10 Fall Things I’m Looking Forward to Wearing and Doing (Plus, a Sale!)

What’s on your low-key fall checklist? I’m looking forward to cozy, relaxing weekends in soft sweaters and long dresses. Here are 10 more low-key things I’m hoping to wear and do (and I’d love to hear yours)…

Play with plaid. Plaid reminds me of my Michigan days, when I’d head to the cider mill and grab cinnamon donuts. For outdoor adventures, I’m digging this quilted plaid jacket. With flowers on one side and gingham on the other, it’s perfect to wear year-round. (Here’s another cute coat.)

Watch an old-school rom com. The other day, I had friends over to eat pizza and watch Green Card, and it was really fun. When the weather gets cooler, I love cuddling up and streaming schmoopy movies. On my to-rewatch list: When Harry Met Sally, Hitch, and So I Married an Ax Murderer. What would you add?

Embrace a workhorse dress. A cotton midi that looks beautiful while working from home and on romantic date nights? Sold. I’m also eyeing this one (bonus: it has pockets!).

Serve a muffin spread. For breakfasts, we’ve been baking simple muffins, like apple cinnamon and zucchini. A warm buttery treat is such a nice way to start the day.

Layer knits. V-necks. Pullovers. Cardigans. Fall is the time for all the knits and I’m here for it. (I especially love this pine green.)

Borrow a dog. I’m not a dog person (I know, heart of stone, etc.), but my friend regularly borrows her neighbor’s golden retriever. They stroll around town and chat with passersby — how sweet is that? And nine-year-old Anton has his first job (!) playing with our neighbors’ Frenchies a few afternoons a week, which is a win/win/win for everyone involved.

Wear denim on denim. My mom wore denim-on-denim in the seventies, and I’ve been sold on the effortlessly cool vibe ever since. So, let’s pull on trusty chambray shirts with vintage-style jeans. Who’s in?

Consider daytime dates. “Nothing like walking around on a Saturday to make you feel unencumbered,” my friend Pilar once said. “There’s a lot of pressure at night not to yawn.” During the day, the world is your oyster: go for a bike ride, eat a leisurely lunch, see a movie matinee, and just soak up a lazy Saturday.

Add personality to your style. The easiest way to pull together an ensemble is with accessories. (Look how cute the outfit is, above!) These days, I’m into colorblocked sneakers, gold earrings and buttery soft bags.

Sip a fall spritz. I’ve been craving spiced mocktails, and how good does this sound: a grown-up Shirley Temple made with grenadine, ginger, and cinnamon. I wish we could all beam to the same place and enjoy a batch!

Good news: Madewell is offering 25% off everything for Insider members (it’s easy and free to sign up with your email), and 30% off everything for star and icon members. Shop the full Madewell sale here.

What are you planning to wear and do this fall? We’d love to hear.

(This post is sponsored by Madewell, a brand we have worn and loved for decades. Thank you so much for supporting our beloved long-term partners.)