3 Fall Style Swaps I’m Making This Season
I’ll admit, fall is my favorite fashion season, and it’s usually when I make the most updates to my wardrobe. But for me, an update rarely means a radical overhaul. Sometimes it’s swapping one style for another that feels fresher or more like me, or bringing an old favorite back into rotation. This season, I’m taking a closer look at a few fall staples I’ve relied on in the past, the styles I’m wearing instead, and some old favorites I’m updating with fresh details.
Today I’m joining my blogger friends Cindy Hattersley and Jennifer of A Well Styled Life to share some of our favorite styles. I’ve linked to their posts below.
But first, here’s how I’m updating my wardrobe for fall.
Pausing Chunky Shoes, Wearing Sleeker Styles
I’ve loved my funky, platform-soled shoes for the last few years, but they’re feeling a bit too visually heavy now. Here are some of the sleeker styles I’m loving this season.
Love these loafers! They have a nicely padded insole and the leather is soft. But they’re sturdy enough for extended walking. They run true-to-size. (True, they’re not inexpensive, but my “old school” cobbler who added a rubber half sole was very impressed with them and guessed their price at almost double what they cost.)
These flats are SO comfortable: soft upper plus a very cushioned insole. They’re available in several colors and finishes, but the leopard print is calling my name…
Veronica Beard | Natalia Sneakers
These sneakers hit my trifecta: low profile, a nicely cushioned and supportive insole, and the ease of a slip-on! I have them in the tan calf hair, but this silver pair is a great choice for those with cool palettes.
Pausing Lady Jackets, Wearing Swing Jackets
I’ve been drawn to more relaxed styles lately, and that includes jackets.
I picked up this Sézane “Bobby” jacket last spring in Paris, and it’s a great trench alternative. It’s cotton, so I’ll be able to wear it most of the year here. I love that check lining which adds a fun detail when the sleeves are cuffed. I believe this is the Camel color, and it does run large.
I just received this fab denim swing jacket. If you’re looking for a more stylish alternative to a trucker jacket, this is definitely one to try. It runs large; I took the XS which is plenty roomy enough to throw on over a sweater. 👉 Save $55 off your order with code FW26!
I’ve been on the hunt for a leather jacket in a lighter color, and this might be the one I go for. It’s a similar cut to the cotton one above, so I know it will work for me. It’s also available in a few suede options, as well as one in cotton.
Keeping Classic Cardigans, Adding Special Details
Cardigans are a versatile option for everyday and travel. A tie-neck detail takes this pretty cardigan up a notch.
J’adore this Sézane cardigan, which is 100% merino wool. I think you could easily dress this up with a pair of velvet or satin pants or skirt. You can also wear open over a tank or top and leave the ties undone.
For those who prefer non-wool options, here’s a pretty one in 100% cotton from Madewell (and currently 25% off for Insiders!). I haven’t tried this on but reviews say it runs small, so I’d suggest sizing up.
Alex Mill | Cotton Cashmere Cardigan
I purchased this cardigan earlier this year in a butter yellow, and love how you can change up the neckline just by buttoning or unbuttoning. It runs a little large; I take XS, and it’s mid-hip length on me. It’s available in over a dozen color options (solids and stripes).
None of these changes is a dramatic departure from my usual style. They’re simply small shifts in silhouette and detail that make my fall wardrobe feel fresher and more current. And that’s often all an update needs to be. Which styles are you keeping in rotation this fall, and are there any you’re ready to swap out?
Now, let’s go see what Cindy and Jennifer have put together for us!
Cindy Hattersley Design | A Well Styled Life
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I have the Margaux leopard print in the ballet flat and agree that they are so comfortable. The print is a great one, goes with everything and I seem to reach for them all the time. And I love all sweaters! How many is too many?
Thank you for sharing the sleeker loafer, my chunky ones were beginning to feel a bit much by the end of last winter. I love the swing jacket on you! I’m a similar bust size and struggle when wearing things that fall away from my body too much. I tend to look bigger than I am just because of my bust(5’3″-130lbs). You always look so trim, even though you’ve shared that you are larger up top, also. What am I missing? I will be 60 next year and am working on being as healthy as possible, but I want to look great in my clothes and explore different styles as well!
Both your jacket and your caediganby Sézane are fabulous. Really good for a petite.
Greetje
PS I am a fall woman too. September is the month of overdraft, every year. Sigh.
