Fall in New York is fast. We slide from summer's steamy concrete jungle right into the bitter winter tundra, and if you blink, you could miss that handful of perfect-weather weeks sandwiched right in between. They're a favorite in the Bustle offices not just because of the cinnamon-scented breezes and fiery foliage, but because of the wardrobe swaps that come into play.
The transitional fall season calls for outerwear that's quick on its feet — able to navigate the cozy afternoon weather as easily as it does the much-chillier nighttime temps. In partnership with Abercrombie & Fitch, we asked a handful of Bustle staffers which outerwear pieces make the cut – from bright technical apparel and classic leather jackets to re-imagined denim pieces. Ahead, five ways to step into fall with weatherproof style.
Neelum
Neelum's pick: Leather Biker Jacket, $280, abercrombie.com; High Rise Mom Jeans, $88, abercrombie.com.
Describe your transitional fall outerwear style: I live for fall outerwear! Fall is my favorite season because I can finally wear all my comfy sweaters, Chelsea boots, and extensive collection of fall coats. Definitely all about being cozy while looking trendy.
What made you pick this look? I love a good leather jacket. It’s classic, edgy, and super versatile. I loved the distressing in this jacket; it gives it a lived-in rockstar look.
Tell us how you styled your look: I paired this jacket with a simple white tee, distressed jeans to match the sort of rock 'n' roll vibe, and some fun black loafers to tie the look together.
How else might you style this piece? Every outfit looks good with a leather jacket! I would also wear this piece with a cute dress, combat boots, and some statement earrings for a night out.
Elly
Elly's A&F pick: Cropped Denim Jacket, $88, abercrombie.com.
Describe your transitional fall outerwear style: I love a layered look because more layers means more clothes — and that's always a good thing in my book. It's practical, too, for when the temperatures are yo-yoing and you need to shed (or add) some materials.
What made you pick this look? I lived in cropped tops this summer, which made this cropped denim jacket feel right at home in my wardrobe. The unfinished hem adds a cool twist to a classic staple, and the oversized front pockets serve as the perfect canvas for my favorite enamel pins.
Tell us how you styled your look: I played with the boxy, oversized shape of the jacket by pairing it with a high-waisted mini skirt. Shiny black boots and a retro-inspired stripe tee underneath keep the look playful but polished.
How else might you style this piece? High-waisted jeans with a cute top would be another easy way to wear this jacket.
Jenna
Jenna's A&F pick: Girlfriend Denim Jacket, $98, abercrombie.com.
Describe your transitional fall outerwear style: After months of tanks and cutoffs, I can't wait to get back into layers and boots. I feel most myself in black and denim.
What made you pick this look? The perfect denim jacket is essential for fall. It goes with literally everything, and this mid-wash oversized cut feels a little vintage-inspired and lived in, which I love.
Tell us how you styled your look: I paired this jacket with a flouncy chiffon mini dress and some 90s-feeling combat boots. Fall is the perfect time to mix, match, and layer pieces you might not typically wear together. This look makes me feel kind of like a teen witch — and I always count that as a win.
How else might you style this piece? This is the kind of jacket I can wear year-round with anything from sundresses to my favorite jeans and tee.
Sierra
Sierra's A&F style pick: Cropped Twill Jacket, $88, abercrombie.com.
Describe your transitional fall outerwear style: During the first month or so of fall, I'm all about statement jackets that will keep me warm when it's slightly chilly out, but I definitely try to avoid anything that feels too bulky. I also tend to gravitate towards muted, autumnal colors like army green, navy, and cream.
What made you pick this look? I picked this jacket because I love its vintage, army surplus vibe. I like that it's cropped without feeling too short, and I mean, who isn't a fan of cool patches? I love the tiger patch.
Tell us how you styled your look: I decided to go for a laid-back look this month that's a little on the edgier side with the workwear style pants and skate shoes, mixed with some fun, softer elements as well — i.e. my pom-pom earrings and frilly white shirt!
How else might you style this piece? On a chillier day, I'll definitely pair this jacket with a turtle neck, a pair of sturdy denim, and some chunky black boots.
Bry
Bry's A&F Style Pick: Midweight Technical Jacket, $140, abercrombie.com; Straight Jeans, $78, abercrombie.com.
Describe your transitional fall outerwear style: I rely on classic pieces that will work for years, regardless of what's trending. So technical jackets, comfy sweaters, and shoes that go with everything (versatile leather boots and sneakers) are always on rotation in the fall.
What made you pick this look? Fall weather in NYC is unpredictable, so having a solid jacket that can handle all kinds of weather is essential. This one's warm, water-resistant, and full of plenty of pockets — always a convenient plus!
Tell us how you styled your look: I paired the jacket with a V-neck sweater, jeans with a slight cuff, and sneakers, which could easily be worn for a day at the office, in the park, or even a dinner out.
How else might you style this piece? This jacket could also be worn over a graphic tee with blue jeans and lace-up boots for a '90s-feeling vibe.
This post is sponsored by Abercrombie & Fitch.
Photos: Lauren Perlstein; Hair and Makeup: Casey Geren; Senior Editor: Jenna Wexler.
