This post is sponsored by Nordstrom. As always, all opinions and product selections are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible.
Contrary to how it might feel when you scroll Instagram, you don’t need to reinvent your wardrobe every fall. A few new pieces and some simple styling updates can make the clothes you already own feel fresh again.
As I shopped this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I noticed some of the same themes popping up over and over again. They weren’t flashy trends, but small shifts in color, texture, proportions, and styling that you can easily incorporate into your existing wardrobe. Today I’m sharing nine easy style updates to consider, along with how I’m wearing them this season.
Sizing Notes: I found sizing rather inconsistent this year, so I’ve listed the size I’m wearing in everything featured below. My current true size is a 29 in jeans and an 8½ in most shoes, but I still fall between a small and medium in tops and jackets.
The Pieces Making the Biggest Impact
You certainly don’t need all of these, but even adding one or two can make your wardrobe feel fresh this season.
1. Stand-Collar Jacket
A stand-collar jacket is a fresh alternative to a denim jacket or blazer that instantly gives simple outfits a more modern feel.
Caslon Bubble Hem Jacket (S) // AllSaints Stevie (M) // PAIGE Anessa (29) // Madewell Skinny Belt (M) // YSL sunnies // Steve Madden Lela Flats (8.5) // similar bangle set // Open Edit Pendant Set
I’m seeing this silhouette everywhere this season, from cropped canvas styles and leather bombers to bubble-hem jackets. Throw one on over a tee and jeans, a lightweight sweater, or even a casual dress, and your outfit instantly feels more current.
The Caslon Bubble Hem Cotton Twill Jacket I’m wearing here is one of my favorite finds from this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and comes in two versatile colors: a classic olive green and a warm tan. At under $100 during the sale, it’s a great value, too.
For more of a splurge, I also really like the AllSaints Clay Suede Jacket and the AllSaints Ryder Suede Jacket.
2. Short-Sleeve Sweater
A short-sleeve sweater is a timeless piece that feels especially fresh this season. More polished than a basic tee but just as easy to wear, it’s one of the most versatile pieces you can add to your wardrobe.
Nordstrom Short-Sleeve Cashmere Sweater in Tan Camel Dark Heather (S) // Madewell Suede Keeper Belt in Dark Carob (M) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (not on sale; sale pair) // similar beaded necklace // link necklace (not on sale) // beaded bracelet set (not on sale)
I’m wearing the Nordstrom Short-Sleeve Cashmere Sweater here, but you can find similar styles in cotton, merino wool, and cashmere at every price point.
This one has a relaxed fit, feels incredibly soft, and is an excellent value for the price. I like it so much I bought it in three colors!
KUT from the Kloth Matilda (S) // Nordstrom Short-Sleeve Cashmere Sweater (S) // Madewell Suede Keeper Belt (M) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (not on sale; sale pair) // similar beaded necklace // link necklace // left: Marc Fisher Sasha (8.5) // right: Maddox Mesh Flats (8)
Pair it with jeans now, then layer it under jackets, blazers, and cardigans as the weather cools. And if you really want to make it feel current, try draping a sweater over your shoulders.
3. The Sweater Drape
One of the easiest ways to make a simple outfit feel more current this fall is to drape a sweater over your shoulders. It’s more of a styling trick than a new purchase, but not every sweater works equally well.
The Nordstrom Cashmere Crewneck, V-Neck, and Cardigan are all perfect for this because they’re lightweight, incredibly soft, and drape beautifully without adding bulk.
Nordstrom Short Sleeve Cashmere Sweater (S) // Nordstrom Cashmere V-Neck Cardigan (S) // PAIGE Stevie Straight Leg Jeans (28)
You can simply drape it over your shoulders and let the sleeves hang down, or loosely tie them in front. It works beautifully over tees, short-sleeve sweaters, button-down shirts, and even dresses.
I especially love this look when the sweater you’re wearing and the one draped over your shoulders are the same color, or a similar tone, as I did here. That monochromatic layering feels especially modern and sophisticated.
Nordstrom Short Sleeve Cashmere Sweater (S) // Nordstrom Cashmere V-Neck Cardigan (S) // PAIGE Stevie Straight Leg Jeans (28) // Vince Camuto Mayenni Bootie (8.5) // AllSaints Alba Shine Leather Crossbody
I took it a step further here with an all-black outfit. The slight fading on the black jeans and the pointy-toe leather boots keep the look from feeling too flat or one-dimensional while adding a bit of texture and interest.
The only thing I’d add is a pair of chunky resin bangles or a larger earring, which happens to be another one of my favorite wardrobe updates for fall.Speaking of accessories, this fall is all about adding a little more personality with bold jewelry.
4. A Bold Accessory
Delicate jewelry will always have a place in my wardrobe, but this fall I’m reaching for pieces with a little more presence. Chunky resin bangles, sculptural cuffs, beaded necklaces, bold pendants, and larger earrings instantly make even the simplest outfit feel more polished.
