You're Late—New Yorkers and Parisians Have Already Bought These 7 Fall Trends

If you haven't started shopping for fall yet, you're late. The fashion set is already on it, and they're quick to make things sell out before you can even get your hands on them. I am already seeing a few glimpses of fall flash before my eyes, are yes, it's true—the shopping has started. Something important to note is that it's nice to begin introducing fall elements into your wardrobe before it gets cold. Think more neutral tones, layering, and gauzy knits.
I've done a bit of scouring on my Instagram feed and chatting with Parisian and New Yorker friends to find out what things people are actually buying into at this stage of fall shopping. The results are in, and I have quite the list of forward-thinking items that you should be shopping already. Let's discuss.
1. Skinny Scarves
Skinny scarves were an emerging micro-trend at the end of last winter, meaning fashion people just got a little taste of this Y2K-era winter accessory. Come fall, fashion people will be draping themselves in this trend. Buy into it before it sells out.
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2. Minimal Cardigans
We're coming out of an era of "chunky" everything. Cardigans, shoes, bags—that ends this season. Starting with cardigans, this style will be slimmed down with a more fitted and luxe look.
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3. Cool Sneakers
Lucky for our feet, It-girl sneakers aren't going anywhere. I can't leave my apartment in New York without seeing another pair that I'm dying to try. Whether you choose Adidas Sambas or Loewe sneakers, you won't regret buying into this trend.
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4. Throwback Jackets
If you're lucky enough to have parents with a collection of jackets from the '80s and '90s, now would be a good time to ask to borrow them. Whether it's a leather trench coat, '80s-inspired blazer, or tweed jacket, what was once out is now in.
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5. Barrel-Leg Jeans
If you're having wide-leg-jeans fatigue, fear not. There is a just-as-flattering alternative on the market that I highly suggest giving a try. Barrel-leg jeans that come out at the knee and taper back in closer to the ankle are very popular among the fashion crowd. They're unlike anything we owned already and make for a fun closet update.
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6. Slip-On Loafers
There's nothing I love more than a pair of shoes that I can easily slip on when I'm heading out the door. Luckily for me, a good pair of loafers does just that and can instantly elevate an outfit. Don't sleep on this timeless shoe style.
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7. Metallic Bags
Metallics are the new neutral. If black and brown bags have always been your go-to, it's time to switch things up and give metallic bags an opportunity to shine in your wardrobe. You'll thank me later.
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Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.
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