I Asked a Celebrity Stylist What to Buy and What to Skip This Fall

Everyone you speak to will have their own opinion on what’s worth buying, skipping, wearing, and holding off on for the coming season. I know I have some thoughts—in fact, so many—as do my fellow editors and countless other fashion insiders. However, when I thought about who my ideal expert would be to press on the matter of what’s worth snagging for the coming months, I couldn’t think of anyone more well-informed than a celebrity stylist. After all, they’re not just responsible for dressing stars and It girls according to what’s cool, but they’re also often the ones who decide what the next must-have basic or trending item will be before it's even a thing.

With that in mind, I ventured to tap Scot Louie—stylist to Kehlani, Keke Palmer, Karrueche Tran, and more plus an enviable dresser in his own right—to tell me just what I was itching to know. Luckily for all of us, he not only obliged but delivered. To read about Louie’s purchasing dos and don’ts for fall and to shop his list of must-have items along the way, simply continue scrolling.

The expert:

The cheat sheet:

The details:

Skip: New Activewear

"After all, you’ve been quarantined for months in sweats."

Skip: Chunky Sneakers

"Let’s leave the chunky sneakers in the back of the closet."

Skip: Distressed Clothing

"Smart styling is so much more appealing."

Skip: Neon

"While fluorescents had a fun run, opt for neutrals this season. Timeless shopping is where the world is going, be sustainable."

Skip: Micro Bags

"Tiny useless bags are great for the obligatory Instagram post, but in reality, we need something sizable and practical. I’d like to fit more than a Tic Tac in my purse."

Buy: Day-to-Night Dresses

"As 'life after quarantine' slowly starts to happen for most states, date night will become a possibility again. Day-to-night dresses are the perfect essential."

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Buy: Reimagined White Tees

"A basic but necessary staple to refresh in your closet every so often. I love the way brands are reimagining the white T-shirt with different cuts and silhouettes."

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Buy: Knee Boots

"A good boot is a must-have for the seasonal transition! I’m partial to a riding boot—investing in a good riding boot that can last you for seasons to come."

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Buy: Gold Hoops

"A gold hoop is a staple across my female clients. Gold hoops bring added interest to any outfit whether dressed up or down. Finding the right size is essential, not too big and not too small."

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Buy: Updated Bodysuit

"Bodysuits have too been reimagined. Ditch the idea of a bodysuit being athletic or super casual. Bodysuits are updated with interesting fits and necklines for a figure-grazing sleek look."

Shop:

Next: six fall basics I'm buying regardless of this year's trends.