The Only 10 Fashion Items You’ll Need This Fall

I’m hesitant to admit this publicly, as wishing away summer is close to a cardinal sin, especially ’round these parts, but I’m — deep breath — ready for fall. It’s not the sunny weather I mind, or the calmer days (even looming deadlines seem less desperate in summer). It’s that this fall’s styles speak to me — ’70s bohemia, tons of texture, heaps of accessories — in a way that tank tops, sandals and sundresses don’t.

Even if you’re desperately trying to cling to the last vestiges of summer (we still have one more month!), I promise you: This fall’s fashion will make the end of summer bearable. The collections have already begun creeping into stores, but it’s easy to be overwhelmed (Victorian! Goth! Hippie!). So I’ve boiled down the trends into the top 10. Think of this as your new-season shopping list.

1. A pair of flared pants.
The ’70s are back in a big way, and investing in one on-trend item, like a flared jean, is an easy way to dip your toe into the style. Wear with a pair of platforms for a long-legged look.
Lust: Sonia Rykiel flared jeans, $581.49.
Must: 7 For All Mankind high-rise flared jeans, $189.

2. A low block heel.
Save the stilettos: The best way to finish off a look now is with a pair of coolly prim, low, chunky-heeled shoes. They look great with cropped slim-cut jeans (yes, you can still get away with these),  and completely adorable with cocktail dresses.
Lust: Rochas crystal-embellished satin pumps, $1,050.
Must: Asos pom-pom pointed-toe heels, $63.

3. A long-sleeved floral chiffon dress.
Wear with a leather moto jacket for a spot-on fall look.
Lust: Chloé printed ruffled peasant gown, $11,595.
Must: Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent paisley dress, $284.

4. A suede skirt.
Suede started coming out in full force this summer (really), but it’s one of fall’s best materials. Pair a suede skirt with boots and a thin turtleneck sweater. Bonus points if you add #5 on top.
Lust: The Row Kima suede skirt, $3,450. 
Must: Zara suede skirt, $69.90.

5. A shearling coat.
It’s less divisive than fur, and much more versatile.
Lust: Acne Studios Velocite oversized shearling moto jacket, $2,800.
Must: Faux shearling coat, $129.90 (on sale for $59.99).

6. A chunky-knit sweater.
This  fall’s knits are thicker than ever. Take your sweaters big and bulky—just remember to pair with a slim bottom for balanced proportion.
Lust: Stella McCartney fisherman’s rib cardigan, $1,140.
Must: Tibi Bubble pullover, $395.

7. A simple slip dress.
The minimalist, skin-skimming nineties staple resurfaces — and it’s better than ever. Layer over a thin turtleneck sweater for day; pile on a fur gilet for night.
Lust: Rag & Bone silk charmeuse slip dress, $495.
Must: Club Monaco Elowen silk dress, $249.

8. A pair of major earrings.
This fall, earrings still hold strong as the standout accessory. Wear them as a matching set, wear only one at a time, choose an ear jacket that blossoms behind the ear, or mix two pairs together, but wear them.
Lust: Marni resin earrings, $360.
Must: Kenneth Jay Lane tassel earrings, $27.

9. A blanket scarf/cape.
One of fashion’s most versatile, wearable pieces that seems to come back every year (remember last year’s Burberry poncho?).
Lust: Fendi colorblock tweed poncho, $1,500. 
Must: New Look colorblock blanket wrap, $46.

10. A splash of bright faux fur.
More playful than traditional tonal fur, and way more statement-making.
Lust: Les Petits Joueurs Daliah fur pom-pom bucket bag, $990.
Must: Asos bright multi-color scarf, $54.