What I’m Buying and Not Buying This Fall
I donated six bags of clothes yesterday, which will certainly make you question your buying strategy.
I suspect many of us reach a point where we look at everything we own and wonder how it all got there. Between the things I buy and the clothes brands send me, I’ve ended up with a lot of clothes, but not necessarily a wardrobe that pleases me.
I still love sophisticated, elegant clothes, neutrals, and fairly minimal dressing, but lately I’ve wanted my clothes to feel more expressive and more individual. I’ve spent years making buying decisions based on whether something is classic, neutral, and goes with everything, and I think I’ve backed myself into a bit of a corner. Maybe turning 70 has something to do with it, but I feel less inclined to follow all my old formulas simply because they’ve always worked.
So I’m looking at my wardrobe with a more critical eye this fall. I want to curate what I already own and be much pickier about what I add next.
Today I’m joining my stylish blogging pals Cindy and Susan to talk about what each of us is buying and not buying for fall. We have very different styles, which is what makes these posts so interesting.
What I’m Buying This Fall
Things That Ring More Than One Bell
Being a good color for me and looking perfectly nice isn’t enough anymore. I want pieces that interest me for more than one reason.
I’m also questioning how much “flattering” should factor into every decision. We can become so focused on wearing the most flattering color, shape, or proportion that we edit some of the creativity out of getting dressed.
I’ve gotten into the habit of buying things I can link for you because I know it’s frustrating when I wear something you like and can only find something similar. Somewhere along the way, that started influencing what I bought for myself.
This fall, I want to buy things because they interest me, whether or not they check all the usual boxes.
More Texture
I’m looking for more texture because it brings interest and dimension to an outfit. I tend to buy clothes with very little texture, and I realize I miss it.
I love chunky knits, nubby fabrics, quilting, suede, and anything with a surface you can actually see. Texture gives a simple outfit something to look at without adding more color or pattern. Some of it may overwhelm me, but I’m willing to risk it.
Some Pattern
I’ve worn my patterned Johnny Was jacket quite a bit this summer and really enjoyed the slightly artisanal feel of the print, so I want to experiment with more pattern this fall.
I’ve always been drawn to minimalism, and I still love looking at it on other people. I’m just not sure I love wearing it as much as I used to. All of a sudden, it doesn’t seem to express as much as I want my clothes to express, and a little pattern feels like one way to change that.
You’re probably not going to catch me in a floral because I really dislike them on me, and buying another stripe isn’t exactly branching out. I don’t know what I’m looking for yet. I want to see what catches my eye.
More Unique Earrings
Most of my jewelry is extremely classic, which has always made sense to me because it goes with everything. But I’m starting to think “goes with everything” may not be what I’m looking for anymore.
I’d like to find earrings with some individuality and real presence. Something a little longer than I normally wear, perhaps with some movement, and definitely not another stud or hoop. I’m drawn to something more artistic, maybe an unusual shape or material, that can stand on its own without a necklace.
I don’t know exactly what they’ll look like yet, and I don’t want to decide in advance. I want to find something that makes me stop and look twice.
Comfortable Booties That Still Have Style
I’ve talked plenty about how important comfortable shoes have become for me, but this fall I need to rethink some of my boots. I don’t have time to deal with surgery on my big toe right now, so I’m managing it with inserts and orthotics.
That means some of the boots I’ve loved, especially those with a bit of a heel, probably aren’t going to work for me anymore. I need something flat, with enough room that it doesn’t put pressure on that big toe joint, and preferably enough space for an insert or orthotic. Finding all of that in a bootie I actually want to wear may take some hunting.
Dark-Wash Straight-Leg Jeans
It’s hard to believe I could possibly need another pair of jeans because I own so many, although I did just donate quite a few that were duplicates. What I don’t own is a dark-wash straight-leg pair. Most of mine are medium or pale washes, and some have distressing, so I’m looking for a clean, dark wash with no distressing at all.
I want them straight but not narrow, and I want them to skim my legs rather than cling to them like Saran Wrap. An ankle length will work with virtually every shoe I own, from sneakers and loafers to the flat booties I’m now hunting for. Dark-wash jeans are also having a moment this fall, but in this case they fill a real hole in my wardrobe.
What I’m Not Buying This Fall
More Versions of What I Already Own
I know what I like, which makes it very easy to buy it again. But I don’t need three beige cashmere sweaters, and in fact, I don’t need another crewneck cashmere sweater at all. I just edited quite a few of them out of my wardrobe.
