For us, fall is the season that makes getting dressed feel exciting again. There’s something about cozy layers, fresh denim and that first sip of a spiced latte that sets the tone for chillier months ahead. Melissa Garcia agrees — and to meet the moment, the Shop TODAY lifestyle and fashion contributor returned to Studio 1A to share her must-have style picks for the season.
To start, Garcia is sticking to one of her year-round staples: the classic button-down. This shirt features a crinkle texture that subtly disguises fabric wrinkles — perfect for women on the go. (It’s also made in Garcia’s preferred oversized fit, which adds an effortlessly cool feel to the timeless style.) As for denim, Garcia is loving the return of palazzo pants, and she found a denim pair that are on-trend and super flattering. To top it all off, her sights are set on a faux suede trench coat that you can wear open as an easy layer, or buttoned up on brisk days. It instantly elevates any outfit — you'd never know it's just $50.
A wife and mom of two boys, Garcia always has an eye out for stylish menswear and this season, a men's waffle knit button-down from Land’s End checks all of the usual boxes: comfy, versatile and great for layering. No fall outfit is complete without a few accessories, and Garcia found a "look for less" shoulder bag that we can't believe is just $35. Plus, she suggests a satin scarf that can be tied around the handle. To finish the look, she recommends a pair of brown flats that are just as easy to style as your go-to black pair, but will lend a rich chocolate hue and subtle texture to your outfit.
Ready to give your fall wardrobe an upgrade? Scroll down to shop Garcia’s top picks — and add them all to your cart ASAP with one click.
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A New Day Faux Suede Trench
$55.00
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A New Day Oversized Long Sleeve Crinkle Button-Down Shirt
$25.00
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Universal Thread Highest-Rise Palazzo Wide Leg Jeans
$40.00
4 of 19
A New Day Women’s Sammie Ballet Flats with Memory Foam Insole
$35.00
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Universal Thread Oversized Slouchy Shoulder Bag
$35.00
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Lands' End Men's Lined Waffle Shirt Jacket
$53.97
$89.95
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Wrapables Floral Satin Neckerchief Scarf
$13.99
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A New Day Duster Cardigan
$18.00
$30.00
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Universal Thread High-Rise Sailor Wide Leg Ankle Jeans
$28.00
$35.00
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A New Day Women's Lettuce Edge Ankle Socks (Set of 6)
$10.00
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Being Frenshe Moon Milk Lip Balm
$14.69
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A New Day Mini Top Handle Handbag
$25.00
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Universal Thread Short Sleeve Crewneck Pullover Sweater
$25.00
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A New Day Mini Tulip Tote Handbag with Crossbody Strap
$25.00
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A New Day Cozy Knit Relaxed V-Neck Pullover
$25.00
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Wild Fable Freda Convertible Clog Slippers
$35.00
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A New Day Belted Pinched Handle Tote Handbag
$35.00
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A New Day Women’s Samantha Sling Back Kitten Heels
$45.00
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Levi's '90s Western Pieced Trucker Jacket
$118.00
Trench coats are having such a fashion moment — and not just on rainy days! Garcia loves the versatility. According to her, you could pair this faux suede pick with a simple base outfit like jeans and a tee, or even leggings and a tank if you’re running errands. Come holiday season, it’s the perfect piece to wear with your go-to LBD, too. Adding this trench makes the outfit! Suede is such a great texture for fall and paired with a trench silhouette, it’s the perfect combo. It also comes in navy blue.
Button downs are Garcia's most worn piece of clothing and according to her, this one by A New Day is incredible. It has her signature oversized fit and there are so many ways to wear it: dressed down with jeans, tucked in with slacks, layered under a blazer — the list goes on! Plus, the crinkle texture gives it that easy, undone vibe (and means a few light wrinkles won't show too much). It's available in black and white, with sizes XS through 4X. At just $25, Garcia suggests springing for both colors.
Wide-leg denim is the silhouette right now, says Garcia. These ones are effortless and easy, thanks to the mid-wash, but they still look polished. Pair them with a T-shirt or tank now, then layer up with a blazer or sweater as fall sets in. They're available in sizes 00 through 30.
Think of these as your updated ballet flat. The V silhouette on top is fresh and on-trend, while the memory foam insole provides comfort all day long, per Garcia. They’re the perfect swap for your sneakers if you’re looking for a transitional shoe that will instantly elevate your outfit.
Big, slouchy shoulder bags are everywhere this fall. This one’s just oversized enough that you can use as an everyday bag or a work bag (a 13-inch laptop will fit). It’s great for moms who need to throw all their kids’ things inside, too. Plus, it’s still elevated enough to wear at night.
Since guys typically love pieces that are easy to throw on and go with pretty much anything they already love, this soft shacket is the ideal fall layer. Made from durable twill canvas on the outside and soft waffled cotton on the inside, it provides warmth and even a pop of plaid on the liner. It's great for outdoor walks, sporting events and chilly evenings, per Garcia. Plus, it comes in regular and tall sizes.
For those who love a little accessory, if you really want to elevate your bag, Garcia says you can tie this satin scarf onto the strap. There are a ton of color-pattern options on Target.com, so you can opt for whichever style you prefer.
More Target fall fashion
Long cardigans are one of the best layering pieces to keep in your closet, since they’re a “throw on and go” option that’s ideal for in-between weather. This one’s available in sizes XS through 4X.
These wide-leg jeans hit right around the ankle, making them perfect for pairing with ballet flats now and booties when the weather starts to cool.
These lettuce edge socks come in pretty neutrals shades and will give any outfit a girly vibe. Pro tip: Get your holiday shopping started early — these would make perfect stocking stuffers.
This lip balm is a new drop from Ashley Tisdale’s brand, Being Frenshe, and it has us curious! Not only is the ingredient list impressive, but several Shop TODAY staffers favor the brand.
Commerce editor Vivien Moon previously shared, "I will go out of my way and go to Target just for products from this line because of how incredible everything they make smells."
With the rise of "corporate core" and "office siren" style, structured bags are having a moment. We can't believe this one (which also comes in black) is just $25.
This T-shirt style sweater certainly delivers on Parisian girl vibes. Wear it with a skirt, dark denim, office trousers ... the options are endless.
For just $25, this bucket bag will elevate any look. The brass accents add detail and the second strap will give you versatility.
Neutral sweaters are a staple for a reason, but every once in a while, a subtle switch-up is needed. This light green option provides an easy way to add a pop of color that will still pair well with almost everything in your closet.
These platform slippers will elevate your loungewear look with ease. And since the base is made from rubber, you can wear them to run errands in a pinch.
Whether for the office or a night out, this faux leather tote is a true classic.
Kitten heels are still the "it" heel of the moment and these ones, made in an autumn-ready burgundy, make it worth getting in on the trend.
Oversized denim jackets are optimal for wearing on top of hoodies, sweaters and sweatshirts. This one has a western design, which any country music fans will love.
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How we chose
We consulted Shop TODAY contributor Melissa Garcia, as well as the Shop TODAY editorial team, for items that are editor-approved based on newness, style and seasonality. To round out the list, we also considered items with high customer ratings.
For sponsored content, the Shop TODAY editorial team independently chooses products to recommend that are sold by the retailer (in this case, Target). The retailer does not review or approve the content. Learn more about Shop TODAY.
Meet the expert
- Melissa Garcia is a Shop TODAY lifestyle and fashion contributor. She has experience working on national brand campaigns, appearing on major television broadcasts and hosting fashion events for commerce destinations. With a relatable approach and her own eye-catching personal style, Garcia has become a go-to fashion resource in American media.
