Every week, I like to seek out the coolest sales of the moment—Not just because I'm a fashion editor, but because I personally love discovering chic discounted gems. Two places that stood out during my recent search were J.Crew and Abercrombie. J.Crew has The Fall Event sale happening now until October 14 where you can get 40% off select fall styles. Abercrombie has a few sales happening including getting an extra 20% off select clearance until October 7.

From cool jeans and classic dresses to sleek tops and timeless basics, I was more than pleased at all the standout pieces I came across, plus pretty much all of them can be worn year-round. In fact, "closet staple" came to mind when reviewing everything in my virtual cart. Keep scrolling to shop all 30 of my top sale finds from J.Crew and Abercrombie.

J.Crew

Abercrombie

We uncover style inspiration from many sources—runway collections, social media, the streets, and, yes, industry insiders. Enter the co-founder of Parker Thatch, Irene Chen. She's worked in the industry for 29 years, starting in the '90s at Calvin Klein and Donna Karan, and has a keen eye for what matters in fashion.

"Working at Calvin Klein or Donna Karan in the '90s was a wild ride. The energy was high, and it felt like the sky was the limit. It was the era of supermodels, and market weeks were absolute insanity. Travel was constant, the hours were brutal, and the pressure could be overwhelming. But honestly? I wouldn't change a thing. I learned every aspect of the business and gained priceless experience in product development," Chen told us. This time was formative, and the experiences shaped her approach to co-founding her accessory label Parker Thatch. For example, she learned how to turn her vision into a reality. "At Parker Thatch, we're committed to turning our vision for living life with ease and elegance into a reality—just as I saw done countless times during those years in fashion," she mentioned. "In essence, those years taught me the importance of resilience, creativity, and a clear brand vision. These principles continue to guide me as we build Parker Thatch."

Chen has also developed an inspiring personal style during her storied fashion career, from working in the industry in the '90s to now being at the helm of Parker Thatch. During this time, she's identified the key wardrobe staples that continue to work best for her. These are basics she's worn throughout her career and thinks will be stylish forever. "I love borrowing foundational pieces from menswear and layering them with personal touches like sweaters, jackets, and accessories," she said.

Keep scrolling for a list of the pieces Chen deems as closet essentials because of their modern yet classic nature to inspire your wardrobe. In addition to Chen's pick for each item, there are inspired product recommendations for your reference.

1. White Button-Down Shirt

"The white shirt's simplicity is its strength. It's a blank canvas that allows you to express your style through accessories or layering. Whether you dress it up with a statement necklace or keep it casual with rolled-up sleeves, the white shirt always looks effortlessly chic. I love to monogram mine with my initials."

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2. Jeans

"I love classic men's 501s for their straight cut. My go-to outfit is a button-down, jeans, and loafers—it's versatile, comfortable, and always effortless."

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3. Loafers

"The 1953 Horsebit Loafer [is] a wardrobe staple of mine. I've worn them since high school in both leather and suede. They elevate any outfit, whether paired with jeans or slacks."

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4. Tote Bag

"This was the first bag we made at Parker Thatch in 2009. Crafted from canvas sourced from a local fabric store and two strips of leather cut by my husband and co-founder, Matthew, the Mimi has since defined our brand. Its modern and versatile design instantly elevates any look."

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5. Fisherman/Cashmere Sweater

"I adore the rich history and timeless versatility of an Irish fisherman sweater. Whether layered with cozy cashmere sweaters or peeking out from under a tailored coat, it effortlessly elevates any ensemble with a touch of classic charm."

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6. Pinstripe Trousers

"Pinstripe slacks are a versatile piece that can easily transition from a formal setting to a more relaxed one. Pairing them with classic Stan Smiths, a white T-shirt, and a gray sweatshirt creates a stylish and comfortable outfit that's perfect for a variety of occasions. The combination of classic tailoring and casual elements makes it a timeless look that will never go out of style."

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7. Navy Blazer

"The navy blazer is indeed a wardrobe staple. It strikes that perfect balance between formal and casual, offering endless styling possibilities. A classic example of its versatility is my go-to uniform—a navy blazer, white shirt, jeans, and loafers. It's a polished yet relaxed look that can take you from a casual workday to a weekend outing with ease."

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8. Scarf/Bandana

"Bandanas in various sizes are my go-to layering piece. I always have one in my bag. I particularly love Hermès bandanas. There's something captivating about the idea of a bandana serving both practical purposes—originally shielding the face from dust and sun or protecting the neck from armor—and being transformed into a beautiful silk scarf."

