Fall Wishlist: Part VI

3. Sturdy chic shoes

After months of strappy heels and delicate sandals, there's something nice about a big chunky shoe to help ground your fall looks. I like something that's a little tough, a little nerdy, and a little airy. A kind of boot/shoe/sandal hybrid, like this:

DKNY Rayna Monk Strap Ankle Boot -- a tough little biker chic boot, perfect with pants and dresses. The heel height (and little toe platform) make them really walkable.

3.1 Phillip Lim 'Claridge' Bootie -- these are an investment piece for sure. I love the pretty feminine twists on a menswear inspired boot -- the stacked wooden heel and lattice work detail are great touches.

Thakoon Bassy Clog Sandal -- I may have mentioned these one or twenty times. They are perfect and would be in my closet except for the height. At almost 5'9", I really don't need to be tottering around on a 5" platform. Could I bring them to Home Depot and have someone saw a couple of inches off?

M. Gemi Urbano -- I haven't seen any M. Gemi shoes in person but I've heard good things, and this chic bootie seems worth a shot.

All of my guy friends are obsessed with fantasy football right now, but I like thinking of my blog as my fantasy fashion league. Let's pretend those gorgeous Thakoon sandals were sitting in my closet...

I could put together a million office-ready outfits around these shoes. They're perfect with your favorite polished separates -- I like to mix in some of my favorite warm weather pieces, like this pale pink blazer, to lighten up fall looks . They're also great party shoes. You could also bundle these up a for a great nighttime look later in the year -- add tights, a full skirt, and a fitted velvet blazer and you're party-ready. And very, very tall.

4. Cozy Weekend Top

I live for fall weekends -- they're always a great mix of running around outside enjoying the cool temps and fresh air and hunkering down inside for good eats, good books, and football. You'll need a few cozy tops that will let you partake in all of those activities -- here are some good ones:

Banana Republic Colorblock Jacquard Sweatshirt -- this sweatshirt has a very cool texture, I'm dying to see it in person.

J. Crew Factory Intarsia Wraparound Dachshund Sweater -- totally adorable, particularly if you have a doxie in your life. This sold out quickly online but sizes pop up every so often -- check for it in your local store, too.

Alexa Chung for AG Scarlet Cotton Sweater -- simple and perfect.

Loft Lou and Grey Mixup Cardigan -- I bought something similar at Forever 21 last year and I adore it. Very cozy and relaxed, you can throw it on over just about everything.

There are plenty of ways to wear a comfy, cozy top without looking sloppy. My test is always asking myself "what if I ran into Tim Gunn in this outfit?" before leaving the house (that made a bit more sense when I lived in New York, but you get the drift):

For the laziest of days, you can wear a cozy sweatshirt with some leggings and cute sneakers -- just make sure the sweatshirt fits really well and your leggings are nice and thick. This is perfect for spending the afternoon at home, and maybe making a quick run to the store for more snacks. When you need to bundle up for a football game or some pumpkin picking, swap the leggings for toothpick jeans and add a peacoat and boots. Tim would approve.

Fall Wishlist: Part V

1. Go-To Dress

Dresses have always been a staple of my work wardrobe, and I'm always ready to add another to my closet. For fall, I looking for a dress with a great print, bold color, amazing shape: a go-to dress. The kind that makes you look amazing with little to no effort (a life saver on a busy morning). If this sounds good to you, here are my favorite from this season:

Paul and Joe Sister Iphigenie Collar Dress -- I love this dress. A very grown-up way to live out my private school uniform fantasies.

Zara Faux Leather Dress -- all of the comfort and convenience of wearing your favorite striped t-shirt.

Boden Printed Shirt Dress -- the dress shape is classic and tailored, the print is bananas. Perfect combination.

Anthropologie Gallica Silk Shirtdress -- the ultra feminine floral print and traditional shape are very Betty Draper, but with the right accessories I think it would be sweet, not costume-y.

I really want all of these dresses, but I'm really loving the Boden shirt dress. It looks like grandma's couch, in the coolest possible way.

The nice thing about a go-to dress is that you really don't need to fuss with it. This isn't the dress that you're going to radically transform each time you wear it -- everyone will remember it, so keep it simple. For early fall I'd wear just a few cool rings, a little messenger bag, and simple, neutral shoes. When it gets cold, throw on a cozy coat and some tights and let that dress do it's thang.

