Looks for Less

Fall fashion is always exciting—cozy layers, rich colors, and the return of boots and jackets make it one of the most stylish times of the year. But keeping up with the trends can be expensive if you’re not strategic. The good news? You don’t have to blow your budget to look on-trend. Whether you’re eyeing oversized blazers, metallic accessories, or luxe-looking knits, there are plenty of ways to get the fall 2025 aesthetic without paying full price.

If you’re someone who loves fashion but not the price tags, this guide is for you. Here’s how to stay stylish this fall—while keeping your wallet happy.

1. Start with the Trends—Then Make a Plan

Before you shop, get familiar with what’s trending for fall 2025. This year, we’re seeing a lot of ‘90s revival (think tailored denim, chunky loafers, and turtlenecks), bold textures like faux leather and mohair, and an earthy-meets-metallic color palette—burnt orange, olive green, and bronze tones are everywhere.

Once you know what’s in, make a short list of pieces you’d actually wear. Just because something is trending doesn’t mean it fits your style—or your wardrobe. Having a plan helps you avoid impulse buys and focus on pieces you’ll get the most mileage from.

2. Thrift Like a Pro

Thrifting is still one of the best ways to score trendy pieces for less, and it’s especially great for fall staples like coats, blazers, and sweaters. Oversized jackets? Vintage stores are full of them. Chunky knits? You’ll find dozens—and often in better quality than fast fashion.

Look in neighborhoods where thrifting might be less competitive, and check both local shops and online secondhand platforms like Poshmark, Depop, thredUP, or Facebook Marketplace. You can even set alerts for certain brands or items you’re on the hunt for.

Bonus tip: Shop for fall items in the off-season. Many thrift stores price by demand, so you’ll find cheaper jackets in summer and lighter blouses in winter.

3. Get to Know Affordable Retail Alternatives

Fast fashion can be hit or miss, but there are still retailers out there doing trend-forward looks at more reasonable prices—and with better quality. Think Zara, Mango, H&M Trend, or even Uniqlo for clean basics. Just be selective. Stick to classic cuts or items that mimic designer silhouettes (but without loud logos or gimmicks).

Don’t sleep on Target’s fashion lines either—brands like A New Day and Wild Fable are constantly dropping trend-conscious pieces that feel way more expensive than they are.

And if you’re open to online shopping, check out ASOS, Cider, and Djerf Avenue-inspired shops on sites like Etsy or smaller boutiques. Read reviews and compare product photos before hitting “add to cart.”

4. Try Clothing Rental or Swap Apps

If you’re craving a high-end piece or just want to test out a trend before committing, consider clothing rentals. Services like Nuuly, Rent the Runway, and FashionPass let you try trendy items for a monthly fee—usually less than what you’d spend on one designer piece.

Not into renting? Clothing swap apps like ReClothe or local swap groups on Instagram let you trade pieces with others in your area. It’s sustainable, budget-friendly, and a great way to refresh your wardrobe without spending a cent.

5. Focus on Accessories to Update Your Look

Sometimes you don’t need a whole new wardrobe to feel on-trend—just a few statement accessories can do the trick. Fall 2025 is all about metallic bags, bold belts, and sculptural earrings. These kinds of pieces can be found super affordably on sites like AliExpress, Shein (if you’re OK with fast fashion in moderation), or even at local markets and department store sales.

A chunky scarf in a trending color? A pair of gold hoop earrings with a twist? Small investments, big payoff.

6. DIY (or Revamp) What You Already Own

Before you buy anything new, take a second look at what’s already in your closet. Can you layer that summer slip dress with a turtleneck and boots to make it fall-appropriate? Can an old pair of jeans be cropped or distressed to feel fresh again?

Get crafty—adding buttons to a plain blazer, dyeing a faded sweater, or simply re-styling items in a new way can give them a totally different vibe. Pinterest and TikTok are goldmines for DIY inspo that doesn’t require advanced sewing skills.

7. Stack Discounts and Shop Smart

When shopping online or in stores, never pay full price if you don’t have to. Use browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten to find coupon codes or get cash back. Sign up for store emails (and unsubscribe later) to get welcome discounts. Many retailers also offer price matching or discounts for students, teachers, or first-time shoppers.

Also, don’t underestimate off-price retailers like TJ Maxx, Nordstrom Rack, and Saks Off 5th—they often carry designer or premium pieces for 50–70% off. You just have to dig a little.

Style Is About Strategy, Not Spending

Being stylish isn’t about having the biggest budget—it’s about knowing where to look, what to buy, and how to wear it. Fall 2025 trends are bold, versatile, and surprisingly easy to pull off without splurging. From thrifting to DIY to strategic discount stacking, there are endless ways to look current without going broke.

So grab a pumpkin spice latte (or not), layer up, and go get those luxe-for-less looks. Your closet—and your bank account—will thank you.