Set of 2 Resin Bangles // AllSaints Alba Shine Leather Crossbody
The key is balance. You don’t have to wear everything at once. One standout piece is often enough to elevate a basic tee and jeans or add interest to a monochromatic outfit.
Set of 2 Resin Bangles // Madewell Shrunken Leather Zip Jacket (M) // PAIGE Meara Sleeveless Knit Top (M) // PAIGE Anessa (29) // Jenny Bird Gemma Hoops
I’ve especially been loving this set of resin bangles from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. They’re lightweight, comfortable to wear, and add just the right amount of interest. I usually wear them stacked together, but each one looks just as good on its own.
Set of 2 Resin Bangles // Nordstrom Cashmere Crewneck Sweater in Beige Beach (M) // Nordstrom Cashmere Hoodie in Brown Mole (S) // PAIGE Anessa in Vintage Champagne Stone (28) // Vince Vivian // Madewell Suede Keeper Belt (M) // Jenny Bird Gemma Hoops
If resin isn’t your style, the same idea applies to a sculptural gold cuff, a pair of chunky hoops, a larger pendant, or one of the black cord necklaces that are everywhere right now. The goal is simply to add a little more personality than the delicate everyday jewelry many of us have been wearing for the past several years.
5. Mesh or Perforated Flats
If you’re looking for an easy way to update your shoe collection this fall, consider swapping your basic leather flats for a mesh or perforated style. They add texture and interest to an outfit while still feeling classic and easy to wear.
Nordstrom Cashmere Crewneck Sweater in Beige Beach (M) // Nordstrom Cashmere Hoodie in Brown Mole (S) // PAIGE Anessa in Vintage Champagne Stone (28) // Nordstrom Maddox Mesh Flat in Brown Raisin (8) // Vince Vivian // Madewell Suede Keeper Belt (M) // Jenny Bird Gemma Hoops // resin bangles
I picked up the Nordstrom Maddox Mesh Flats during this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and they’ve quickly become one of my favorite purchases. The mesh is subtle enough that your toes aren’t completely visible, making them a great option if you’ve been hesitant to try the mesh flat trend.
They’re also surprisingly comfortable, reasonably priced, and come in three great colors: brown (which I’m wearing here), black, and burgundy.
If mesh isn’t your style, a perforated suede Mary Jane is another great option. I also picked up the Steve Madden Lela Perforated Mary Jane Flats, and I love the grommeted strap and mixed-metal hardware.
If you’re looking to splurge, the rag & bone Spire Perforated Mary Jane Flat is gorgeous, and I’ve also heard great things about the Vionic Alameda Woven Mary Jane Flats.
6. Chocolate Brown Boots
If you’ve been wearing black boots with everything for years, consider adding a pair in rich chocolate brown this fall. It’s one of those subtle updates that makes familiar outfits feel fresh without being overly trendy.
KUT from the Kloth Matilda (S) // Nordstrom Short-Sleeve Cashmere Sweater (S) // Madewell Suede Keeper Belt (M) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (not on sale; sale pair) // Marc Fisher Sasha Pointed Toe Bootie (8.5) // similar beaded necklace // link necklace //
Chocolate brown pairs beautifully with denim, olive, camel, cream, gray, burgundy, and even black.
I picked up the Marc Fisher Sasha Bootie in rich brown suede during this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. It’s a beautiful dressier option with a sleek pointed toe and a slender tapered 2½-inch heel that’s walkable yet so chic.
For everyday wear, the Steve Madden Define Bootie comes in a rich chocolate brown suede. I had a very similar Steve Madden boot from last year’s #NSale that I wore constantly, so I was excited to see this style return. I actually picked it up in the black leather this year, since I already have a brown suede pair.
Steve Madden Define Bootie (8) // PAIGE Stevie (28)
The lower 1¼-inch slanted block heel and blunt toe make it incredibly comfortable and practical, and it’s a great casual option for jeans and everyday outfits.
And if you’ve always thought brown wasn’t your color, don’t write it off just yet. Deep chocolate and espresso shades often have cool undertones, so they work well even if warm earth tones aren’t your favorite.
Plus, since your boots aren’t next to your face, they’re much easier to wear than a brown sweater or jacket. Pair them with colors you already love, like shades of blue, green, and any wash of denim, and finish the look with a bag that complements the boots.
7. Dark Wash Denim
Light wash denim isn’t going anywhere, but dark wash jeans are making a strong comeback this fall. They’re an easy way to make your everyday outfits feel a little more polished.