I suspect many of us do this. Once we know something works, buying another version feels like a safe choice. But I do laundry frequently, so I don’t need backups of everything I love. I’ve got the classics covered.
Less Traditional Styling
I’m craving less structure and a little less of the traditional, classic look I’ve worn for years. I’m certainly not giving it up. I just have plenty of it.
I’d like to experiment with more fluid shapes, especially pants with some movement, softer knit tops, and pieces that don’t feel quite so tailored or buttoned-up. I’m not looking for anything bohemian or overly romantic, just a little less rigid than some of the clothes I’ve gravitated toward in the past.
This fall, I’m more interested in pieces that take my wardrobe in a slightly different direction.
Now let’s hop over and see what Cindy from Cindy Hattersley Design and Susan from Une Femme X Susan Blakey are buying, and not buying, this fall.
What are you being more selective about this fall? Is there anything you’ve decided you have enough of, or something you’d like to bring more of into your wardrobe?
Is there a link to the teal vest and turtleneck? Thanks!
No sorry. They’re from Loft several years ago.
Booties- Taos and Miz Mooz are saving my feet post ankle fracture. Got both at Nordstrom.
I have Taos sandals I love so I’ll check out their booties. Thanks
My husband recently complimented my dinner attire. The end comment “you usually wear baggy clothes” got me reevaluating my huge wardrobe and what Id been wearing this summer – lots of linen, dresses, big shirts, pull on pants…he is correct! I went for comfort, and while cute items, not flattering at all! At 67 I still have a decent figure, certainly won’t wear tight, inappropriate clothes, but need to balance the outfits. I too donated several bags of clothing, some with tags. Being much more intentional what I purchase! I too probably have 5 brown cashmere cardi’s! Ha!
Doesn’t it feel great to edit out what’s not working??
You and I have a similar sensibility in how we are changing our approach. I used to be much more tailored and minimalist, though I’ve always had a splash more solid color blocking than just neutrals. I like your idea of more movement and texture, but as a petite (and shrinking!) I’m still mindful of proportion and not letting fabric overwhelm.
I certainly understand your willingness to change what you are wearing. I tend to buy certain styles of tops and then wonder why they all look alike! I do branch out a bit with embroidered items. I have added 4 Johnny Was embroidered dresses to my wardrobe this summer. I shy away from fitted dresses because my body shape does not look good in them. In fact, before this summer, I had not worn a dress since around 2005! Now I have discovered how lightweight linen dresses are so cool and comfortable to wear in hot Florida weather! Who Knew! lol. I think your basic wardrobe you have been wearing for years will suit you fine if you add that one more stylish top or jacket. I love you wearing that stylish vest you wore above for example. Just lovely! I will be watching to see what you choose!
Thanks, Linda! I love that outfit too.
I got this the other day and read all three of the posts…so some of us got it and some didn’t?
That is very weird! So many did not. Thanks for letting me know
Jennifer, I love your style, and look forward to reading your great tips. However, the Frank and Eileen sweatpants, although very cool, threw me for a loop. $278 for sweatpants, stylish as they may be. Oi! Even those of us who can easily afford them, should we?
I understand, they certainly are pricey. Whether to buy anything is such a personal choice.
The struggle is real, Jennifer. As a woman who has worked a year to lose 50+ pounds, I am restocking my closet with new things that are timeless yet let my personality shine through. I love your vest, it looks AMAZING on you! I always appreciate your styling ideas.
Congratulations Janette!! That’s wonderful
Having just cleared out my part of the closet as well as my husband’s (I doubt he will notice!) I am determined to wear more skirts this year. We live in a senior living community and every woman seems to just wear pants with an untucked “flowy” shirt. I want to get back to wearing the clothes that make me feel good — skirts, nice slacks and sweaters —jeans once in awhile. I also plan on wearing more color!
HA! My husband never notices when I help clean out his closet too. He keeps everything
Love the vest! Love the hat! Love the first picture! You look great in all of them! I do so appreciate your posts.
I’ve been on another “get rid of the dead weight” closet edit. A 25-30 piece basic colors collection/capsule plus an additional 20 pieces of dress-up, suits, and seasonal. I LOVE this closet. It’s interesting, that at 80 I’m doing the opposite of you! (Is it decade b’days?) I’m happiest in what Pinterest calls “Quiet Luxury.” I only need a few artsy, edgy items to give me all the variety I will realistically wear.
