As summer nears its end, it’s time to reminisce on the warm-weather pieces Team Fashionista obsessed over in August — and to look forward to the autumn wardrobe staples catching our eyes.
Shoes were clearly on the mind this month, from trendy ballet flats to classic slingbacks to fall-ready knee-high boots. There were also plenty of bows, pop-star merch items and neutral colorways for easy transitional dressing on our wish lists. Though a minimalist color palette was generally preferred, pops of color by way of flashy hair accessories and subtle floral details helped round out our wardrobes.
Ahead, see (and shop) all of our August favorites.
For Love & Lemons x Dolce Vita Claira Ballet Flats, $100, available here: “I can’t lie, I’ve never been one for ballet flats (despite 16+ years of ballet classes in my youth), but round two of Dolce Vita’s collaboration with For Love & Lemons immediately changed my mind, solely based on this bow-adorned satin slipper that’s fit for a Passenger Princess such as myself.”—Savannah Sitton, Contributing Market Editor
Brandon Blackwood Scorpio Daphne Bag, $225, available here: “As one of Fashionista’s Resident Scorpios, I obviously *had* to pre-order my signsake’s bag. I opted for the nylon, as opposed to the leather, and I can’t wait until November when I will be able to wear my love for my fellow Scorps on my sleeve.”—Liza Sokol, Sr. Audience Development Manager
Wilson Midtown Tennis Dress, $118, available here (sizes XS-XL): “Now that it’s U.S. Open season, this tennis dress (with shorts underneath) in a tennis-ball yellow colorway hasn’t left my mind. I specifically love the pleated skirt, and can only hope I get the chance to play in it soon!”—Brooke Frischer, Staff Writer
Shona Joy Raquel Short Sleeve Curved Hem Shirt, $260, available here: “I love a boxy, oversized silhouette, and this structured denim shirt seems like an ideal way to wear it in these transitional summer-to-fall moments.”—Stephanie Saltzman, Beauty Director
Christopher John Rogers Strapless Shirred Silk-Taffeta Jumpsuit, $1,895, available here (sizes XS-XL): “So much of what draws me to Christopher John Rogers is the energy and whimsy the brand brings to familiar silhouettes — its take on a black strapless jumpsuit is the perfect case in point: A fitted shirred bodice opens up into silk-taffeta balloons as trousers. Oh, and it has pockets.”—Ana Colón, Deputy Editor
Rothys The Lightweight Mega Tote, $199, available here: “I recently went away for the weekend, and this bag turned out to be just right for the occasion: big enough to hold everything I needed, the straps comfortable despite the weighty contents. While I have attempted to use this as a work bag (it’s way too big), it’s ideal for a quick trip.”—Andrea Bossi, Staff Writer
Lacoste x Bandier Colorblock Romper, $128, available here (sizes XS-L): “I recently got to see this collab in person (the quality is excellent) and have become slightly obsessed with this romper. I like how simple the color palette is, and the twist on the classic alligator logo.”—Dhani Mau, Editor-in-Chief
Bec + Bridge Moon Dance Strapless Midi Dress, $300, available here (sizes XS-XL): “I wore a similar variation of this dress to a destination wedding, and it was truly everything. From the silky smooth fabric to the way the open back detailing makes you look — this purchase wasn’t a mistake.”—Oliva Novato, Editorial Intern
Charles & Keith Pearl Embellished Gingham Slingback Pumps, $56, available here: “Ever since these pumps flashed across my screen, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about the gold and pearl accents mixed with the gingham pattern. Ask anyone who knows me: Pearls are my kryptonite. I also love the chunky heel — it’s perfect for a black mini dress or even my favorite flared jeans.”—Catie Pusateri, Editorial Intern
Nunoo Sally Air 1 Bag, $199, available here: “The promise of autumn has me loving anything leather and pocketed right now. Case in point: This utilitarian shoulder bag is a city slicker’s dream, and I love how the handy pockets make everything feel neat and organized. Another must-pack piece for fashion week.”—Savannah
Lele Sadoughi Sage Green Graduated Crystal Headband, $145, available here: “I’ve been heavily relying on headbands while I go through A Phase where I’m annoyed at my hair, and Lele Sadoughi was kind enough to send over this crystal one from its latest collection. I love the pop of green and how the crystals change color in the light, and the fact that it distracts me from what’s growing out of my head.”—Liza
Jonathan Cohen Red Dahlia Silk Unisex Shirt, $395, available here (sizes XS-L): “I’m so obsessed (Addison’s Version) with Jonathan Cohen’s short-sleeved shirts, cut from the brand’s signature original prints. I bought one for my husband a few seasons ago, but am thinking of getting another… for myself.”—Ana
Reformation Kameron Cashmere Sweater, $198, available here: “Little bows are huge right now, and this Reformation sweater nails it.”—Andrea
Henne Nico Cargo Jean, $177, available here (sizes 24-34): “My greatest shopping challenge will always be to not buy more denim. I was able to mentally justify adding this pair to my wardrobe because of its inventive seams, split features along the leg and how comfortable they are. Catch me wearing these all throughout the fall.” Brooke
Favorite Daughter The William Sweater in Almond, $378, available here: “Sorry to all those who aren’t quite ready to start thinking about sweater weather just yet, but as a fall lover, I can’t wait to embrace the season with cozy, knit-clad arms. This super-soft wool-cashmere blend with a slightly slouchy fit is an ideal layering piece I can’t wait to incorporate into my wardrobe.”—Stephanie Saltzman, Beauty Director