Madewell Shrunken Leather Zip Jacket (M) // PAIGE Meara Sleeveless Knit Top (M) // PAIGE Anessa (29) // Sam Edelman Brandy Mesh Mule (8) // Jenny Bird Gemma Hoops // Set of 2 Resin Bangles // AllSaints Alba Shine Leather Crossbody
Dark wash denim pairs beautifully with all of this season’s key colors, especially chocolate brown, olive, burgundy, gray, and cream. It also creates a dressier look, making it easy to take a simple sweater and jeans from casual daytime errands to dinner out with just a change of shoes and accessories.
One of my favorite finds from this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale was the PAIGE Anessa in the Willat wash. The rich, clean dark wash feels timeless, and I love the slimmer wide-leg silhouette.
Caslon Bubble Hem Jacket (S) // AllSaints Stevie (M) // PAIGE Anessa (29) // Madewell Skinny Belt (M) // YSL sunnies // Steve Madden Lela Flats (8.5) // Tory Burch crossbody // similar bangle set // Open Edit Pendant Set
Sadly, inventory is getting depleted, but keep an eye out for restocks. Also, the Joe’s Mia is a nice alternative that is part of the sale and still fully stocked.
And if wide-leg jeans aren’t your thing, don’t worry. The update isn’t the cut, it’s the darker wash. Whether you prefer straight-leg, slim, bootcut, or flare jeans, a pair in a deep indigo wash is a worthwhile addition to your wardrobe.
8. Textured Bags
A great bag can completely change the feel of an outfit, and this fall it’s all about texture. Woven materials, suede, and glossy glazed leather bring depth and richness to even the simplest jeans-and-sweater combination.
Vince Medium Vivian Woven Leather Hobo Bag // Set of 2 Resin Bangles
One of my favorite discoveries from this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale was the Vince Vivian Hobo. I didn’t really notice it online, but when I walked by it in the store, I fell in love with its oversized, relaxed silhouette and the rich espresso brown woven fabric with black leather trim.
It’s beautifully made and has the understated elegance I love. Even better, it’s the kind of bag you can start carrying now and continue wearing well into fall.
Vince Medium Vivian Woven Leather Hobo // Short-Sleeve Cashmere Sweater (S) // Madewell Suede Keeper Belt (M) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (not on sale; sale pair) // similar beaded necklace // link necklace
I’m also loving the Alba Shine Leather Crossbody and Alba Shine Leather Shoulder Bag from AllSaints. The glossy finish, extra-wide straps, and brushed silver hardware give them a modern, slightly edgy feel.
AllSaints Alba Shine Leather Crossbody // / Madewell Shrunken Leather Zip Jacket (M) // PAIGE Anessa (29)
There are also some nice suede styles, like the Tory Burch Limited Edition Convertible Crossbody and Limited Edition Tote, offer a softer, more classic look.
Tory Burch Limited Edition Convertible Crossbody // Nordstrom Cashmere Hoodie (S) // PAIGE Anessa (28)
Whatever you choose, look for rich texture and elevated hardware. Those small details can instantly make familiar outfits feel fresh for fall.
9. Beyond Basic Sweaters
If your sweater collection is full of solid pullovers, consider adding a knit with a little more personality. Details like ribbing, pointelle stitching, textured cotton knits, or an interesting neckline can make a simple outfit feel more polished without sacrificing versatility.
The AllSaints Cruz Ribbed Cardigan is one of my favorite finds from this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. The stretchy rib knit, flattering V-neck, and spread collar give it a tailored look that pairs beautifully with everything from jeans to trousers.
AllSaints Cruz Ribbed Cardigan (M) // PAIGE Stevie High Waist Straight Leg Jeans (28) // Steve Madden Define Bootie (8) // Jenny Bird Gemma Hoops // Open Edit Pendant Set
I also love the Madewell Button Front Cotton Crewneck Cardigan for a more relaxed option. The textured 100% cotton knit, split crewneck, and subtle drop shoulders give it an easy, laid-back feel while still looking polished.
Madewell Button Front Cotton Crewneck Cardigan (S) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (not on sale; sale pair) // Steve Madden Lela Flats (8.5) //
Finally, I always enjoy having a few sleeveless sweaters in my rotation, and the PAIGE Meara Top is my favorite right now. The fine organic cotton and silk blend feels incredibly soft, while the pointelle stitching and ribbed details add just enough interest to elevate a simple pair of jeans or tailored pants.
Plus, the rich oxblood color pairs beautifully with dark wash denim, black, or gray, and its especially flattering if you have cool coloring.
PAIGE Meara Sleeveless Knit Top (M) // PAIGE Anessa (29) // Sam Edelman Brandy Mesh Mule (8) // Jenny Bird Gemma Hoops // Set of 2 Resin Bangles // AllSaints Alba Shine Leather Crossbody
Closing Thoughts
The best part about these updates is that you don’t need to embrace all of them to make an impact. Choosing just one or two that fit your personal style can breathe new life into the pieces you already own.
