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    1. Fashion
    2. Fall fashion

    New Yorkers Are Already Wearing These Classic On-Sale Pieces From COS, Madewell, and J.Crew for Fall

    Not to mention, they all cost less than $250.

    Lauren Tappan's avatar
    By Lauren Tappan
    Published 29 August 2024 In Buying Guides

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    women wearing low-key basics (blazers, trousers, button-down shirts, sweaters, skirts)
    (Image credit: Launchmetrics)
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    As a fashion editor, it’s my job to scour the streets for the latest trends. Luckily, I live in New York, so there’s trendy outfit inspiration on nearly every corner. Recently, I’ve noticed that savvy city dwellers are wearing low-key fall essential-type pieces anchored in sophistication (think crisp button-down shirts, flowy tailored trousers, and dainty ballet flats). Given that I have a taste for minimalism, I’m ready to fill my shopping cart with everything I need to master the look right now. Here's the good news: All of the pieces I want to buy are on sale for Labor Day at J.Crew, Madewell, and COS.

    I like to buy a few new pieces ahead of each new season, but I shop within reason—my style is classic. So, I turn to all three retailers when I want to update my closet ahead of a new season because they all have mastered that elevated vibe I gravitate towards, and they have not let me down this season. Case in point: Each sale section is chock-full of fall's trendiest colors that don't look so of the moment that I won't be able to wear them in a year or two. Plus, the prices are too good to pass up—my entire shopping list is going for less than $250 right now.

    There are thousands of deals across all three retailers, so I’ve perused each site so that you don’t have to. Ahead, discover a curated edit of low-key items that will give you that effortless New York edge and get all of the details on the sales you should be shopping for ahead of the new season.

    Latest Videos FromMarie Claire
    Watch full video here:

    Shop Trending On-Sale Pieces at J.Crew

    Street stylers wear blazers, trench coats, and slip skirts in New York City.

    Street stylers wear blazers, trench coats, and slip skirts in New York City—all classics worth investing in.

    (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)

    J.Crew's Long Weekend Sale Event is giving shoppers 40 percent off site-wide (with a few exclusions). My picks include a great tailored vest, the perfect black blazer, and a pair of slingback heels that you can wear everywhere. The sale is running through Tuesday, September 3. That means you can shop New Yorker-approved pieces like trench coats and slip skirts for less.

    J.Crew Double-Breasted Vest in Italian Wool Blend (Was $168)

    J.Crew Double-Breasted Vest in Italian Wool Blend (Was $168)

    I’ve noticed countless New Yorkers wearing tailored vests like this one. Especially when styled alongside matching bottoms, this suit staple has become a go-to essential. Try out the look with this top from J.Crew and style it with the label’s pleated full-length trousers.

    New Icon Trench

    J.Crew New Icon Trench (Was $348)

    This trench is in a word, perfect. My closet is full of chic fall jackets and coats, but I always have room for a great new trench.

    J.Crew New Going-Out Blazer in Stretch Twill (Was $198)

    J.Crew New Going-Out Blazer in Stretch Twill (Was $198)

    Take your look from the office to a night on the town with J.Crew’s New Going-Out blazer. Pair this sleek number with a denim skirt, a snug long-sleeve top, and a pair of your favorite fall boots.

    J.Crew Odette Cable-Knit Sweater Lady Jacket (Was $168)

    J.Crew Odette Cable-Knit Sweater Lady Jacket (Was $168)

    This cozy layer puts a cable-knit twist on the standard jacket style. In addition to offering a comfortable fit, J.Crew’s lady jacket is hard to resist because of its charming details (like shimmering gold crest buttons and flattering flap pockets).

    J.Crew Essential Pant in City Crepe (Was $158)

    J.Crew Essential Pants in City Crepe (Were $158)

    Yes, low-key pieces are trending at the moment, but they’re also a great investment for the long haul. Take, for example, this pair of black crepe pants. They’re super streamlined and can match with practically any top of your choice.

    J.Crew Made-In-Italy Colette Buckled Slingback Heels in Croc-Embossed Leather (Was $248)

    J.Crew Made-In-Italy Colette Buckled Slingback Heels in Croc-Embossed Leather (Was $248)

    Kitten heels had quite a moment this summer, and they’ll continue to rise in popularity as temperatures drop. Style J.Crew’s Colette slingbacks for fall with a fuzzy cashmere cardigan, floor-sweeping baggy jeans, and a structured trench coat.

