The Best Fabric to Wear This Fall and the Versatile Ways We’re Styling It

The best parts of transitioning from one season to the next are the exciting style opportunities and wardrobe updates that inevitably follow. But, although we love adding layers back into our rotation and freeing our favorite cardigans from the depths of our closets, this seasonally fickle period isn’t without its challenges.

For one, it can feel like you’re stuck in temperature purgatory; one hour you’re shivering, the next you’re sweating. The weather can change on a dime, so it’s tough to know what to wear and how to style it in order to look good and also feel good.

One thing we’ve learned about transitional dressing is that material is key when it comes to feeling comfortable and dry all day. Our fabric of choice is cotton; it’s soft, hypoallergenic, and breathable, and it truly makes all the difference in the comfort department. Not only that, but some of the most trend-forward pieces of the moment are cotton-rich, meaning they’re made with 60 percent or more cotton.

It doesn’t disappoint in the quality department either. Cotton is strong, durable, and long-lasting. As a plant-based, natural fiber, it’s even a more sustainable choice for the planet because it’s biodegradable and doesn’t shed microplastics into waterways. In short, it’s a material we feel good about all around.

Stephanie Nguyen, Senior Style Editor

“In California, fall is the time of the year when we experience the most unbearable heat waves. And as a fashion-lover, it’s challenging because I’m itching to break out my fall clothes, but need to dress for the high temps. My compromise? Breathable cotton fabrics. By opting for the natural material, I’m able to get away with wearing more autumnal silhouettes, but still feel cool and comfortable.

To escape the heat, I love heading to a museum. This cropped vest and wide-leg trouser combo is effortlessly polished and nonrestricting for a day on my feet and strikes the perfect balance between on-trend and timeless. A lightweight knit draped around my shoulders will help ward off any chill from the AC.”

  • Priscila Vest

    $180
    from revolve.com

    Buy Now

    Cruise Wide-Leg Pant

    $130
    from bananarepublic.gap.com

    Buy Now

    Rib Cardigan

    $55
    from gap.com

    Buy Now

    Chunky Loafer

    $248
    from thereformation.com

    Buy Now

  • Las Palmas Sunglasses

    $15
    from oscarandfrank.com

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    Mini Canvas Leather Shoulder Bag

    $1850
    from net-a-porter.com

    Buy Now

Kathleen Owens, Style Editor

“For me, fall is all about spooky season, and this year, I’m particularly excited about going on a haunted walking tour in my home city. I’ll grab a group of friends and we’ll explore, with a tour guide of course, all of the creepiest spots Chicago has to offer. Comfort will be key since I’ll be on my feet in the elements, and October weather in Chicago can be a tossup — especially in the evening — so easy layers are essential.

I love how these cotton pieces are naturally breathable, meaning I can wear more than one without overheating. It’s not often you find a moto jacket that isn’t leather or vegan leather, which can feel stuffy or stiff. This soft cotton version will keep me extra comfortable while still giving my outfit some edge.”

“I love how these cotton pieces are naturally breathable, meaning I can wear more than one without overheating.”

  • Mock Neck T-Shirt

    $30
    from nordstrom.com

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    Cotton Moto Jacket

    $198
    from nordstrom.com

    Buy Now

    Plaid Straight Leg Pant

    $78
    from revolve.com

    Buy Now

    Chunky Bootie

    $119
    from revolve.com

    Buy Now

  • Nutella Croco Embossed Bag

    $358
    from shopbop.com

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    Mini Layering Set

    $108
    from gorjana.com

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Moná Thomas, Living Editor

“When the leaves start changing and it gets a bit cooler outside, there’s nothing more fun than going to a pumpkin patch. Something about the orange pumpkins and browning leaves whisper: autumn is here.

While walking through the rows and piles of pumpkins, my main desire is comfort, so when it comes to my outfit, I opt for my favorite pair of ripped jeans and layer up with a hoodie and quilted jacket. The breathable cotton material of the hoodie and jacket is soft on my skin and keeps me warm from those fall breezes. Plus, since the jeans are durable, I can rock this outfit all season and even next fall. It’s relaxed fashion meets dependable function.”

“Since these cotton jeans are durable, I can rock this outfit all season and even next fall.”

  • Cashmere Blend Hoodie

    $150
    from somethingnavy.com

    Buy Now

    Quilted Jacket

    $175
    from somethingnavy.com

    Buy Now

    Ripped High Waist Crop Jeans

    $248
    from nordstrom.com

    Buy Now

    Leather Chelsea Boot

    $195
    from everlane.com

    Buy Now

  • Tube Hoops

    $78
    from mejuri.com

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    Packable Sling Bag

    $45
    from awaytravel.com

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Sam Sasso, Style Editor

“Without fail, my mother and I plan one weekend every October to go apple picking together — same farm, same apples, same bumpy wagon ride that leaves me smelling like hay. Since our annual apple picking trip means I’ll be traveling to Connecticut and living out of a suitcase for a couple of days, I try to pick an outfit that won’t just work for apple picking, but also for anything else the weekend may entail. In other words, I keep it simple.

October has been unseasonably hot the past few years, so I like having a long-sleeved cotton shirt that can keep me warm if there’s a breeze, but can also be easily removed if I’m a little sweaty. Because the potential for sweat is real, I like to wear a comfortable but cute tank top underneath — preferably something white that looks super-clean against denim. Denim is an easy go-to for fall, especially a cotton bootcut. Not to mention the durability; trekking through a hilly orchard can get messy, and distressed jeans are perfectly appropriate compared to a pair of linen trousers. Like I said, simple.”

  • Ribbed Racerback Tank

    $30
    from bananarepublic.gap.com

    Buy Now

    Stripe Button-Up Shirt

    $195
    from nordstrom.com

    Buy Now

    High Rise Bootcut Jeans

    $198
    from shopbop.com

    Buy Now

    Leather Western Belt

    $52
    from nordstrom.com

    Buy Now

  • Campo Sneaker

    $165
    from nordstrom.com

    Buy Now

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