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As a creative director, stylist and host, I believe what we wear is a powerful form of self-expression. My day-to-day style leans towards a relaxed sensibility, favouring tailored pieces and timeless separates, but for evening occasions, I love to embrace a bit of glam. Think floor-length maxi dresses, statement chandelier earrings and a spritz of my favourite fragrance.

In this column, I'll tell you how carefully chosen accessories can add drama and sophistication, and where to shop the best pieces. I'll delve into my love of mixing textures and embellishments and show you how to elevate simple outfits; like how I added a statement accessory to a silk two-piece to create a look that was named one of "the coolest street style looks" at this month's London Fashion Week by Pinterest. Or, how I restyled the cowl neck of a Ghost polka-dot dress into an off-the-shoulder neckline to allow sparkly clip-on earrings to shine.

With my styling notes and shopping links, each month I’ll share insights into navigating new-season trends and exploring mindful fashion purchases, which I hope inspires you to embrace your unique style and feel empowered in your choices. Here’s to a September filled with transformation, creativity, elegance and style!

4 ELEGANT ACCESSORY TRENDS TO ELEVATE YOUR AUTUMN OUTFITS

1. Heirloom Earrings

Style Notes: This September, I had the pleasure of attending two stunning events: the Tove spring/summer 2025 show and an intimate dinner with beauty brand Noble Panacea at The Tate Modern. In preparation, I found myself diving into my wardrobe to select pieces that make me feel confident, elegant and at ease, and to elevate both looks, I rented some statement accessories, transforming simple outfits into something impactful.

Heirloom-style earrings can add all of the drama and elevate the simplest of outfits into something special, giving focus to an interesting neckline or bare collarbone. Restyling the cowl neck of my Ghost polka-dot dress into an off-the-shoulder neckline made these rented Shrimps clip-on teardrop earrings pop.

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2. Slouchy Suede Totes

Style Notes: In autumn, my style often leans towards a darker tonal palette, so I add texture and dimension by injecting suede into my outfits. I love all the chocolate-brown, ginger and tan variations in coats, oversized blazers and structured top-handle bags, but this espresso tote from Toteme (below) is exactly what I've been looking for—an effortless, relaxed bag in a rich tone that drapes next to the body. The juxtaposition of suede adds warmth against a silk set or longline trench coat, and I love pairing this slouchy bag shape with a tailored suit and loafers as the perfect transitional outfit.

A suede tote is a great way to update your wardrobe with an intentional piece that will last season after season, and there are so many options available across brands and price points right now. Worn with washed-out denim and a simple tee in spring or with wool trousers and a cashmere knit as it gets cooler, a buttery suede bag in a biscuit-toned hue will last a lifetime and age well with wear.

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3. Cord Keepsake Necklaces

Style Notes: This summer, we saw cord necklaces feature in many stylish outfits, offering a subtle whisper of jewellery without a gold or silver chain. Inspired by the '90s and adorned with shells, stones and pendants, this effortless necklace style feels fresh with its nods to nature, the seaside and summer memories. Earlier in the year, I wore a linen maxi from Asceno to a lunch event and paired it with some statement earrings and a mini cord necklace, with my braids worn off my face (pictured above). The necklace, with a mini daisy disc pendant, was the perfect addition without overcomplicating the final look. Meanwhile, in the below look, a vintage-inspired floral design elevated my silk set. Both the necklaces are by Daisy London.

Leaving behind the bohemian sensibility in the summer months and approaching the autumn season ahead, keepsake necklaces return with sculptural pendants, metal pebbles and glass beads hung on relaxed rope or leather cords, evolving further into castanets and leather lanyards. Spotted on stylish creators including Brittany Bathgate, Charlotte Emily Sanders, Alexis Forman and Monikh Dale; these ornamental cord necklaces elevate shirting, cashmere knits, kimono-style jackets and elegant silk dresses with a treasured conversation piece. If you’re into a spot of crafting, making a keepsake necklace is a beautiful project—a black shell or deep-red stone, once attached to cord, leather or suede, is transformed into a forever piece that is uniquely yours.

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4. Structured Top-Handle Bags

Style Notes: Miniature iterations of structured bags were styled in many of the A/W 24 collections. Paired with sleek tailoring at Toteme or against silk two-pieces in the Khaite show, smaller top-handle bags feature in a lot of my autumn outfit inspiration. In the colder months when we start layering our knits under heavier coats, a mini bag is practical yet dainty and adds elegance to an outfit. I will be styling my mini white Acne bag with my suede trench from Toteme, as I love the mix of textures with the small pop of ivory leather against the jet-black suede.