    Contrast-Trim Cardigan Sweater (Was $178)

    Contrast-Trim Cardigan Sweater (Was $178)

    While I prepare to enter my laid-back-and-luxurious era, I’ll be adding this cotton cardigan to my shopping cart. There’s something oh-so sophisticated about the intricate trimming and polished gold buttons.

    J.Crew Collection Garçon Embellished Shirt (Was $98)

    J.Crew Collection Garçon Embellished Shirt (Was $98)

    No wardrobe is complete without a white button-down shirt. Given that this piece is so easygoing, there are plenty of styling routes to take. For starters, I would recommend pairing this piece with a sweater vest and a pleated skirt. Add some gold jewelry and a sleek handbag, and you’ve got yourself a cute fall outfit.

    J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt in Floral Luster Charmeuse (Was $90)

    J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt in Floral Luster Charmeuse (Was $90)

    The ‘90s era slip skirt is taking another spin around the trend cycle. J.Crew offers seven gorgeous colors, but if versatility is your priority, consider the brand’s “warm boulder shade” pictured here.

    J.Crew Open-Back Puff-Sleeve Top in Stretch Cotton Blend (Was $70)

    J.Crew Open-Back Puff-Sleeve Top in Stretch Cotton Blend (Was $70)

    This isn’t your ordinary black T-shirt. Take note of the delicate ribbon-tie detail, slightly puffed sleeves, and sultry open-back silhouette that makes this top stand apart from the rest.

    Shop Trending On-Sale Pieces at Madewell

    New Yorkers style blazers, jeans, and gray sweaters

    Gray sweaters, blue jeans, and oversized jackets are all mainstays in New York for fall.

    (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)

    Madewell is running a few sales right now. You can score an extra 40 percent off of existing sale pieces. The brand is also offering 25 percent off fall essentials—like sweater dresses, straight-leg jeans, and more—and a whopping extra 50 percent off select on-sale denim.

    Madewell Ribbed Mini Sweater Dress (Was $138)

    Madewell Ribbed Mini Sweater Dress (Was $138)

    While building your wardrobe of low-key pieces, don’t forget to add a snug sweater dress to your collection. This one from Madewell is crafted from a warm blend of wool and cotton, so you’ll stay nice and toasty even on the coldest days.

    Madewell The '90s Straight Jean (Was $128)

    Madewell The '90s Straight Jeans (Were $128)

    According to Marie Claire’s denim trends forecast, straight-leg jeans aren’t going anywhere this fall. So, go ahead and invest in this structured pair designed with a high waistline and an ankle-grazing hem.

    Waffle Knit Crewneck Short-Sleeve Crop Tee (Was $45)

    Waffle Knit Crewneck Short-Sleeve Crop Tee (Was $45)

    During that awkward transitional period when it’s not quite cool enough to throw on a hefty layer, you’ll want a short-sleeve shirt in your closet. Madewell’s waffle knit top is designed with a breathable cotton fabric, so you won’t have to worry about overheating.

    Madewell The Transport Camera Bag (Was $128)

    Madewell The Transport Camera Bag (Was $128)

    New Yorkers prefer to be hands-free at all times, and this camera crossbody bag is the perfect way to do that.

    Madewell The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant (Was $88)

    Madewell The Harlow Wide-Leg Pants (Were $88)

    I’ve been eyeing these Harlow pants for quite some time, and now that they’re on sale for $70, I have no excuse but to add them to my wardrobe. I plan to round out my lineup of fall work outfits by wearing these bottoms on repeat with a matching suit jacket.

    Madewell The Slim Blazer (Was $178)

    Madewell The Slim Blazer (Was $178)

    Before you write linen blazers off as a summer staple, you should know that they function well for fall too. The key to styling them? Layering. Style this one from Madewell over a long-sleeve top for extra warmth.

    Madewell Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater (Was $98)

    Madewell Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater (Was $98)

    You can never go wrong with a classic turtleneck. With such an uncomplicated design, this timeless piece will hang around in your closet for many seasons to come. Do yourself a favor and invest in it now.

    Madewell High-Rise Straight Cargo Trousers in Satin

    Madewell High-Rise Straight Cargo Trousers in Satin (Were $128)

    Are you on a mission to enhance your going-out outfits? Look no further than Madewell’s cargo trousers. They’re covered in a luxe satin fabric that practically screams, “Take me out to a party.”

