If I asked you to make a list of the top 5 essential pieces in your wardrobe for Fall, I bet it would look something like this:

• Boots

• Jackets

• Lightweight Layers

• Sweaters

• Jeans

Fall is a favorite season for a reason. It gives us a break from the sweltering heat and lets us bundle up in cozy layers. I love Fall because it is still warm enough to wear some of your Spring or Summer pieces, but with cute lightweight layers. And I LOVE jackets!

The list of must have pieces for Fall fashion may look the same year to year, but the trends change. I want to challenge you to update your look with new colors, cuts, and styles that will get you excited about getting out of bed and into your clothes even on the rainiest of days.

Boots

Lets start at the bottom, shall we? I think everyone I know has a pair of basic black rain boots. Yours are probably knee high, maybe they are Hunter, and you probably throw them on over skinny jeans or leggings on especially drizzly days. I have 2 pairs. But the thing is, they are clunky, not especially good looking, and if you are like me (short with big calves) not super comfy either.

This season, there are a ton of shorter, waterproof, booties that are a great alternative. They pair better with different cuts of pants, can be worn all day without compromising on style or comfort, and still keep your feet dry! Look for a Chelsea style boot or something with a good block heel.

Lucky Brand Bebhina Waterproof Western Bootie

Blondo Izzy Waterproof Bootie

The asymmetrical shoe trend has been popular for while now, but what I like about these is that they are waterproof and don't leave an open gap on your foot!

Lucky Brand Basel Rain Boot

Light Layers

Having light weight layers is essential to fall fashion. The weather is in transition and your layers will help you look put together and keep you from overheating or being too cold. Look for soft comfy fabrics that breathe well and can withstand a few sprinkles. I love the sweater coats and long light weight trenches that are in the stores right now.

Felicity Wool Sweater Coat

Madewell Texture & Thread Quilted Wrap Jacket

Leith Soft Trench

Jackets

Jackets in the Fall should stay light weight but still weather appropriate. I like cropped styles in colors like rust, cognac, and sage. A leather (or leather alternative) jacket will serve you throughout many seasons and there are a lot of options in the stores this season. For an outer coat, look for one that will stand out on its own but isn't quite as heavy as your winter coat so it layers well.

Rails Collins Utility Jacket

Maison Jules Jacket

J.Crew Boiled Wool Coat

*If you like the look of the faux fur or 'teddy bear' coats that are trendy in the Fall, but aren't ready to commit to that much of a statement, try a fabric like boiled wool. This J.Crew coat comes in the classic camel color as well as a beautiful lilac.

Sweaters

The major changes in sweaters this season has been in the sleeves. We are seeing a lot of bell sleeves, puff shoulders, and balloon sleeves. We are also seeing a lot of mock necks which we LOVE! They are sophisticated, modern, and chic.

Valerie Eyelash Sweater

LOFT Plaid Mock Neck Tunic

Gap Mockneck Button Shoulder Pullover Sweater

Pants

Denim is our easy go to for Fall, but there are so many great trouser options that can really bring a new look to your wardrobe. Even jeans have gone through a refresh and we are seeing more straight legs and high waists (perfect for those shorter jackets). Cropped lengths are being seen across the board and are a great fit for the loafers and booties that are popular this season.

LOFT Checked Cropped Wide Leg Pants

Ann Taylor Belted Pant[

LOFT High Rise Staight Leg Jean

To shop these looks and see my picks for Fall Dresses and Skirts, shop the Fall Essentials Catalog