Let's be honest: It seems summer came as quickly as it left. And though we'll miss the days of wearing our favorite tee and flip flops, fall fashion welcomes nothing but coziness, especially when it comes to how we accessorize.
While throwing on a big coat over a buttoned cardigan is sufficient for staying warm in the fall, the right accessories can equally elevate an outfit and make it more practical for bracing the cold. For instance, aside from warmth, a cashmere scarf or hat can add a bit of texture to a look. And a functional statement bag or belt can be the finishing touch we overlooked.
Sharing some ways to accessorize for fall is TODAY contributor and stylist Melissa Garcia. Some of which are seasonal trends that will last year over year, and others you might already own, from warm tights for layering to woven bags.
Keep reading to discover the best fall accessories and trends to shop, according to an expert.
Best fall accessories to shop seen on Jenna & Friends
Gone are the days of ripped tights. This pick from Sheertex has a rip-resistant technology for confident wear, so you can easily style with dresses, skirts, and more this fall and winter. According to the brand, you even receive 10 times more wear from their tights compared to other brands! The brand offers them in many colors, including nude.
“Textured accessories are a big part of the fall story — anything woven, ribbed, quilted,” says Garcia. “Texture adds depth and makes pieces look way more expensive than they may be,” she adds, like this under $30 pick from Amazon. Available in over 12 colors and prints, it will surely add a bit of contrast to your fall wardrobe.
"Ponchos are having a major moment because this season we are seeing a lot of oversized layers," explains Garcia, like the pick above. It's effortlessly dressy and cozy, and easy to "throw over a button-down, a turtleneck or even that plaid shirt you already own — great piece to have with you when you travel."
Riding boots are all the rage this fall. Their slim design makes them appealing to wear with slim jeans or tights, specifically, including the pick above. "These are great because [they] have a low heel, padded footbed and subtle style details, making this an incredibly versatile, comfortable and on-trend boot," the stylist raves. Shop it in both regular and wide calf.
According to Garcia, plaid is the print you'll want to wear this fall. Hence why she recommends this plaid flannel from Old Navy, which she suggests you can "wear with everything from jeans to trousers" over a tank or tied around your waist.
More fall accessory trends to shop
Wear over your shoulders, wrapped around your neck or tied to your bag; there are endless ways to style this square scarf from Quince.
You won't need any additional accessories with this belt from Target, as its gold details make a statement on their own.
Sunglasses are a year-round staple, and this retro pair embodies two trends: small frames and a rich, chocolate-brown color.
A solid hoop earring can instantly make you feel dressed up. We’re loving this option from Pavoi, a top-rated Amazon brand, as it’s lightweight, hypoallergenic and under $15.
When the temperatures dip, these fleece-lined tights will keep you warm and allow you to continue to wear your favorite styles.
One Shop TODAY contributor said these affordable and bestselling flats were comfortable and easy to style.
Whether to wear as an everyday bag or as your work tote, this Old Navy bucket tote is equally trendy for fall as it is practical.
This Uniqlo mini shoulder bag was a fan favorite for our recent Fan Fest, mainly for its surprisingly spacious design. It’s no wonder it has sold out multiple times.
For when your hair isn't being so forgiving, a baseball cap, like the pick above from Lululemon, is the perfect accessory for unpredictable hair days.
From cowboy boots to bootcut jeans, western-themed apparel is what's trending for fall. This belt set includes three versatile belts to style with a pair of jeans or over a dress.
Barn jackets have been trending big time this fall season, and this option from Amazon Essentials is the perfect layering piece. It features a cinched waist that looks great buttoned up or worn open.
Time for a shoe upgrade? The Adidas Women's Grand Court 2.0 is constantly a viral favorite, and just so happens to be up to 30% off in select colors.
For when the weather doesn't require a bulky jacket, a poncho comes in handy for keeping you warm on brisk nights. We're eyeing this cashmere pick from Quince, which instantly elevates any outfit.
Ballet flats are another fall accessory that's been trending year-round. These best-selling Madewell flats are currently on our radar, from their round-toe to adjustable buckle.
Our team often has nothing but good things to say about Rothy’s. From their contoured footbed to machine-washable design, there’s a lot to love about them. The brand just released a new line for fall, including the fast-selling The Cozy Buckle Clog, which has all of the same details we adore.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time. Learn more about Shop TODAY.
Meet the expert
Our team features a range of qualified experts and contributors in our broadcast segments to reveal the latest in trends, remarkable sale events and all things shopping across a variety of categories. Products were independently chosen by members of the Shop TODAY team, along with Melissa Garcia.
- Melissa Garcia is a Shop TODAY lifestyle and fashion contributor. She has experience working on national brand campaigns, appearing on major television broadcasts and hosting fashion events for commerce destinations. With a relatable approach and her own eye-catching personal style, Garcia has become a go-to fashion resource in American media.
- Shop TODAY Our team features a range of qualified experts and contributors in our broadcast segments to reveal the latest in trends, remarkable sale events and all things shopping across a variety of categories. Products were independently chosen by members of the Shop TODAY team, along with Melissa Garcia.
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