I don’t have much on my shopping list right now. (If I ever find a non-iron shirt in ecru/ivory/cream, I’m buying a dozen!) A perfect, silkish bandana, 35″. A puffer vest in cream or champagne. That’s about it.
LOL, I think the decade birthdays are the best!
I love your message today, and I am in the same boat. At 4’11”, most of my purchase decisions are based on fit, so I’ve ended up without a cohesive wardrobe except for a lot of basics. Time to add a bit of spice.
Love your decision. Let it go!
You look great in all your photos, and you’ve given me, per usual, thank you, food for thought about my wardrobe. My wardrobe challenge is different from yours because I live in the high desert of SW Utah, and the lifestyle here is casual and outdoor-comfort-oriented. No need to look stylish, but that doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy looking put together and nice. I ordered a pair of the dark-wash jeans you recommended from J.Crew Factory. Our coloring is similar, but I’ve never liked how I look in light-wash jeans. I like to wear chinos in different shades and pair them with lightweight cashmere tops. I have a few of those from Quince, and I would ordinarily feel like they’re too thin, but they wear well in the desert climate in colder weather. My style-up changes will be to accessories like scarves and longer pendants.
Accessories are a great way to switch things up.
Timely post. I’m evaluating my summer clothes as I put some away in clear garment bags (thanks for that link) and others away to donate or consign in the spring. Last spring I did the backward hangar thing and it was easy to see the surprisingly few items that were never worn. My “need” list for fall is small and I will be picky. I just purchased a gorgeous artist made jacket over-dyed kanta cloth with wonderful texture. I’ve found the best places to buy unique clothing items and especially jewelry are galleries and good art fairs. As an artist I like to support other artists and most of the pieces I’ve purchased are unique and, to me, timeless. I look forward to your explorations.
Your jacket sounds amazing! I like to buy from artists too.
Hi Jennifer, I saw the other day that Susan did a post about this in conjunction with you and Cindy and realised I hadn’t received your post in my inbox – so I went looking for it and read it! I’m sure lots of other people did the same!
Thanks for checking!
Well, I just bought a pair of dark jeans , Bella stretch straight leg relaxed jeans. I hope they fit. I’ve never bought jeans from Quince before and the price was $50. So thanks to you I’m trying them.
Yay, let us know how the are
I LOVE that vest! Is it a one of a kind piece?
It is one of a kind, but she makes many, and you can find some here.
I haven’t received any of your posts this week.
I really look forward to them.
Ann
I only had two, but I am having email issues.
You look fabulous in that vest and hat! The dangling earrings in silver take the outfit to another level. More of that!
I agree, more of that!
Jennifer, I feel your pain regarding that missing boutique dress. Several weeks ago I began to change out my footwear for the coming fall season and nearly flipped out when I couldn’t locate a favorite pair of loafers I’d purchased last year. I’m not sure what made me finally think to go through all my luggage – bags, cases, backpacks, etc., but wonder of wonders that’s where I finally found the shoes. Hubby had decided to be helpful and help me “unpack” after one of our last trips by storing the luggage for me and lo and behold I found several pairs of my shoes hidden away. Hoping for a magical reappearance of that favorite dress for you!
How helpful of him 🥰 I’ve got my fingers crossed that I find it.
One new thing I’ve seen a lot of this fall is pants that hit at the waist and then have flow, maybe a crepe-type fabric. If one can find a good fit, these are very flattering. Don’t know what brands are out there that make these. I don’t think most of us look good in the barrel jeans or wide leg jeans made in stiff fabric.
I’m 5’9″ and wear Levi’s 724 jeans which hit at the waist, come in normal and tall lengths, and come in straight and flared. They have lots of different washes.
I love the look of those flowing pants. I have a pair I snagged on the Eileen Fisher sale rack last year and love them.
I have everything I need right now – am in a decluttering phase… well, trying, ha, but I do like texture and just purchased a nubby (in a good way) sweater. Years ago you told us texture near the face makes skin look smoother. I took that nugget of wisdom to heart and often think of you when getting dressed!
I love wearing texture on top for that reason too. I’m on a bit of a decluttering jag lately. It feels so good.
I agree with everything you said, and especially love the last pic of you in the vest, jeans, boots and hat! Very attractive.
Thank Sylvia.
Hello Jenifer,
The photo of you (wearing a hat) in this post is particularly stunning! Thank you for sharing your knowledge, thoughts, and ideas! I am a “forever” reader !
You’re so kind. Thanks for being here.
Thank you…these shared posts with your colleagues are such fun and I gain much insight into the upcoming fashion season. Your embroidered long vest is gorgeous!
