My Fall 2024 Wishlist

On Saturday, I was scrolling mindlessly through Instagram, when I came across another influencer doing a try on video. In clip after clip, she tried on $695 boots and $425 sweaters. $595 blazers came in and out of frame. In some clips, the massive pile of bags, boxes and clothes filling one corner of her large bedroom were visible. There were dozens of pieces just cast about.

I felt physically ill.

You see, for the better part of three months, I’ve been thinking about the future of this blog, and one of the things I keep thinking about is how much giving fashion advice on the Internet has changed.  When I started, thoughtful, curated suggestions were the norm because those of us giving advice online were mostly buying our own clothing, makeup and accessories.  But as gifting and sponsorships and brand partnerships proliferated, things changed.

Once Instagram created Stories and Reels, the constant churn of content took over.  Consumerism became the clarion call.  They must sell, and you must buy.  No part of your life may remain untouched.  Decant your milk into glass jugs.  Snag this Lululemon dupe.  In fact, snag three.  Don’t miss this holiday decor from Walmart, but never question whether the influencer who drives a Rivian SUV shops at Walmart.  Of course she does, they pay her to.

So as I start putting together my own wishlist for fall, it doesn’t look like a $10,000 Shopbop shopping spree, or every.single.piece of clothing La Ligne is willing to gift me, or a Zara haul so big it takes three shipments.  It looks like pieces I’ve been thinking about buying for weeks (often waiting for a sale).  Pieces I will really use, wear, and love for longer than the length of my content calendar.  I think you will love them too.  

01. A Pave Pinky Signet Ring.  I spotted this  Cupcakes & Cashmere signet pinky ring in a Facebook ad and then couldn’t stop thinking about it.  Shiny, pretty, sparkling like a diamond in the rough.  It’s a great alternative option for a right hand ring.  If pinky rings are not your thing, this enamel signet ring and this narrower ring from Brook & York also caught my eye.

02. A Chocolate Brown Cardigan.  This Ann Taylor Boyfriend cardigan has been on my shopping list for weeks.  And now that it is 30% off it will finally be mine.  I love the length, the color, and the sleek but slightly oversized feel.  Come back tomorrow to see how I plan to style it.

03. A Bold Wrap Dress.  No other influencer sells me more pieces than Anh.  No one.  Had I seen this Farm Rio wrap dress in the store, I would have taken one look at this print and thought it wasn’t for me.  But when I saw it on Anh, I truly saw it.

I saw how perfect it would be for a conference.  Black blazer and boots for daytime, heels and big earrings for evening.  Of course, I’ll need to add a belt (probably this one).  But this print is a statement, and I intend to make it.

04. A Crescent Bag.  My life is no longer the life of a daily commuter who needs to carry a large bag full of essentials.  Things are more minimal now.  So a small Madewell crescent bag feels like a chic way to update my crossbody for fall.  This sun-faded indigo color is nice, but there are other lovely shades as well.  If you need a larger size, many influencers are carrying this one.

05. A Velvet Mary Jane.  Textures are big for fall.  Suede is the most talked about, but for my money, I like velvet.  Soft and feminine, but still perfect for fall/winter.  

If you haven’t tried Birdie’s, they are so comfortable.  I have the loafers and I love them.  So these velvet Mary Janes in deep green seem like the obvious pick.  Need a more affordable pair?  This Sam Edelman pair is worth a look.  Not sure how to care for velvet shoes?  Here are some tips, and the Scotchguard spray you need.

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