it with just the right amount of balance – using slim gold embroidery along the cuffs and pockets to play up the timeless military buttons. Our favorite part? The faux fur collar is removable – you can see how it looks without the fur here.
Wear it with: The length of this coat hits mid thigh, so you can wear it with both pants and skirts. It dresses up and down with ease, making it a go-to option for work and weekend.
Fit Tip: Free People cut this coat in a modern fit that will easily fit over bulky sweaters in your normal size, available in XS-L.
Alternatives: If your size is sold out at Nordstrom through the ‘shop it’ button, try Shopbop (where you can use your Amazon Prime account for free shipping and returns), Bloomingdales, or Lord & Taylor. For a true taste of timeless luxury, Tahari’s double breasted above-knee length purple bordeaux color is a beautifully chic alternative.

#17 The Block Heel Booties.
Why is it a Find? For all the cropped jeans and pants of the season, booties that come up just high enough to keep your ankles from being exposed are a stylish necessity (and they’re great for all your other full length pants and jeans, too). Lucky for us ladies, designers have finally gotten smart and took a liking to block heels again, and Vince combines the two ideas with perfection in these booties.
Wear it with: A truly universal look, and wonderful quality, the toe of these booties is a timeless almond shape and the heel is covered so they aren’t too casual. You can wear them with work pants or jeans. They’re even cute with tights and skirts.
Fit Tip: The shaft comes up above the ankle and isn’t too wide so you can wear them with skinny pants - as shown in the alternate image here, as well as cropped and wider pants - you can get a sense of what that would look like in the alternate image here.
Alternatives: Frye’s block heel booties have a slightly narrower toe shape and come in some great suedes, as well as black leather – you can see them on here. 

#18 The Luxe Loafers.
Why is it a Find? Menswear inspiration has been pretty prominent in footwear, and for fall, it has more of an upscale angle than the chunkier looks of seasons past. These kate spade new york loafers show it off to perfection, using a gorgeous shade of deep blue patent leather with a black accent band for true versatility.
Wear it with: Add some menswear flare to your jeans or pair them with pretty much all of your work trousers – the deep blue/black combination looks great with navy, black, charcoal, camel, and even shades of mid-tone brown.
Fit Tip: These loafers run true to size.
Alternatives: These come in black with a fun, leopard detail and also solid black - both, really versatile options. If you prefer a heel, Michael Kors patent block heel loafers are the perfect choice that can easily be worn with skirts and dresses for a professional look - and give any jeans a just-right menswear edge.

#19 The Creatively Tailored Bag.
Why is it a Find? Oh, ladies, this line of bags from GUM is such a Find. We are in serious love. And we don’t say that casually. This line uses rubber – yes, rubber – instead of leather to create bags that we can (and do) happily carry to work. No worries about getting caught in the rain, this herringbone patterned satchel has the polished appearance of an expensive bag…without the price tag or fuss. And it’s super lightweight. Seriously, pictures don’t do it justice.
Wear it with: Ideal with any of your office looks, this tailored bag will give you stylish confidence for any meeting – and may even make for a great conversation piece. The subtle whimsy of the matte rubber material keeps it from being too serious though, so you can also wear it casually.
Fit Tip: The size makes it a great work bag, large enough to fit all your essentials and even some files or changes of shoes, if needed.
Alternatives: We’re highlighting this herringbone print – it looks just as good in person, but check out the assortment of satchel sizes, backpacks, and amazing colors. We recommend them all. This line is not available in many places – we’re sending you to Shopbop where you’ll get free shipping & returns – you can even use your Amazon Prime account.

#20 The Embellishment Take Over.
Why is it a Find? Jewelry accents using bold, chunky stones will have you happily looking forward to the holiday season – but don’t wait to wear them. These necklace adds sparkle to any neckline, using jet black stones that sparkle with chic subtlety.
Wear it with: Not only does this necklace work with a sexy date night top or cocktail dress, it is so chic poking out from inside a crisp white button down. And that is what we love best about the style - this necklace has legs, and is meant to be worn in unexpected ways this season. Don’t be afraid to add it to your denim button down or plaid shirt and ripped jeans when you are headed out to brunch. The high and low combination is perfection.
Fit Tip: The shorter length makes it easy to wear with crewneck, v-necks, wrap styles, and any open neckline.
Alternatives: kate spade new york’s feminine, bold style perfectly plays into this trend. We especially love some of the statement stud earrings, using large clusters of glass pearls & crystals, gorgeous amethyst crystals and oversized floral shapes.