As an FYI, I did not receive your post in my email yesterday and linked to it through Cindy’s post/email. I searched junk and trash email also. I did receive your Monday post.
LOL, thanks for letting me know…I forgot to send it out by email.
Jennifer, I applaud you for trying a different look. We all are probably guilty of buying the same types of clothing. I too am attempting to expand my wardrobe through buying a few interesting and different things. Good luck and have fun!
I’m pretty happy with my wardrobe, but I’m craving some artisan type pieces. I found an awesome tooled leather bag. I’m stalking some vintage sweaters-Pendleton, Lauren southwestern and LLB nordic. I’m close to ordering this sweater from The Met: https://store.metmuseum.org/peeters-bouquet-of-flowers-womens-lambswool-sweater-gardenwomenssweater.
Shopping the second hand sites.
Second hand sites can be real treasure troves. That Met sweater is pretty amazing.
Oh! That sweater! If I could wear wool, I would have fallen out of my chair clicking Buy. It is amazing.
This post was so timely! I’ve been cleaning, culling, etc. for weeks, going slowly and really thinking about what I like, how I feel in it, what I want to change and how. You captured my thoughts exactly and I think I’ll look at this process with new eyes and ideas. Thanks, Jennifer.
Btw…I know I’m on your mailing list but I didn’t get this post in my email today?!
Oh no! I forgot to email it!! Sorry about that.
Jennifer I agree!! We need more fun clothes that make us feel good! I love a great statement piece when everything else is quiet! What we don’t need is more stuff..couldn’t agree more!
I have had a terrible time finding boots and booties that don’t hurt due to my bunion. I decided to try Vivaia brand. I bought the square toe ankle boot style Marsa. They look good and feel very comfortable. I haven’t tried them with an orthotic but believe there would be room. I believe I will find myself wearing them quite a lot in the upcoming fall and winter seasons.
I love the picture of you in the hat and blue embroidered vest! It has a very Dianne Keaton vibe.
I’ll check them out.. I’ve seen them around a lot!
Seconding Vivaia comfort. Truly wear-every-day comfortable.
This post didn’t appear in my inbox today for some reason. Come to think of it, I’ve been missing your post most days. I accessed it by way of Susan Blakey’s blog.
Sorry, I just figured out that I forgot to send it
Jennifer,
The last picture of you in the post in the vest and grey fedora…so cool 😎 and unique !
That’s an ensemble that definitely deserves a second look. LOVE IT
Thanks, Nancy. I love it too.
Great post! Thank you.
Glad you liked it!
The vest, the hat, the earrings…the entire outfit looks great on you!!!
I love that outfit and still have all the pieces. I need to wear it more often, although the boots will have to wait until after my foot surgery.
I like the patterned vests and jackets and am drawn to them. However, my lovely, stylish mother always said “wear it once and people will compliment, wear it twice and they will remember you wore it before”. She was a classic, neutral dresser who had an eye for fashion and a tight rein on her purse. She always bought quality that endured for more than a few seasons. I still hear her when I see these lovely sweaters and jackets! I also feel the need to “step out of my box”!!
Your mother was right but I’ve learned that being an outfit repeater is a sign the outfit was great. I don’t mind if people have seen it before anymore. If I love it, that’s enough.
I’m really liking these expressive pieces on you, Jennifer. That long vest is FAB!
Thanks Susan. I love them too!
I love all of your ideas. I think you always look fabulous !
I’m looking for softer dressing, maybe even soft waist jeans and pants. I haven’t found any that look like something I would wear. If you run across anything like that I can’t be the only one looking for them.
If you mean pull-on, there are lots of great options these days.
Probably not buying much this season. However, I would like to shop the store you donated 6 bags to!!
Unfortunately, I’ve put on enough pounds over the past year to require going up a size or two. This means that I’m facing the classic struggle of needing new clothes that I hope I won’t have to wear for too long. On a happier note, while I traditionally love a classic style, the new zebra accessories seem really fun!
They do to me too. Buy a few flexible pieces that make you feel good now. If and when the weight comes off you’ll happily replace them.
Thanks for this thoughtful post. On my “to buy” list:
1. Redesign services from my favorite, very talented local jeweler. I recently took some cherished it seldom worn pieces from my inventory in, including the earrings I wore on my wedding day. She did a marvelous job reimagining them for my life now.
2. Jackets and vests. Living in the Midwest, my clothes are covered anytime outside.
That’s a great way to describe it. Redesigned for your life now! Love it.