2. Something Lavender

There are some colors that evoke happy memories of rustling leaves blah, blah, blah... And then there's a crazy bright shade of purple that doesn't scream fall at all, but somehow seems perfect. This bright, incredibly flattering shade seems to be everywhere this season, and why not. It's great on its own, but think about how perfectly it pairs with navy, gray, green, burgundy, and all of those classic fall colors. When you're building your fall wardrobe, consider picking up something in this unexpected but happy shade:

Boden Betty Ottoman Dress -- this super ladylike dress comes in a rainbow of colors (the green is amazing), but I'd be willing to bet you don't own anything in this lovely dusty lavender shade. Really unique, really pretty.

Boden Sophia Knitted Top -- the shape and texture of this sweater is really interesting, and this brighter purple shade makes me happy.

Botkier Trigger Small Satchel -- a cool bold bag, and you can pretty much guarantee that you'll be the only one in the room carrying it.

J. Crew Collection Cashmere T-Shirt -- a great, fresh layering piece.

Here are some ideas for working this shade into your look over the next few months:

I'm not really great at putting together casual weekend looks. I tend to live in my beloved athleisure wear, running around town in spandex and other sweat-wicking material. But if I did get my act together to put on real clothes, this sweater would be perfect with some relaxed olive cargo pants and sparkly flats for my usual Saturday Target run/Chipotle feast (a glamorous life, for sure). I also love it with cooler shades like navy and gray for a cold weather outfit -- wide leg pants, a great coat, and some fun shoes to pull it all together.

Fall Wishlist: Not-So Basics

Hey, we made it through the first half of my Fall Wishlist -- whew! I originally thought I'd post every day, but you know what? That's a lot of damn work. I need more hours in the day. (If you missed anything, you can head back to the start of the series, or catch up with any of the other posts here, here, here, and here.)

Last week I looked at some of those traditional pieces that you typically associate with fall and probably have been buying every year since you started shopping for yourself: cashmere, denim, deep rich color. And classic pieces are awesome (sometimes you feel like a nut). But I also have a list of things that are a little less expected (sometimes you don't). They're not the pieces that immediately scream fall, but they're still great buys this season. These are fun to mix and match with those classic pieces and the rest of your wardrobe to help you create some amazing fall looks that are just really...you.

I'm kicking things off with two of my FAVORITE categories on this list, so check back tomorrow (spoiler alert: you'll probably want everything).

Fall Wishlist: Part IV

7. Deep Dark Oxblood

More than any other season, fall is defined by a color palette. There are some colors, like oxblood, that evoke happy, cozy feelings of rustling leaves, warm fires, spiced cider. It is hot and muggy in Florida today, so I'm going to try to jumpstart fall with a few pieces in this deep, rich shade.

J. Crew Factory Wool Dress Coat -- the perfect coat when you need to have a bit of a princess moment -- so very Kate Middleton.

Forever 21 Faux Suede Strappy Sandals -- a bold Miu Miu-inspired chunky sandal. I can imagine these with fun, textured tights in a rainbow of colors.

Modcloth Paris Cafe Cardigan -- I love a cardigan that looks just as good (maybe better) when buttoned as it does when left open. This piece from Modcloth's new in-house line is a little bit sweet, a little bit sexy.

Topshop Leather Duffel Crossbody -- your new everyday bag in a very sophisticated shade.

This rich color looks good on so many different skin tones, so any of these pieces would be great closet workhorses. I really love that coat, so let's take it for a spin...

I'm rarely home for my high school's homecoming weekend, but I might be this year and this is exactly what I'd wear. This coat perfectly ties together a fun sweater and pale, relaxed jeans. The accessories are practical and a nod to my school's colors (blue and gold) -- go Eagles! And this coat brings the perfect amount of fancy for holiday activities later in the year. It compliments, but doesn't compete with, a great party dress.

8. A Great Bag (or Two)

Investing in a good bag each season is an easy way to freshen up your look. It's a smart buy, especially if you're looking to stretch your budget. If you find the right one, your cost per wear will be tiny. Here are some of my favorites right now:

Zara Holdall -- I talked about the qualities of my ideal bag here: (looks like) leather, roomy but not bulky, easy to carry. This is a winner, and I love the deep bottle green color.

Yoins Snakeprint Backpack -- an interesting shape and pattern, but still neutral enough to play nicely with the rest of your look.

Boden Berkeley Zip Bag -- this is one of my favorite bag shapes, and I love the punchy tomato red. 

Old Navy Faux-Leather Bucket Bag -- classic, great looking bag for a teeny price. 