    Madewell Owen Polo Sweater Tank (Was $68)

    Madewell Owen Polo Sweater Tank (Was $68)

    Don’t overlook this sleeveless top for your cold-weather wardrobe. When styled beneath an extra layer, like a denim jacket or a leather jacket, this polo sweater tank will prove to be quite useful.

    Madewell Tie-Waist Tiered Midi Dress (Was $158)

    Madewell Tie-Waist Tiered Midi Dress (Was $158)

    I can’t seem to take my eyes off this navy blue tiered dress. I know that this billowing frock will come in handy, whether I’m wearing it for a relaxed day in the office or a semi-casual weekend outing. I’ll dress this piece up even further with a pair of high-knee kitten heel boots.

    Shop Trending On-Sale Pieces at COS

    Launchmetrics Spotlight

    Street stylers in New York prove that long shorts and bubble hems deserve a spot next to a classic button-down in their fall outfits.

    (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)

    COS is running different sales based on your spending over the Labor Day weekend. If you spend $150 or more, you save 15 percent. If you spend $250 or more, you get 20 percent off. Finally, if you spend $350 or more, you'll save 30 percent. Every discount is accessible with the code "SHOPFALL" in your cart. Ahead, I found 10 pieces (mostly in neutral hues, plus one electric blue pick) for less than $250, with most under $200.

    COS Pleated Leather Mary-Jane Ballet Flats (Were $170)

    COS Pleated Leather Mary-Jane Ballet Flats (Were $170)

    Mary-Jane style ballet flats are everywhere right now, and this pair features subtle ruching for added flair.

    COS Wool-Trimmed Car Coat (Was $290)

    COS Wool-Trimmed Car Coat (Was $290)

    You've heard of a barn jacket, but have you heard of a car coat? This one from COS is the epitome of chic.

    COS Boxy Double-Faced Wool Jacket (Was $190)

    COS Boxy Double-Faced Wool Jacket (Was $190)

    As a petite girl, cropped jackets are everything to me. This wool one is the perfect transitional layer.

    COS Scarf-Detail Wool Maxi Dress (Was $170)

    COS Scarf-Detail Wool Maxi Dress (Was $170)

    The scarf detail on the neckline makes this otherwise simple navy maxi dress a must-buy.

    COS Oversized Tie-Waist Shirt (Was $135)

    COS Oversized Tie-Waist Shirt (Was $135)

    This might look like your average button-down, but it has a delicate tied detail at the waist to give you some shape.

    COS Balloon-Hem Maxi Skirt (Was $150)

    COS Balloon-Hem Maxi Skirt (Was $150)

    Bubble skirts were everywhere this summer, with fans like Kylie Jenner and Ayo Edebiri. While mini skirt options were trending during the warmer weather, this maxi option is perfect for fall.

    COS Fold Shoulder Bag (Was $190)

    COS Fold Shoulder Bag (Was $190)

    East-West bags are so cool right now. This one from COS is my personal favorite pick.

    COS Longline Wool-Blend Twill Shorts (Were $135)

    COS Longline Wool-Blend Twill Shorts (Were $135)

    Bermuda shorts were another polarizing summer fashion trend I'm happy to see going into the fall season. I expect to see lots of these styled with knee-high boots.

    COS Chunky Wool Crew-Neck Sweater (Was $135)

    COS Chunky Wool Crew-Neck Sweater (Was $135)

    I can't stop thinking about this electric blue sweater. The chunky wool knit is a dream for chilly days.

    COS Square-Toe Ballet Flats (Were $170)

    COS Square-Toe Ballet Flats (Were $170)

    Katie Holmes is a square-toed ballet flat devotee. This glossy pair from COS only further proves that they're a shoe trend worth investing in.

    Explore More
    J.Crew Madewell COS
    Marie Claire Newsletter

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    Lauren Tappan
    Lauren Tappan
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    Fashion Editor

    Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers trend forecasting and shopping stories, highlighting runway-inspired styles and a blend of emerging and established brands. Prior to joining Marie Claire, she worked as a freelance editor for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE, specializing in e-commerce content and curating seasonal trend reports. Earlier in her career, she worked at Town & Country, developing a strong portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.

    Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, she served as editor-in-chief of The Walk, the university's fashion magazine, and completed internships at Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.

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