The weather may still be on the warmer side and it might still technically be summer, but nothing can stop us from feeling the fall vibes in the air. And, nothing is stopping you from unpacking your spooky season decor and sipping pumpkin spice lattes either; in fact, we encourage it — and even have a few items in mind to bring that autumnal ambiance to the next level.
For the latest installment of Shop TODAY’s Hot List, we tapped Shop TODAY contributor Makho Ndlovu to give us the scoop on what you need to update your wardrobe, home and beauty routine before the arrival of a new season. And if our trend radar is telling us anything, it's saying mid-rise denim, utility jackets and warm, cozy scents are absolutely in.
Saying goodbye to summer is hard, but with our favorite fall-forward items below, you can bet it won't be missed too much.
Fall essentials seen on The 3rd hour of TODAY
It’s never too late to level up your fitness routine, and this unexpected tool may be the key to hitting your goal. You’ve likely seen people wearing these weighted vests around, whether at the gym, while taking walks or even running errands — it’s because they offer a ton of benefits. According to Makho, experts says this fitness-fashion hybrid tool can improve core strength, increase calorie burn and build up total body strength. “I love this one, says Ndlovu, adding, “I wear it during workouts and even while cleaning around the house. It’s an easy way to amp up any activity!” She is also a big fan of how surprisingly comfortable it is, as well as functional, considering the detachable pocket it comes with.
Nothing creates maximum fall ambiance quite like a scented candle — but not just any candle. A Yankee Candle can work magic on a space, ensuring it smells warm and inviting. But this collection of fragrances is offered with one goal: to jumpstart those cozy fall vibes. Seriously, all of these scents are giving “fall in a jar.” From pumpkin spice and sugared cinnamon apple to crisp forest air and mountain lounge, these are great to light when you need to wind down after a long day. We also scored an exclusive code (TODAY) that you can use to get 50% off full-price large candles and free shipping on orders over $50 through September 24.
Old Navy
Take the end of summer as your sign to update your closet in preparation of the cooler weather — and we can’t think of starting anywhere else than Old Navy’s denim selection. The brand’s jeans are a Shop TODAY team favorite, and right now, we have a TODAY-exclusive discount code for 50% off one pair of jeans when you use the code TODAY at checkout (for today only!)
We suggest this mid-rise pair for anyone who prefers a more relaxed fit and long silhouette. Ndlovu is a big fan, raving that "they look amazing with heels or easy slip-ons." That's because they feature a "puddled" hem with an intentionally oversized fit that is both on-trend and rather comfortable.
If you need more stretch, Ndlovu says this style has just the right amount. It also features a slim, skinny-straight hybrid pant leg and a high-waisted fit with a "broken-in" feel, per the brand. It comes in a ton of washes that will go with all your favorite fall sweaters and, if you grab a pair now, you can score 50% off.
"Personally, I'm a big fan of the extra high-waist fit — it really cinches in the waist for that super flattering shape," says Ndlovu. With a pant silhouette like this, we can't say we disagree. The streamlined pant leg adds length and the fit will give you a snatched look not many denim styles can accomplish. If we can offer an suggestion: consider the pair with studded accents at the side. They offer a level of chicness that is normally seen on $100+ pants, not ones for less than $25.
If you're venturing to try something new, the barrel-leg pant recently started trending, and Old Navy has a pair that offers an easy way to to give the style shot. "That curved silhouette works on so many body types — super flattering and a little unexpected," says Ndlovu. They come in a variety of washes, including ones with a mix of two shades, and feature a cropped length that ends at the ankle.
Of course, we didn't forget about the guys! Get him in on this denim action with these bestsellers. Designed with built-in flexibility and stretch, Ndlovu says they're comfortable to wear all day and take you from day to night. She seems to favor the dark wash, saying the deep color "makes them super versatile and easy to pair with pretty much any top. Complete with zip pockets and wrinkle-resistant fabric, these are clearly a no-brainer.