J.Crew Petite Relaxed-Fit Crisp Cotton Poplin Shirt, $98 (40% off with code SHOPNOW), available here (sizes 00-12): “If you’re a short person hoping to one day find a button-down shirt with a relaxed fit that doesn’t require you to roll up the sleeves in order to use your hands, here it is. I nearly cried when I put this on and saw the cuffs hit my wrists right at the perfect spot.”—Dhani
Olivia Rodrigo Spill Ur Guts Socks, $30, available here: “Being the 30-something teenage girl that I am, I’m a huge fan of Miss Olivia Rodrigo, who’s seemingly incapable of putting out anything but bangers. I like that these socks don’t read as typical artist merch, and I’ll proudly wear them to stand in the very back of one of her concerts.”—Liza
La Ligne Mini Marina Sweater, $195, sizes XS-3XL, available here: “Maybe it’s my love of knitwear or the ‘1989 (Taylor’s Version)’ announcement, but striped sweaters have really been speaking to me lately. This chunky cotton sweater can take my end-of-summer style into the beginning of fall while maintaining that coastal aesthetic (as I religiously stream ‘New Romantics’).”—Catie
Billini Oshea Boots, $130, available here: “Still obsessed with Miu Miu’s buckled biker boots from the Fall 2022 runway, but not the price tag? Same. This strikingly similar pair from Billini fits the leading boot trends this fall, and I simply can’t wait to wear them to NYFW.”–Savannah
Anine Bing Lyra Trouser in Dove, $300, available here: “A pair of flow-y, lightweight pants is a closet staple for a reason, and I love the crisp tailoring and side slit detail on these.”—Stephanie
Lilysilk The Peplos Shirt, $129, available here: “This versatile blouse has a goddess-like look thanks to its draping. Plus, the silk material makes it appear even more luxurious. I find these airy styles to be best for transitional dressing at the end of summer.”—Andrea
Maguire Shoes Vitoria Sky Blue Strappy Heeled Sandal, $250, available here: “There are a few things I love about this shoe: the floral details, the heel height (just high enough, but not too high that your feet start to scream) and the gorgeous blue color. Simply looking at these heels brightens my day.”—Brooke
Crap Eyewear The Glam Rodeo in Cream Leopard Bio/Vintage Pink, $89, available here: “The combination of cream, pink, sparkles *and* leopard is just really doing it for me here. And the frames are plant-based and biodegradable!”—Liza
Gil Rodriguez Black Via Olympia Jumpsuit, $115, available here (sizes XXS-XXL): “I love the comfort, simplicity and versatility of this classic cotton unitard, which you can read more about here.”—Dhani
Hill House Home The Mellie Top, $150, available here (sizes XS-XXL): “I’m really into Hill House’s take on the classic white tuxedo shirt — it’s made with a sheer Georgette fabric and has an elegant pleated bib that adds a feminine flair to the silhouette.”—Ana
Nia Imogene Dress, $111, available here: “I’ve been looking for the perfect romantic prairie dress and, in true Savannah form, I’ve finally found it… at the end of summer. That said, I know I’ll be equally excited to wear this one (I die for the shirred bodice and gently puffed sleeves) next summer, too.”—Savannah
Ganni Patchwork Recycled Polyester Bucket Hat, $185, available here: “I always get so many compliments on this hat, but that’s not why I love it. The brim is wide, which I like to wear all the way down to protect my face from the sun and add some allure to my vibe. Plus, it’s very lightweight and packable, which makes it an asset when traveling.”—Andrea
Jennifer Behr Mirabelle Earrings, $250, available here: “In the last few months, I’ve experienced the most intense hyperfixation on bows — but I’m not complaining. These beautiful statement earrings genuinely make me feel like a princess. I’ll be wearing them forever.”—Brooke
Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask, $50, available here: “Good sleep is one of the best things you can invest in — and so is this mask. It’s super soft, doesn’t frizz up my hair and is, crucially for an acne-prone person like myself, machine-washable.”—Dhani
Sandy Liang Mary Jane Pointe Keychain, $98, available here: “I’m still a huge fan of balletcore, and therefore of this little accessory. Keys can be so boring, but with a little pointe shoe action, they become a whole fashion moment.”—Olivia
Reformation Galatia Dress, $328 $164, sizes XS-XL, available here: “I couldn’t resist Reformation’s summer sale, so I bought this lavender maxi dress, partly for a wedding and partly because I want to live my Greek goddess fantasy. Remember Megara’s purple dress from ‘Hercules?’ She was my favorite Disney character for her sarcasm and her style, and I need to recreate her look ASAP.”—Catie
Kitteny Katja Boots, $398, available here: “Two pairs of knee boots in one month may sound extra, but I live in boots come fall and winter. Plus, this Kitteny pair deserves the attention. Sculpted similarly to Givenchy’s iconic fold-over boot and tasseled with red leather rosettes, I simply can’t explain the enormous impact these have had on me. I’m saving up for the splurge.”—Savannah
Manluu Cane Maxi Ring, $370, available here: “Looking at the geometric complexities of this ring feels enchanting. The pattern is inspired by Creole jewelry and cultural tapestries of the area, and makes for a special statement ring.”—Andrea
Burberry Somerset Check Canvas & Leather Card Case, $350, available here: “I love this wallet because it’s simple, small, but a classic. The signature Burberry check is chic, but not aggressively in-your-face like other heavily-branded items often can be.”—Olivia
Please note: Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. Some of these items were gifted. In no way do either affect our editorial decision-making.
Never miss the latest fashion industry news. Sign up for the Fashionista daily newsletter.