I’m seeing lots of swing jackets too and love the fresh feel of the shape. I have the Margaux in black and agree they’re very comfy. Great post Susan
I love the loafers and the Sezane sweater. I’ve been eyeing the loafers and may go ahead and order. On the expensive side, but I am very easy on my things so I should be able to wear them for a few years. I like that they are more refined and not chunky. The tie on the sweater makes it “not just another” cardigan. Would be a great addition. Thanks Susan
Susan I love your pics! I don’t usually wear button up cardigans but the one with the scarf detail is so fabulous! Thanks for joining us! Always love your expertise and insight on collaborative posts!!
P.S I am not sad that the clunky loafer is going away either…
Many of the swing jackets are really cute, although as a petite like you, I need to be aware of the amount of material so as not be overwhelmed. So funny that these jackets are a throwback to the 1950s — my mom had an orange Donegal tweed jacket with matching hat and bag that was lovely. The attached (bow) ties are retro as well. I do wonder, though, whether (male) designers are trying to push us back into ‘feminine’ style. The attached bows/scarves (at least the longer ones) are impractical IRL, even eating lunch out. They also seem fussy when viewed from the side
all these short jackets are ok but I like my buns covered when it’s wet and cold. I think your style is great but expensive.
Can anyone recommend a swing jacket that doesn’t run large?
I know I’ve said this before, but stiff chunky soles are the salvation of those of us with certain foot problems. I couldn’t walk a step in thin-soled flats without severe pain. So, when you see us in our well-worn lugs after they’re outdated, please remember that we all don’t have a choice. Similarly, I’ll be holding on to my high-waisted pants long after no one’s selling them anymore. They’re the only pants style that doesn’t slip down on me! Anyone else have certain styles and cuts they cling to for very practical purposes?
I’m with you. I cling to certain styles for practical purposes, especially when it comes to shoes. I need lots of support. I can’t wear fashion sneakers or the cute stylish Mary Janes that are so popular now. I can walk forever in the right shoes, but the wrong shoes can quickly ruin an outing.
Tracy – I need to wear practical-for-me shoes too (wide feet + bunion.) A couple of months ago I took the plunge and purchased a pair of “foot shaped” Altra trainers to replace my more pointy toed sneakers. Fortunately the style is becoming more popular, so just seeing them more often is getting my eyes used to the unusual shape; it’s a little like growing to appreciate barrel shaped trousers or any other style that at first may seem off putting. Fascinating the way our tastes change as our fashion environments change!
Yep. No “relaxed” fits for me. I look much like a clown unless pants are fitted through the hips and thighs. I LOVE slim fit bootcut jeans!
I am right there with you! I like a clean fitting hip and thigh pant….the full legged pants with pleats, etc. look sloppy on me.
Hello Susan
I totally love your style choices and you always look great. I have a lovely soft navy swing jacket very similar to the one you are wearing but in softer fabric – what style of jeans/ pants works best with this ? And should the under layer be shorter rather than longer? I have the same problem as Jill has mentioned with clothes falling away from my body but maybe it’s just a different look that I need to embrace.
Thankyou for all the amazing advice that has made a big difference to my life in NZ
Helen
Dear Susan,
I hope you are having a great time with all your travels and it looks like life is treating you well! I read your mail regularly but haven’t commented in a while. I’ve been following you since the beginning of your blog and it has been (and will always be) so instructive and helpful and a port in the storm during covid too not to mention helpful when packing!
I wanted you to know that in the last half of 2025 I lost 50 pounds and now, at age 77, I am “lean and mean” and having such fun with clothes; SO…I have chosen to return to clothes of the 70s, 80s and 90s that I loved so much then and now. Bomber jackets, sequins, jumpsuits, and shirts with fabulous prints among others. I appreciate the quality and uniqueness. I’m having fun mixing the old and the new! Your blog gave me the “permission” to have fun with clothes!!!! Thank you…..
Susan, Can you please comment on the fit of the Suzanne Amelie cardigan with tie neck, as compared to the Betty? I purchased the Betty two years ago, and the Medium is roomy on me, but with 34C bust, I’m not sure whether to go with the Small or M for the tie neck Amelie sweater you are wearing above. Thanks!!
Hi Joan, the Amelie is more fitted and less boxy than the Betty.
Thank you, Susan!