Ahead of the Curve: The 7 Fall Trends Insiders Are Shopping First

It’s arguably the best time for fashion right now. The fall collections we’ve been chatting about since spring are now beginning to arrive online and in stores. Fashion month is jut around the corner, but before I shift my focus to what’s to come in the 2026 (hard to believe we’re already looking ahead there), I’m sitting down to discuss everything fall 2025.

The runways were replete with fresh ideas on autumnal dressing, from undeniably luxe fur outerwear to delicate lace-trimmed skirts and dresses and some of the most elegant handbags I’ve seen in a while. All in all, the upcoming season is set to be one of incredibly chic and polished dressing, and I’m already anticipating which items, runway looks, and overall trends fashion people will gravitate toward first. I asked some of the most stylish women I know who work as editors, stylists, consultants, and tastemakers in the industry to share the one fall trend that they’re prioritizing above any others for the season ahead. Here, discover the top investments they’re making, the inspirational runway looks they have in mind, and the exact buys they’re eyeing to execute on them.

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Altuzarra; Launchmetrics Spotlight/Fendi; Launchmetrics Spotlight/Khaite; Launchmetrics Spotlight/Toteme)

WHO: Shay June, Stylist and Consultant

“Texture but specifically fur – a carry over from last year, there was quite a bit on the fall 2025 runways. It adds textural interest and sheen that lift the look of heavier winter fabrics. I love everything Nour Hammour does—the Evita Coat in particular is such a statement, and feels very Khaite adjacent.”

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(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Chloé; Launchmetrics Spotlight/Alberta Ferretti; Launchmetrics Spotlight/Fendi)

WHO: Alexis Bennett, Commerce Content Lead, ELLE

(Image credit: Steph Geddes)

“This season, my cart is filled with lace-trimmed items, from frill-adorned T-shirts to embroidered silk skirts. I plan on wearing them with cozy sweaters and tough leather jackets to lean into the dark romance trend. After years of serious shirting and menswear-inspired pants, I’m so glad being a girl is back.”

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WHO: April Hennig, President, Moda Operandi

“Pony hair accessories are having a major moment—especially in animal prints. Our fall lineup includes cow print boat shoes, zebra mary janes, and leopard everything, from an incredible pair of Alaïa thong sandals to Toteme’s signature bucket bag. The standout piece from the next iteration of Conner Ives’ collaboration with Jimmy Choo (which we’ll have on site very soon) is a towering, thigh-high zebra boot. What’s great about this trend is how versatile it is: depending on the way it’s styled, it can feel western, preppy or totally glam.”

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(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Kallmeyer; Launchmetrics Spotlight/Brandon Maxwell; Launchmetrics Spotlight/TWP)

WHO: Jordan Goldberg, Managing Editor, Editorialist

“This fall, I’m all in on plaid. It feels right for the season—maybe even a bit obvious at first glance? Luckily, brands like Proenza Schouler, Leset, and Kallmeyer have given it a contemporary spin for the 2025 season, and I’ve already begun incorporating the print into my transitional weather looks; think a plaid button-down shirt paired with long denim shorts or a breezy plaid skirt with a tank top.”

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(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Chanel; Launchmetrics Spotlight/Givenchy; The Row; Launchmetrics Spotlight/Khaite)

WHO: Kerry Pieri, Brand Consultant and Content Creator

“I’m loving all of the new, interesting trench coats we’re seeing —from shorter versions to interesting necklines. It feels like a refreshing update on a classic.”