Matches are so out. If you’re over the finger burns or forgetting to buy more matchbooks, this Shop TODAY bestselling electric lighter will save the day. Its size and safety features make it great for bringing anywhere, like barbecues, campgrounds and more. But we’d rather keep it right next to our Yankee Candle Ciderhouse jar for when it needs a light. It’s rechargeable and doesn’t require any kind of lighter fluid.
We thought the green utility jacket had peaked in the 2010s, but it's about to have a new moment this season. This 2025 version not only does the olive color scream fall, but its high collar and cinched waist also oozes style and warmth. We see it pairing nicely with the aforementioned jeans and a lightweight sweater, but Ndlovu swears the fitted style will pair just as nicely with a dress or even sweats.
If you want to grab him a trucker jacket to match, there's no way he'll turn this Levi's style away. "It's worth the splurge," says Ndlovu. "Feel the sturdy fabric and classic design; this jacket is made to be your go-to for years to come. According to customers, the jacket may run big (but who doesn't love an oversized fit), and it comes with a ton of pockets to easily access your essentials.
More fall essentials to shop
The air is about to get a little chillier and a lot more dry, but this PDRN cream can ensure your skin keeps its hydration. Thanks to a formula packed with peptides and collagen, it can keep you complexion feeling plump, looking smooth and maintaining a youthful glow. “I love how dewy my skin looks after I apply this,” says Shop TODAY editor and producer Julie Ricevuto. “I use it as my final skin care step and my glow lasts all day long.”
Make sure you have all the cooking tools you need while making your favorite comfort meals this season. This spatula set can help you flip, lift, scrape and spread — without risk of scratching your best cookware.
When stepping outside starts to feel a little cooler, you'll be happy you have this utility jacket to turn to. It's available in a ton of colors and can even offer a custom fit, thanks to a drawstring added to the waist.
We’re making thinning hair a thing of the past, starting with this leave-in scalp serum. According to the brand, it delivers hair-loving nutrients, promotes denser strands and can boost overall hair health. Plus, it’s designed to dry quickly and never leave uncomfortable residue behind.
Biodance is expanding its line of viral hydrogel masks with these peptide serums. They're made to boost collagen levels, while also plumping the skin and creating a smooth base for makeup.
Sweater weather has arrived, and we found your new go-to pullover to add to your lineup. This soft knot offers an oversized fit and is said to feel super "snuggly." Right now, you can grab one for nearly 50% off.
For anyone looking to match their eye makeup to the fall tones seen on their outfits, this palette is made for you. The carefully curated shades feature a mix of neutral and jewel tones that come in metallic and less bold finishes.
When it comes to fall, Thanksgiving comes to mind, with "food" following directly after. You'll want this insulated serving dish on hand during the holiday season, as it can keep food hot or cold for hours, and even comes with an inner pan that can be removed and cooked in.
Live out your dreams of a movie night outside (or literally anywhere) with this portable projector. With Bluetooth connectivity and multi-device connection, you can link up to your favorite streamers to play the movies and shows you've been dying to watch.
Featuring Rothy’s new and “revolutionary” ReVelvet material, these clogs are the shoes you’ll want to slip into every day this fall. They also include a contoured footbed for what the brand describes as “dream-like comfort,” arch support and durable outsoles for wearing outside. Plus, they’re even machine washable!
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 Makho Ndlovu.
- Makho Ndlovu is a Shop TODAY contributor and on-air expert.
How do you add Shop TODAY as a Preferred Source on Google?
Google’s new Preferred Sources feature allows users to manually select their favorite publishers and news outlets for a more customizable experience tailored directly to the reader. Once you’ve opted to receive our content, you’ll begin seeing more of our recent and trending articles displayed within your Top Stories news feed.
The easiest way to add us as a preferred source is to click here and type in “TODAY.com.” Once the box is checked and you’ve refreshed the page, Shop TODAY content will start appearing in your feed.
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.
