12 Quince Writer-approved Fall Fashion Essentials

Since its launch in 2018, Quince has cornered the market of well-made, stylish wardrobe essentials that combine luxury appearance and materials with a more accessible price point. As a travel writer, I’m constantly looking for new pieces to add to my wardrobe to streamline my packing list each season, and this fall I was struck by the sheer volume of stunning basics the retailer has to offer, many of which come in under $100. 

After building a closet over the past year that’s now bursting with Quince pieces, I’ve rounded up the items I’m traveling with into the fall—as well as the items I’m adding to my shopping cart for my next haul. Made from rich cashmere, satin, and cotton, these wardrobe essentials are anything but basic, and prices start as low as $35.

Mongolian Cashmere Boatneck Sweater

Boatneck cuts have become my favorite neckline this year, so when I spotted this gorgeous cashmere knit I knew I needed it in my fall wardrobe—and I was not disappointed. The buttery-soft, ultra-lightweight sweater is perfect for the end of summer and fall weather since it keeps me cozy without getting too warm, and I love that the slightly oversized fit looks just as great tucked in as it does worn loose. It’ll be a versatile addition to my suitcase for my upcoming travels since I’ll have no trouble dressing it up or down by swapping my accessories, and at $80 it’s a fraction of the price of similar sweaters from competing brands. 

100% Organic Cotton Cropped Cardigan

I added this cardigan to my collection back in June, and since then it’s become one of the most-worn pieces in my collection even throughout the warmer months. Large tortoise-shell buttons adorn the front so I can wear it both buttoned to the top or worn open, and the breezy cotton fabric offers just enough warmth without causing me to overheat. It’s great to throw on as a casual in-flight layer with a pair of yoga pants and clogs, but I also love wearing it with jeans and ballet flats for a nicer day-to-day look. And with its $50 price tag, I’ve had a hard time keeping myself from adding another to my cart. 

100% Organic Cotton Poplin Tiered Maxi Skirt

Maxi skirts are one of my favorite closet staples since they can get three seasons of wear and immediately look put-together. The 100 percent Organic Cotton Poplin Tiered Maxi has been one of my favorite picks for the summer and even into the fall. The elastic waistband makes it so comfy to sit in, and the pockets are deep enough to securely hold my phone and keys without worrying about them slipping out. The ankle-length hem is ideal since I’m petite so it doesn’t drag along the ground, and I’m able to wear it with nearly every top in my dresser since the white is so versatile. But, if you’re looking for a less summery shade, it’s also available in black, navy, and several other pops of color. 

Italian Suede Sling Bag

Belt bags are back in style this season, and I’ve been on the lookout for a more elevated option that’s slightly more upscale and will add color to my simpler outfits. For this, I’ve been eyeing the Italian Suede Sling Bag in the shade midnight, and its spacious design makes it a great choice for travel. Gold accents add a luxurious feel that will instantly make any outfit look great, and it has a subtle pocket at the back of the bag that’s a safe place to store a passport if I wear it to the airport. It’s a significant upgrade from the sportier sling bags I have in my collection, and even with its suede exterior it still falls under $90.

Bella Stretch Barrel Jeans

Jeans aren’t necessarily known for their comfort, but I’ve found barrel jeans to be a surprisingly relaxed fit that’s great for sitting and exceptionally flattering. Since this pair is made from a stretchy blend of cotton and lyocell tencel, they’re easy to move in.They’re also baggy but not too oversized, so they can look both dressy and casual depending on the styling. I’ve worn them with ballet flats, boots, and even my favorite pair of clogs, and I have no doubt they’ll be in my suitcase throughout my October adventures. Did I mention they’re just $50?

100% European Linen Fit & Flare Midi Dress

This gingham fit and flare dress easily made it into my suitcase for every single trip over the last five months, and I feel confident saying it’ll remain a staple throughout the fall, as well. The high-quality craftsmanship is evident in this comfy linen dress that features a lined skirt and a well-fitted bodice with adjustable straps for the perfect finish. It has elastic at the back for extra give, as well as deep pockets and the perfect flowy skirt that’s just the right length for my 5’3” frame. I’m partial to the gingham pattern since that’s the one I opted for, but it’s also available in six other prints and colors, including solid black, floral, and pinstripes.

Cotton Cashmere Ribbed Tank

I tend to get rather toasty while I travel, which means I generally opt for a tank top and sweater combination so I can adjust my layers as needed. This Cotton Cashmere Ribbed Tank instantly caught my eye with its gorgeous boatneck cut and fitted finish, and I can see myself wearing it with jeans, trousers, a maxi skirt, and everything in between. It’s made from a blend of organic cotton with a little extra stretch that’s forgiving and flattering, and it comes in five stunning neutrals that’ll pair well with everything in your existing wardrobe. Any fall travel plans will benefit from having this chocolatey staple in your suitcase.

Italian Leather On-the-Go Ballet Flat

A simple pair of ballet flats can go a long way if you’re aiming to pare down your footwear selection while traveling, and the Italian Leather On-the-Go Ballet Flats are an unbeatable choice at $70. I’ve been wearing a similar pair that’s now sold out on the site, but shoppers have confirmed that these shoes are just as comfortable thanks to their “high-quality, non-slip, lightweight” design. The rounded toe shape is versatile and easy to style casually or dressed up, and the buttery soft Italian leather makes them feel far more expensive than they are.

100% Washable Silk Drawstring Wide Leg Pants

Flowy drawstring pants are among my favorite styles to wear while traveling since they’re effortlessly stylish and equally comfortable. Naturally, the next addition to my collection will be these gorgeous silk pants with an adjustable waistband, and the deep purple shade is a dream for the fall. This style is even loved by fashion experts for its versatility and packability, and this pair comes in so many shades, I’m tempted to snatch up more than one. They’re an upgrade from my typical sweatpant travel uniform, not to mention they’ll even work well for a night on the town. 

Organic Comfort Stretch Chore Jacket

It’s nearly time to break out the layers for the season, and this trendy chore coat is at the top of my shopping list for fall, especially as I’m on the lookout for pieces that won’t take up too much space in my suitcase. The basic jacket is made from organic cotton twill with a bit of spandex for some essential stretch and give, and it features patch pockets at the waist and a chest pocket for additional storage. Snag it in a smaller size for a more fitted finish or opt for an oversized fit, but rest assured this jacket will bring an effortlessly cool energy to every travel outfit. 

Water Repellent Suede Clog Mules

As a clog enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for new pairs of the sensible yet stylish slip-on shoe trend that has become the cornerstone of my travel wardrobe in recent years. After spotting the Water Repellent Suede Clog Mules, I knew they needed to be mine—especially since they’re a fraction of the price of other popular brands with similar features like cushioned insoles and a beautiful brushed exterior. The lightweight design means they won’t bog down my suitcase (although I’ll likely be wearing them most of the time anyways) and they’ve even earned thousands of five-star ratings from shoppers, so I trust their quality at $74.

Organic Cotton Relaxed Oxford Shirt

Regardless of where I’m traveling, I always make sure to stack my suitcase with a strong selection of basics that I can mix and match for my trip. Quince’s Organic Cotton Relaxed Oxford Shirt is now in the running for the role of my new favorite button down with its slightly boxy fit and large pocket design, and the 100 percent cotton construction sets it apart from competitors in both quality and comfort. I can wear it tucked in and button, or untucked and open—and for just $40, it’s a steal.

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