I fell in love with NYC in the fall, and not for the reasons you might think. The changing leaves and brisk autumn air are a mere backdrop to the fall fashion show of Manhattan’s stylish set. The sidewalks transform into a runway, and the subway turnstiles welcome the transition from summer linens to the rich, sumptuous fashions of autumn.
Strutting down Third Avenue is the classic New Yorker, dressed in a pair of '90s-inspired blue straight-leg jeans and a cashmere crewneck topped with the fall staple: a belted trench coat. I’ve never seen a better sweater-and-jacket collection than the ones on Manhattanites. I study their fall fashion choices, such as pairing an old-money barn jacket with a pair of flared trousers or how they know suede looks its best on a chic ballet flat or a slouchy hobo bag. With expensive-looking taste, I’d bet the NYC fall fashion person shops at these eight brands. And they just so happen to be my favorite fall fashion brands too.
Below are the best places to shop for fall fashion. Discover high-quality knitwear, sturdy denim, and autumn-ready jackets (the funnel-neck style is already an editor favorite) from Massimo Dutti, Madewell, COS, Reformation, and more. Take a page out of this NYC girl’s fall fashion playbook, and peruse the best places to shop for a fashionable fall closet.
Massimo Dutti
I recently rediscovered Massimo Dutti when a fellow WWW editor shared the new High Neck Bomber Puff Jacket in a meeting. The sporty funnel-neck style is already giving moto jackets a run for their money this season. While the high-neck style is currently sold out, I was distracted by the beautiful wool sweaters and other top-notch jacket designs. Tasteful and smart-looking, Massimo Dutti has easily become one of my favorite fall fashion brands.
Madewell
Madewell's jeans are next-level. The quality and cut of its Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jean and Vintage Flare Jean are absolute knockouts.
COS
My most recent purchase from COS was a pair of capri trousers. I’ve worn them nonstop. Easy to style and well-crafted, COS designs a great pair of trousers. But what I’m really eyeing on its site is its knitwear collection, specifically its wools and cashmeres. Check out the five autumn-ready finds that are currently in my COS cart.
Nordstrom
If you ask any WWW shopping editor where the best places to shop for fall fashion are, I guarantee you they will say Nordstrom—specifically, Nordstrom’s in-house brand. Its designs are always on-trend, decently priced, and crafted to last. Here are just a few finds that our editors have been loving.
Reformation
If it’s Ref, I want it. I always start with its denim selection. With a wide range of fits from '90s-inspired straight-leg jeans to wide-leg styles, Reformation knows what fall fashion is all about. Our editors have been loving the striped sweaters, lace-trim skirts, and polka-dot style (because it looks like the print is here to stay).
J.Crew
J.Crew. J.Crew. J.Crew. That’s it. If you're shopping for anything new this fall, go to J.Crew. Jeans, sweaters, trousers, ballet flats, totes… Everything is chic, well-made, and designed to work with you. I recommend going in person to try on its pieces so you can find exactly what you love and also because its in-store experience is always so lovely. I have a blast every time I’m in the SoHo location.
Gap
Gap is cool again! I’ve been obsessed with its basics lately. From crewneck sweaters to classic button-downs, it is my new go-to for everyday pieces. Between its sophisticated silhouettes and elevated fits, I’m so excited to see what Gap unveils next.
Damson Madder
If you ask an NYC cool girl where she got her quirky striped button-down, chances are it's Damson Madder. You can shop a selection of its designs at Nordstrom. Colorful and fun-loving, Damson Madder is for those who love a funky print, subversive detailing, and playful silhouettes. Take a look at a few of its designs below. The Ella Trench Coat is so darling.
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