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Trending This Fall: A Return to the Classics

Trends this fall are all about returning to the classics — plaid, checks and tweeds, structured silhouettes, and quality fabrics. Jo-Lynne Shane styles a fall look featuring the Ralph Lauren Wool Blend Reefer Coat in Sienna Plaid, with camel cashmere turtleneck, dark wash skinny jeans, and Sam Edelman Lior Loafers in saddle leather. #ad #nordstrom

Trends this fall are all about returning to the classics — plaid, checks and tweeds, structured silhouettes, and quality fabrics.

This outfit is my attempt to incorporate all of those elements into one chic, polished look that will take you just about anywhere you might need to go this fall, all available at Nordstrom!

I’m totally crushing on this wool blend reefer coat in the preppy plaid. It’s unexpected, but has a classic fit and fabric, making it the perfect topper for this outfit of timeless closet staples.

FYI, if plaid isn’t for you, it also comes in five solid colors. I have the camel and wear it a lot during fall and winter.

This coat runs a bit big, as indicated on the website. I’m wearing the 6, and as you can see, it’s a little big in the shoulders. I like that it buttons comfortably over my chunky sweater, but I might try the 4 before deciding to keep it.

All that to say, if ordering, I recommend sizing down, or maybe ordering two sizes. Nordstrom makes returns so easy, so when in doubt, it’s always best to order two sizes and return the one that doesn’t work out.

Underneath, I’m wearing a camel cashmere turtleneck and dark wash skinny jeans.

My sweater is a couple of years old, but this Halogen version is very similar, and J.Crew also has a similar style.

I have the Halogen turtleneck in the grey, so I can attest to the comfort and quality. It’s super soft against the skin, and it has a slightly relaxed fit without being oversized.

Classic pieces like cashmere turtlenecks and dark wash jeans are worth investing in because you can wear them for years and years.

My jeans are the Good American Good Legs, and I like the 11″ rise for wearing with tops I don’t want to tuck. They have a 29″ inseam, and I should probably have mine shortened about an inch. If you’re on the taller end of the spectrum, these might be a good option for you! (I’m 5’5″, for reference.)

For a more budget-friendly option, this Wit & Wisdom pair has a similar wash (click the Dark Navy) and fit.

I kept my accessories simple with a pair of large pearl studs. I love the elegant simplicity of these earrings — the perfect complement to this classic look.

Jo-Lynne Shane styles a fall look featuring the Ralph Lauren Wool Blend Reefer Coat in Sienna Plaid

A good leather handbag will also last many years if you choose a classic style. I grabbed this one without realizing it’s no longer online in my color, but it comes in black, burgundy, and blush.

If you like my cardamom color, you can find that in this tote and this wallet on chain. I also like the Treasure & Bond and Nordstrom brands for leather bags at a more affordable price point.

Finally, I went with a menswear-inspired loafer to finish off this look. Menswear-inspired styles are another hot trend this fall, and while I generally prefer more feminine silhouettes, I love a loafer with jeans for a change from my usual booties or ballet flats.

These Sam Edelman loafers are a lot softer and more comfortable than they may appear. I expected them to be stiff, but they are anything but. I wore them the first time to the mall for the afternoon, and I didn’t have any issues — they don’t rub anywhere, and the leather feels soft against the foot.

There’s a lot to be said for investing in quality wardrobe basics that can last many years. It’s fun to pick up trendy pieces here and there, but I’m really glad to see “trends” veering back into more classic styles.

Trends this fall are all about returning to the classics — plaid, checks and tweeds, structured silhouettes, and quality fabrics. Jo-Lynne Shane styles a fall look featuring the Ralph Lauren Wool Blend Reefer Coat in Sienna Plaid.

Outfit Details:

plaid coat (solid version here) // similar cashmere turtleneck (J.Crew option) // dark wash skinnies (similar for less) // leather loafers // pearl studs

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photos: Alison Cornell

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19 Responses

  1. Jo-Lynne, I love his coat. I have been looking for a plaid coat for a while. Whilst I really would like a camel one, with three little kids I feel like a plaid pattern will show up stains less, LOL. It looks so stylish on you. Are you keeping it? I would! I have a question though – I usually wear pretty sporty shoes. Either high top or low top leather trainers (or sneakers, in US English!) Do you think that would work still? 

  2. This is definitely a very classy and sophisticated look, and you look nice in it.  If I was still in corporate America, I would wear this outfit.  Oh wait, my former employer now has a very casual work environment and attire now, so this outfit would be considered dressy.  Enjoy your more open calendar day!  I am very happy to report that Fall has finally arrived down here!  Yay!!

  3. I’m loving the plaid trend. It’s classic so worth the investment of a good piece (jacket/coat/blazer). And, you can’t go wrong with a dark wash jean. They can take you so many places, depending on your top. What I really love is your bag! 💕 I love the color, the structure and the chain/leather strap. Too bad the cardamom color is sold out. 

  4. I just ordered The Elinor Loafer and the Kensington Check coat from Madewell 😉I love the look of plaid coats with the loafers . Sooo cute on you. 

  5. This entire outfit looks great on you JoLynne.  You’ve said before you’re a “winter” coloring but you look fabulous in the camel color sweater and plaid coat which would be considered more “autumn” coloring.  Not sure how you can pull that off but I would look sickly in those colors.  

    Can you please explain the thought process why no one should wear a turtleneck?  You would think there would we a body shape that would be enhanced by a turtleneck?  

    1. I should add – I do think that more open necklines are generally more flattering on everyone. And women with smaller chests and longer necks will look better in turtlenecks than the rest of us.

      With my short neck, square shoulders, and large chest, they really aren’t my most flattering style, but it gets to a certain temperature, and I don’t care. LOL!

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