Although small in size, this mini accessory can add structure and focus to an outfit. I recently loaned a navy Savette bag from Net-a-Porter to elevate my look for the TOVE show. Against a dramatic silk blouse and trousers, the top-handle bag added a modern sophistication with its hardware and stitch detailing. Whenever I carry a mini structured top-handle, I always feel elegant, sophisticated and relaxed, which for me, is the true perfect accessory and how I want to show up this season.

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I like to show all of my favorite retailers love, but when it comes to my basics, it's hard to beat J.Crew and its high-quality fabrics, stylish silhouettes, and on-trend pieces. I can't get enough of the personal style of über-chic Creative Director and Head of Design Olympia Gayot. Now that fall is in full swing, I was thinking it's a good time to update my fall basics, and there's no better place to start than my holy grail of stellar basics. While scrolling through the brand's site, I found so many good things that it felt cruel not to share, from the perfect ballet flats to pair with denim to "looks way more expensive than it is" cashmere sweaters. You're going to love these 30 J.Crew fall picks just as much as I do.

Keep scrolling to see the 30 fall J.Crew basics I'm eyeing at the moment.

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one editor, staffer, or influencer shares their top 30 must-haves or current wish-list items.

As a mom of two little ones, I am very familiar with the struggle to summon the energy to have a semblance of a fashion moment. In order to make my morning routine more effective in that regard, I have decided to be more intentional in what I keep on hand in both my closet and beauty bag—the idea being to have a solid set of classic pieces, with some trendy moments mixed in, that I can reach for when getting ready. Including a low-lift selection of beauty products that yield high results in the please-make-me-look-rested department.

With that in mind, I broke down my top fashion and beauty finds of the moment below. Think effortless button-downs, cool jeans, and standout dresses alongside effective skincare, glow-boosting makeup, and other essentials. Keep scrolling to discover and shop 30 chic, easy, and reliable fashion and beauty picks that I swear by as a busy mom.

Fashion

Beauty

Welcome to the time of year in which we're bombarded with fall trend after fall trend. It's a fun time for a fashion lover, but it's also fairly exhausting. With the prevalence of online shopping, there are endless options to choose from out there, and keeping up with trends on top of that is a lot. I don't know about you, but sometimes, I just need a palate cleanser. In fashion speak, this translates to classy, trend-free shopping.

Three retailers with plenty of classy, versatile fall items right now are Madewell, Aritzia, and Zara. Sure, they have plenty of trend-forward items in stock as well, but I turned my focus to the expensive-looking items from these retailers that are trendless (some trendless items are also trends, but that's another story), elegant, and cool. Keep scrolling for my editor-vetted picks for anyone who's tired of trends but wants to look chic.

Madewell

Aritzia

Zara

It's evident with just a quick scroll through a fashion-filled social media feed that the red trend is still going strong with no end in sight. That said, if you haven't already jumped on the bandwagon and you're red-curious, now is a great time to try out a vibrant piece. With the ongoing interest in the color, retailers have doubled down on their offerings, especially with bolder red options. I set out to find the best of the best pieces right now since I just can't get enough of the stylish color trend.

From Nordstrom to J.Crew to H&M and more, I found a lovely array of red finds to wear now and for many seasons to come. Think cozy sweaters, pretty dresses, trendy shoes like mesh flats, and so much more. They are all so chic it's no wonder the fashion set isn't ready to let go of the trend just yet. Keep scrolling to shop 41 incredibly chic red pieces and to check out a variety of outfit ideas to get you inspired on how to pull off the cool color.

With the change of the seasons come some epic sales. Two such sales are happening over at Gap and Banana Republic right now, and there is an endless selection of standout pieces. Now until September 11, you can get 30% off or 40% off four or more selected items at Gap, not to mention all ongoing deals in its highly discounted sale section. At Banana Republic, sale styles are now up to 40% off. Both retailers are known for their timeless yet of-the-moment pieces, and I am having a hard time narrowing down my favorites.

While shopping both sales, I kept my eye out for any piece that gave off fashion-person vibes. This included elevated basics like tank tops and button-down shirts as well as classic dresses and jeans. I also tracked down some trendier finds that still have a timeless feel like a leopard-print top and vibrant tomato-red sandals. Keep scrolling to shop 30 incredibly chic sale picks from Gap and Banana Republic.

Gap

Banana Republic

This might be an unpopular opinion, but summer isn't my favorite season. I'm not a summer hater, but for me, there's so much more to love about fall—specifically fall fashion. Lower temperatures allow for a wider range of styling options, which makes getting dressed infinitely more fun. Fall technically starts on September 22 or 23, but as soon as we get past Labor Day, it becomes fall in my book.

