It's safe to say that I got my shopping habits from my mom. To this day, our ideal weekend consists of retail therapy and iced coffee, so when she recently visited me in New York City, we knew exactly what to do. Strolling through SoHo's cobblestone streets, we stopped at all of our favorite stores. But when there are hundreds of boutiques and flagships squished into a 56-block stretch, a favorite pastime can quickly become overwhelming—unless you have a strategic plan.

Deciding to tackle our fall-fashion wish lists, we hunted for cozy seasonal separates. Being that I'm the fashion writer of the family, she relied on my expertise to point her in the right direction. Instead of gravitating toward fleeting trend pieces, I suggested timeless and versatile essentials that would carry her throughout winter. After curating the ultimate cold-weather wardrobe in less than three hours, I'm sharing my carefully selected picks below.

Ahead, discover the roll-neck sweaters, suede bags, glove boots, and more I couldn't let her leave the stores without.

The Fall Essentials to Know About

Roll-Neck Sweater

J.Crew 2025 Rollneck Sweater

There's a reason the J.Crew roll-neck has been going strong since the '80s. Made of 100% cotton, the pullover offers a relaxed fit that effortlessly layers over tees and can be worn alone just as well.

East-West Suede Bag

Prada Bonnie Medium Suede Handbag

If you're going to invest in a high-ticket item, make sure it's a piece you'll wear for years to come. The Prada Bonnie's east-west silhouette has been spotted on many runways, with the toasted chocolate coordinating with fall's warm color palette.

Burgundy Pumps

Dolce Vita Ritla Mid Heels

Burgundy has solidified itself as the color of the season, and these bow-adorned pumps make it wearable, chic, and timeless.

Animal-Print Skirt

Reformation Helen Low-Waist Silk Midi Skirt

While technically a statement piece, a tiger-print skirt elevates everything from a long-sleeve tee to a simple knit sweater. The key is styling the head-turning skirt with solid colors for an intentional, streamlined look.

Denim Button-Down

Polo Ralph Lauren Slim-Fit Denim Button-Up Shirt

One of the easiest ways to upgrade a fall look is by swapping a classic white button-down shirt for a denim iteration. Opt for a fitted silhouette to keep the ensemble polished and refined.

Glove Boots

M.Gemi The Una Bootie

I've owned this pair of glove boots for nearly a year, and it's become one of my hardest-working fall staples. Wear the shoes with straight-leg jeans and knit skirts alike.

Beaded Necklace

Erin McDermott Jewelry Amber Resin Beaded Necklace

Upgrade your fall OOTD with a resin beaded necklace. The chunky accessory visually balances the heavy textures of the season, including wool, cashmere, and cotton.

Chocolate Leather Jacket

Aritzia Falcon Unreal Leather Jacket

Favored by models, cacao-colored leather jackets add a cool-girl edge to any look. The oversize fit makes them perfect for layering over cable-knit pullovers and heavyweight sweatshirts.

Straight-Leg Jeans

AGOLDE 90's Pinch Waist Jeans

Jeans are practically synonymous with fall, and my Agolde denim has yet to fail me. The straight-leg silhouette elongates the leg and can easily be tucked into a pair of knee-high boots.

Cashmere Long-Sleeve

Intimissimi V-Neck Ultralight With Cashmere and Lace Top

The hardest-working piece in my closet is my Intimissimi long-sleeve cashmere shirt. It's easily dressed up or down, perfect for layering or wearing on its own.

Trench Coat

Gap Icon Trench Coat

The classic trench coat is a staple for a reason, easily thrown on over sweaters, dresses, and even athleisure. Best of all, this relaxed iteration comes in regular, tall, and petite sizing.

Sweaterdress

Bardot Hattie Knit Midi Dress

A ribbed sweaterdress is my go-to for elevated dinners and cocktail bars. This heavyweight V-neck find features an elegant midi length and deep hue.