The return of Monday morning subway rides marks the end of summer, signaling the resumption of office commutes for New Yorkers. As the city’s inhabitants crowd onto trains, they present a prime opportunity to observe the latest fashion trends. Beyond the predictable attire of finance professionals, I’ve noticed a refreshing array of stylish lady jackets, button-down shirts, ballet flats, and fall-ready knits. The overall aesthetic leans towards a relaxed yet sophisticated casualness. Determined to emulate these looks without breaking the bank, I’ve curated a selection of must-haves, each priced under $160. Ahead, discover my top picks along with a few beauty essentials to enhance your workday routine. As we embark on our office journeys once more, let’s do so with a touch of elegance and sophistication. Scroll down to shop my curated list.
Workwear Wardrobe
MANGO
Tweed Jacket With Jewel Buttons
$130
Lady jackets are a hot-ticket item this season, and this green one is calling my name.
WRANGLER
Westward High Rise Boot Jean
$109
There’s no better jean cut to start wearing your fall boots with.
STEVE MADDEN
Vinetta Black Leather
$80
Mary Janes look cute with everything: skirts, jeans, trousers, shorts—you get the idea.
ANN TAYLOR
Ribbed Crew Neck Cardigan
$98
With the office AC blasting, this soft ribbed cardigan is about to be your BFF.
MANGO
Pleated Midi Skirt
$100
Luxury designers have released their versions of this trending full skirt, but you can’t beat this $100 option.
MANGO
Net Sling Back Shoes
$140
Mango is really coming through with the expensive-looking items. I did a double-take when I realized these cool slingbacks were $140.
FREE-EST
Aelia Midi
$108
Drop-waist dress, but make it totally wearable for fall.
MAEVE
The Bennet Buttondown Shir
$98
Easing into the season’s most popular color trend with this staple button-down.
& OTHER STORIES
Wide Press Crease Trousers
$119
I’ll take the whole look, please.
MANGO
Crocodile-Effect Double Handle Bag
$80
A classy work tote that won’t spiral you into credit card debt.
ANN TAYLOR
Flare Sleeve Mock Neck Sweater
$90
I’d style this top with relaxed trousers and a belt for work.
LEVI’S
Ribcage Wide Leg Jean
$108
This fall, I’m still very much a part of the anti-skinny jean team.
NIA
Samira Sweater
$94
A thick knit I can’t wait to layer with tees and turtlenecks as the temperature starts to cool.
GAP
High Rise Pleated Wide-Leg Trousers
$71
I reserve pinstripes solely for fall and winter. This year, I’ll be reaching for these $70 trousers.
PEDRO SHOES
Black Marion Leather Ankle Boots
$137
I’m patting myself on the back for finding a chic pair of black ankle boots for less than $200.
BKE
Montana Belt
$20
There’s no need to spend over $20 on a black belt, this one is proof.
J.CREW
Emilie Patch-Pocket Sweater Lady Jacket
$138
Another great lady jacket, but this one has more of a relaxed sweater feel.
ANN TAYLOR
Colorblock Crossbody Bag
$118
The crossbody you’ll never part with. It has real wardrobe longevity.
ANTHROPOLOGIE
V-Neck Halter Vest
$108
The ideal desk-to-drinks top.
VERVET
High Rise Cropped Wide Leg Cargo Pant
$65
I love the wide-leg look with fall boots.
COS
Stripe Button Shoulder Mock Neck Wool Sweater
$135
This sweater should count as loungewear.
MADEWELL
Relaxed Chino Pants
$98
Madewell is making chino pants cool again.