Whether that’s adding a textured bag, trying chocolate brown instead of black, or swapping a basic pullover for a knit with a little more personality, these small changes are often what make a wardrobe feel current without chasing every trend.
I’d love to hear which of these updates is your favorite. Are there any you’re planning to try this fall, or have you already spotted another trend that’s caught your eye?
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17 Responses
#2 I have a few, they are great for late fall and into winter. #6 I have just one pair, because I only need them a few times a year as the climate where I live is just too warm most of the time for boots or booties. #7 All of my jeans are mid to dark wash. That’s about it for me for these fall trends. The concept of a textured bag (#8) is intriguing, but I haven’t yet found one that appeals to me.
I’m so pleased that brown is forward this year! I’ve long preferred it over black, especially as I age.
I’m curious on the hard/stiff bracelets… do you remove them often throughout the day? Like to type or write? Each time I try one that’s my first thought. Also, my first hard bracelet “want” is the Cartier so there’s that! Ha! Perhaps in Paris …..
I’m excited to get my Stevie, they’ve shipped and with all my heart I need them to be perfect so I can check that box as done. Also excited to get the short sleeve cashmere and sleeveless Paige sweaters. I also got the beige you model above, no other colors though. I’ve always loved a short sleeve sweater and am thankful it’s part of what we see out there!
Quick question. I noticed you have the short sleeve cashmere sweater in small, but also the long sleeve one in medium. I just ordered two and am now questioning my sizing choices. Should I be jumping in and ordering the other size? Typically I wear the same size as you! Thanks.
The short sleeve one has a more relaxed fit. The long sleeve crewneck has more of a classic fit. I have the black and a small in the beige in a medium. They both fit , it just depends on the look you are going for. I prefer the smaller layering in the medium for wearing by itself, but they can both be worn interchangeably.
Thanks! I just jumped in and ordered the small as well, in case they sell out. Will have to decide when I try them both on.
Great post. I don’t know how you ordered and styled and shot these looks so quick. You look great. I really haven’t thought Fall yet. lol Great job and looking forward to shopping tomorrow if I see anything and have to have it. lol I’m thinking the mesh flat you showed here. I need black. Do they run true to size? I usually wear a 7.
Yes I’d say they’re true to size
Jo-Lynne, these are wonderful suggestions!
I also wanted to hop on here to tell you WOW, YOU GO GIRL! In your dressing room photos from Nordy this week you just look glowing, slim, strong and so beautiful, and — most and best of all — happy in your skin again. The hard work, self-love and self-care you’ve put into your wellness journey this spring and summer has been inspiring and obviously a big success. I’m just thrilled for you!
PS You look just as fabulous in the pix in this post — not just in the Nordy dressing room! 🙂
I love your coverage of this sale every year and this year especially. You bring fresh ideas … I keep finding myself say, “That’s a great idea!” as I read through your articles. I really like that oxblood sleeveless top you styled. I just popped it into my wish list. I have ordered a few things I liked in darker shades of brown (something I have nothing of in my closet) So I’m happy to see how that looks for a little shake up this year.
I already have a few of these things from last year. Love the dark jeans are still trending.
I have dark wash denim in wide, bootcut, and straight, brown suede boots, bold accessories covered. Interesting thing is i don’t have any black taller booties so I am adding the Steve Madden Define bootie in black. Also I love that Madewell Shrunken Leather jacket. I feel it’s an update to the Moto Style I like. Still gives me a little bit of edginess to my wardrobe.
Some of these updates are already incorporated into my wardrobe, such as dark denim and a stand-collar jacket. I have recently gotten more inquiries as to where I got my jacket (Loft-2 years ago) than ever before. They’re definitely on trend, yet classic enough to be worn for years to come.
I really like the idea of wearing the same color of sweater as a base and tied around the shoulders. A modern take on a twin-set, which is a little too classic for me. Really, I like all these updates and if the AllSaints Alba bag in black had silver hardware, it would be mine (I already have black with gold).
The monochromatic outfit with a draped sweater is my favorite. I love that look and want to copy that for the rest of the summer and into fall and winter! Can you show a picture of your sweater draping over your shoulders from the back? Or even a video showing how to do it? I could use some help!
I haven’t seen you mention the Jcrew cashmere sale? How does their cashmere compare to Nordstrom’s? Also what size do you wear in the black Jcrew cardigan you’ve shown several times? You look great! Thanks!
I mentioned it in last Saturday’s substack sale roundup! 🙂 I wear the small in that cardigan, and in general, J.Crew’s cashmere seems very high quality.
The Nordstrom cashmere is lightweight and pills easily. It’s definitely a low grade cashmere. I’d say it’s on par with Quince cashmere, maybe a tad better. It’s definitely not worth full price. The J Crew cashmere is higher quality and worth the splurge in my opinion.