Would it be wrong to buy all of these? I think the Zara bag is my favorite, so let's play with that one:

A perfect bag to take to work, especially on those surprisingly sticky September days. I love this striped shirt dress -- I'd add a couple of bracelets, some not-boring shoes, and not much else. This bag is also perfect for a chilly night out -- people may not see the sleek sweater and pants under your big cocoon coat, but everyone will notice the great bag on your arm.

Fall Wishlist Part III

5. Retro Denim

If there's one trend that seems like a no-brainer, it's the cool, retro 70's vibe that seems to be infusing the racks this season. The disco era gave us plenty of hideous fashion, but if you extract just a few of the best shapes, the right color palette, and the boho spirit of the 70's, you end up with some great pieces that work with a modern closet.

Case in point, a great button front denim skirt -- if you just add one piece to your wardrobe this fall, consider this one. It seems like everyone made a version of it; it's versatile, flattering, fun. It will seem very on-trend right now, but it has a timelessness that means you'll be able to pull it out of your closet for many seasons to come.

Alexa Chung x AG Cool Denim Skirt -- I mean, the name says it all. It's cool. If you're a fan of Alexa Chung's modern manic pixie dream girl vibe, this is the one for you. A little on the long side, but still slim and chic.

A.P.C. Button Front Denim Skirt -- something about the way the buttons extend all the way to the hem makes this seem like the quintessentially French version of this skirt. A perfect little weekend staple.

River Island 70's A-line Button Skirt -- this mini version gives you plenty of room to play with fun tights (and you'll love it all over again once summer rolls around).

ASOS Denim True Midi Skirt with Pockets -- a longer, slinkier version in great pale wash.

I already looked at some options for styling this skirt, but since it's so versatile, let's try a few more...

I miss those New York lazy weekend days when you'd head out for coffee and then maybe do some window shopping, walk through the park, check out the new exhibit at The Met, and find a spot for a long, leisurely dinner. Throw on this skirt with a cute sweater and comfy sandals and you're ready for all of it. With a print blouse, little jacket, and chunky shoes you'll have a perfect work look -- just add tights for those super cold days.

6. Cool Moto

As a Libra, I usually have an aversion to asymmetrical looks. You won't find any handkerchief hems or one shoulder dresses in my closet. But I LOVE a moto style jacket, which usually features uneven draping and a very prominent off-center zipper. Go figure. And apparently everyone loves pretending to be a bit of a biker, because moto jackets are everywhere right now. Here are a few of my favorites:

H&M Biker Jacket -- it is kind of amazing how good faux leathers can be. Totally classic style, teeny price.

H&M Wool Blend Coat -- I just saw this coat in my local store was tempted to snap it up right away. The traditional moto is fitted and hits right at the waist, but this long, oversized version is so cool.

Banana Republic Leather Buckle Moto Jacket -- I was eyeing two different blush leather jackets last year and I totally regret not pulling the trigger. While not a classic fall color, this pale pink color is fun and flattering.

Theory Kinde Leather Sleeve Moto Jacket -- I love the mix of materials and sleek shape.

A great leather jacket goes with everything, you don't really need to style it. But let's do it anyway...

Throw on a leather jacket over your favorite floaty dress and flats to toughen up a sweet look. A cute little date look, no? And I love doing the all black thing sometimes -- skinny jeans, good boots, a few simple accessories. An easy look when you have zero time to think but still want to look chic and pulled together.

Fall Wishlist: Part II

3. Versatile Black & White

No secret, black and white is my favorite color combo and a go-to palette all year long. It's chic, it's flattering, and it goes with everything. I've seen a lot of great graphic black and white pieces this season, so I'm hoping to add one or two to the ever-growing black and white section of my closet.

Anthropologie Ika Split Henley -- a great drape-y tunic that you'll wear every season.

Modcloth By Luck or Design Top -- a perfect work blouse that you could easily pair with jeans or leggings on the weekend.

Modcloth What's Avenue With You? Sweater -- I love the shape this sweet, fitted sweater creates. The stripes are just the right width, and the bow adds personality without being too wacky.

Peter Som Reeve Pullover -- cool and cozy.

For those last lingering days of summer, I'd pair this blouse with a pair of pale blue tweed pants (I bought a very similar pair a few months ago and they are so versatile) for a cool, airy office look. And I'd have some fun with accessories. Pairing black and brown can be tricky, so try using one as an accent -- a stack of wood tone bangles, tortoise flats, and a beige bag are unexpected but interesting.

I don't know why, but I immediately thought this top would be a great option for Thanksgiving dinner -- or maybe a fun Friendsgiving get together. When you add slim (but stretchy) leggings, you have a great outfit with plenty of room for seconds (and thirds). Since you'll be doing plenty of sitting, this is a perfect time to break out your favorite pretty-but-painful shoes. And how amazing is this little belted princess coat? (It's J. Crew -- will be watching for markdowns.)