Since my mind is already well into the next season, I decided to get a head start on shopping and revamp my fall basics. Basics are the backbone of any wardrobe, so I always make sure I have a solid foundation and then sprinkle in seasonal trends that fit my personal style. After browsing Revolve's new-arrivals section—one of my go-to retailers for a range of brands and price points—I'm overwhelmed with how many options I've already saved in my cart, from chic cardigans to ballet flats and relaxed denim. Below, I'm highlighting the 31 best fall basics I found at Revolve.

This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

For me, specifically, there are nine staple pieces that I can recall wearing at some point in every season and practically every year of my adult life, even back when I was still trying to work out what my personal style looked like. They are the backbone of my year-round wardrobe—items that have and will always call my closet home (no matter how small said closet is). Below, find out which pieces made my list. And if you don't already own them all, I'd suggest you get acquainted. Then again, maybe that's just my bias talking.

Levi's Jeans

I was probably around 3 years old when I got my first pair of 501s. Technically, they were my sister's, but as is required of the youngest child, I stole them. Sure, there was a time between then and now that I strayed, mostly during Abercrombie's heyday when I refused to shop anywhere else. But it's been over a decade now that I've worn Levi's almost exclusively. If I had to guess, I'd say I own 10 pairs, mostly 501s, plus one pair of extremely well-fitting 701s, some cutoff 505s, and a Baggy Dad.

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Cashmere Sweaters

I recently pulled out a bin from underneath my bed and found over 30 cashmere sweaters, none of which I would ever get rid of. I have designer ones from Khaite and Prada, as well as affordable alts from J.Crew, Banana Republic, Nordstrom, and even H&M, all of which I honestly love equally. They just really come in handy, whether I'm pairing them with jeans in the fall and winter, A-line skirts in the spring, or cutoff Levi's on cooler summer days.

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Oval Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a very personal purchase, but once you find a pair that works for your face shape and style preferences, you never really need to buy another pair. At least, that's what my experience with eyewear has been like. I was gifted a pair of Linda Farrow oval-shaped sunglasses about three years ago and haven't worn another pair of sunglasses since. Oval shapes are elegant and timeless, whether you opt for classic black or cool tortoiseshell.

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Technical Jackets

Practicality definitely plays a role in building a great, well-rounded wardrobe. If everything you own and love will be ruined if you get stuck in the rain or snow, you'll have to replace them over and over again, which is the exact opposite of what I'm advocating for. Such is why I'm so reliant on technical outerwear that's still chic. Finding a jacket or coat that you can wear stylishly when it's dry or wet is what everyone should strive for.

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Slip Dresses

Slip dresses might not be as "trendy" or talked-about as they once were, but I'll never get rid of mine. What I love most about them is how many styling opportunities they bring. I like to wear mine under short jackets or fitted tops, giving off the illusion of a skirt. You can also wear them without anything on top, but with a sweater tied around the waist or thrown over your shoulders. Also, depending on your choice of shoes and bag, you can seriously dress them up or down, with heeled Manolos and a clutch creating a wedding-appropriate ensemble and ballet flats or sneakers creating a casual uniform.

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Luxury Watch

The best investment I ever made was in a luxury watch. In my opinion, nothing makes an outfit look more luxurious and expensive than adding a Cartier Tank or Bulgari Serpenti to your wrist, even if said outfit is just a pair of ratty old Levi's and a white T-shirt. Plus, they hold their value much better than most designer handbags, shoes, and ready-to-wear.

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Poplin Shirts

Winter, spring, summer, or fall, all you have to do is throw on a poplin shirt and some bottoms—be it a pair of jeans, trousers, or a midi skirt—and your outfit will be set. Sure, in the colder months, you'll have to layer a sweater on top for added warmth, but your shirt choice will be just as appropriate as it was in 80ºF summer weather.

Lately, I've been steering more toward pullover options like the above from Banana Republic as opposed to button-down shirts, but I'll never get rid of my trusty classics—only add to the poplin collection with new, interesting alternatives.

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Trench Coats

Whenever an item in your closet can be equal parts chic and practical, it will probably get a lot of use. At least, that's the case in my household, where trench coats are a must for that exact reason. Whenever there's a slight chance of rain coming, I plan my entire outfit around a trench coat, be that a pair of jeans, a sweater, and boots, or a minidress and pumps. There really is nothing in your closet that won't go nicely with a sleek trench.

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Rectangular Handbags

I looked over at my small but mighty handbag collection the other day and realized something interesting: All but one of my bags is rectangular in shape. I guess that's just the shape that works best for me in that it's spacious, classic, and aesthetically pleasing. The silhouette also gives me permanent '90s Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy vibes, probably because my bag with the most wear is my Prada 1995 Re-Edition bag, which is nicknamed the Carolyn because the late style icon wore the original bag in the '90s.

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