Autumn is Approaching—These 7 Distinct It Items Will Be Worn by Every Fashion Enthusiast Next Season.

      Every August, there comes a time when I mentally disengage from summer. The linen dresses that excited me in June start to feel worn out, sandals lose their charm, and my thoughts shift almost entirely to what I'll wear as the temperatures finally fall. Fall fashion has this effect on me. Perhaps it's the return of true layering or the anticipation of a fantastic coat, but no season entices me to shop quite like this one. However, this year, I'm less focused on the broad trends we've been discussing since the fall/winter collections debuted on the runways. I already grasp the general vibe of the season; now, I'm seeking something much more specific: which exact pieces are about to become iconic.

      You know the ones I'm referring to. They aren't necessarily the showiest on the runway, nor are they adorned with the largest logos. Instead, they gradually begin to appear in the wardrobes of the style figures I admire most—the editors, buyers, stylists, and industry professionals who seem to always be six months ahead of everyone else. After months of observing the fall/winter 2026 collections, monitoring new arrivals, and mentally noting what fashion enthusiasts are gravitating towards, I have a solid idea of which pieces are about to stand out. Some are fresh styles from major luxury brands, while others are very specific takes on trends that seem ready to dominate the category altogether. Regardless, these aren't merely predictions of what will be trendy; they're the seven items I believe will be remembered as the defining pieces of fall 2026, and if my intuition is accurate, you'll soon see them everywhere.

      Khaite Croc-Embossed Leather Jacket

      Khaite has once again made me rethink the leather jacket. The croc-embossed option from its Fall/Winter 26 runway appears glossy, luxurious, and just unique enough to become the season's top investment piece.

      Prada Croco-Print Leather Coat

      MANGO Crocodile-Effect Leather Coat

      Tory Burch Beaded Pumps

      Fashion lovers have been enamored with Tory Burch's beaded pumps since their debut on the Spring/Summer 26 runway, and now they're finally available for purchase. They're quirky, attractive, and perfectly showcase the offbeat footwear the brand excels at.

      Tory Burch Beaded Pump in Ivory

      Prada Embroidered Satin Slingback Pumps

      Tory Burch Beaded Pump in Brown

      Underwater Weaving Studio Basket Bag

      If Jane Birkin were to carry a basket bag in 2026, I'd like to think it would be this one. Underwater Weaving Studio remains relatively under the radar, which only enhances the cool factor of its beautifully handmade-looking bags.

      Underwater Weaving Studio Flower Market Basket

      Underwater Weaving Studio Perfect Tote

      Underwater Weaving Studio Carol Lunch Basket

      Celine Jazz Flats

      Jazz flats are currently trending, but Celine's white version might be my favorite among them. They're sleek and unexpected, making the ballet flats we've worn for years seem a bit too predictable.

      Celine Ballet Lace Up Shoe in Lambskin

      Madewell The Greta Oxford

      Atelier Jéa Tassel Cummerbund

      Sometimes, an outfit just needs one unique styling accessory, and Atelier Jéa's tassel cummerbund fits the bill perfectly. Pair it with a simple dress, blazer, or button-down, and the entire look suddenly feels much more intentional.

      Atelier Jéa Tassel Cummerbund

      LE SUNDIAL Vesper Tasseled Striped Cord Belt

      Gia Borghini Opera Pumps

      GiaBorghini's opera pumps have a distinctive old-world, almost Venetian charm that feels refreshing right now. They're whimsical without being overly sweet—the kind of shoes that add interest to even the simplest outfit.

      GiaBorghini Renata Feather Satin in Black

      GiaBorghini Renata Satin in Ivory

      Anonymous Copenhagen Phia 55 Pin Shiny Lamb Black

      Evening Pouch

      The standout bag for fall may not have a recognizable silhouette or even a handle. Evening pouches made of silk, satin, and velvet, with or without a dramatic tassel, possess a quiet, slightly eccentric elegance that makes them feel far more sophisticated than another structured It bag.

      Le Sundial Lee Tasseled Velvet Shoulder Bag

      MANGO Satin Fringe Handbag

      SOPHIE BUHAI Teardrop Embellished Satin Pouch