4. Tailored Blazers

Another year-round favorite, blazers are just made for crisp fall days.

J. Crew Rhodes Blazer -- this is the updated version of the beloved Schoolboy Blazer, and it looks pretty great in photos. A classic you'll wear for years.

J. Crew Metallic Tweed Blazer -- great shape, cool texture, neutral color palette, with a hint of luxe metallic shimmer. Love.

H&M Fitted Blazer -- you don't necessarily need to take out a mortgage to get great looking blazer. I like the color and shape of this one from H&M.

Forever 21 Single Button Knit Blazer -- this soft, relaxed blazer is perfect for throwing over your weekend look when you need an extra layer.

I get jealous anytime I see my favorite bloggers bust out their Schoolboy Blazers, and I'm developing a serious crush on Rhodes. Let's see it in action...

This blazer is the perfect way to make your favorite summer shift office ready. With the right bag, shoes, and jewelry you'll have a really easy work uniform for early fall. I also love the idea of dressing a blazer up a bit. A little sequin tank peeking out underneath is fun and flirty but not over the top. Add skinny jeans and cute shoes and you're ready for dinner, drinks, whatever.

Fall Wishlist Part I

1. A Perfect Trench

A classic trench coat has been on my wish list for some time. It's timeless, versatile, insanely practical. And you really only need one -- choose correctly, and you'll be investing in a piece you'll reach for year after year.

If this is the year you want to add a trench to your closet, there are plenty of good ones to consider:

Modcloth East Coast Tour Coat -- a super sharp, super feminine option. The black piping and ribbon belt help create a really lovely silhouette.

Zara Short Trench Coat -- this is sportier version adds a little drama to your look. It's boxy, so you'll want to try on a few sizes to make sure the fit is sharp and not sloppy.

Mango Flowy Trench -- I like this soft, flowy cut. Also available in charcoal gray if you're not a fan of the traditional beige.

UNIQLO IDLF Trench Coat -- if you're looking for a truly classic trench, I think this is the best (and most affordable) one on the market today. UNIQLO has a great reputation for outerwear, and the influence of French model Ines de la Fressange delivers perfectly chic styling. If you've been considering a Burberry trench, you might want to test drive this one first and see if doesn't save you about $900.

Of course, there are a million ways to wear a trench...

For early fall, I'd throw it on over a t-shirt, skinny crops, and flats with a hint of summer sweetness (tip: on those warm days, leave the coat open and tie the belt in the back to keep things neat). On those truly cold fall days, layer it up: a turtleneck, cozy scarf, warm pants, and chunky boots will keep you warm without being bulky. Don't worry, there's always time for your Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man impression in January.

2. Cozy Knits

I can describe my favorite season in just two words: sweater weather. You know what I'm talking about. Cool, crisp air that makes you want to snuggle into your favorite cozy knit pieces. This is the ideal time to add a few new sweaters into rotation. Here are some of my favorites:

1. Gap Moto Sweater Jacket -- I love the use of a nontraditional waffle knit material in this very classic shape. Perfect for layering, interesting on its own.

2. J. Crew Cambridge Cable Turtleneck -- totally classic style in a bold, bright color. A lot of people look great in red, so a turtleneck like this could be a great pick-me-up piece for gray fall days.

3. UNIQLO Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan -- a good cardigan is a wardrobe staple, and it makes sense to invest in one in a good quality material like cashmere. UNIQLO does affordable cashmere better than almost anyone.

4. Modcloth Corner Coffee Shop Cardigan -- I love the shape of this sweater -- so sharp, and the funnel neck and three-quarter sleeves are feminine and flattering. Think about how much fun you'll have pairing this with fun prints to peek out at the hem.

Sweater weather is the best, and there are so many great styling options...

For early fall, you can pair with a denim mini, tights, and simple chunky boots. This is kind of my ideal "bopping around the neighborhood" outfit, so I'd add my favorite summery shades and a fun tote bag for lugging home library books, farmer's market goodies, a stack of magazines, etc. For later fall months, I'm thinking wide-leg tweed pants, a great watch, cool heels (did you score these Rebecca Minkoff beauties during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale?), and a bucket bag.

*note: I'm leaving prices out of my posts because they'll be over the place this season. Remember, watch for holiday weekend sales, check your email for codes (signing up for a company's email list usually generates an extra, stackable coupon code, so get your burner email addresses ready), comparison shop, and try to avoid paying for shipping.