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.
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."
Shop the Trend
Toteme
Plush Shearling Jacket Rye
NOUR HAMMOUR
Evita Extra Long Coat
WHO: Alexis Bennett, Commerce Content Lead, ELLE
"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."
Shop the Trend
STELLA MCCARTNEY
Lace-Trimmed Satin-Crepe Dress
ULLA JOHNSON
Rosine Lace-Trimmed Silk Crepe De Chine Midi Skirt
RABANNE
Lace-Trimmed Silk-Satin Maxi Dress
Leset
Barb Lace-Trimmed Satin Mini Dress
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."
Shop the Trend
ALAÏA
Infradito Leopard-Print Pony Hair Thong Sandals
Toteme
Belted Pony Hair Bucket Bag
DÉHANCHE
Hollyhock Calf Hair Belt
Le Monde Beryl
Printed Pony Hair Driving Loafers
KHAITE
Cate Leather-Trimmed Calf Hair Tote
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."
Shop the Trend
Proenza Schouler
Bronwen Checked Twill Shirt
Kallmeyer
Dakota Pleated Skirt in Airbrush Flannel
Brandon Maxwell
The Briggs Printed Silk Blouse
LESET
Carmen Checked Cotton and Silk-Blend Maxi Dress
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."
