I'm Shopbop's Senior Fashion Director—These Are the Fall Trends I'm Not Wearing, But Here's What I'm Adding to My Closet Instead
Our take
The cyclical nature of fashion trends can feel overwhelming, but when a seasoned voice like Shopbop’s Senior Fashion Director, Caroline Maguire, weighs in, it offers a valuable filter. Her recent piece outlining the fall trends she’s consciously *avoiding* alongside her considered additions to her own closet is a refreshing shift from the relentless promotion of every emerging aesthetic. It speaks to a broader movement towards mindful consumption and a rejection of fleeting fads in favor of enduring style. Maguire’s perspective aligns with a growing desire for pieces that feel authentic and thoughtfully curated, rather than simply chasing the latest viral moment. This resonates particularly well with those seeking a more elevated and intentional approach to their wardrobes, a philosophy we champion here. See, for example, her recent endorsement of ballet flats in an elegant shade – a classic revival that feels far more considered than many of the current maximalist trends [I'm Officially Over Flip-Flops—Instead, I'm Wearing Ballet Flats In This Elegant Shade]. Furthermore, her discerning eye highlights the continued importance of foundational pieces, as evidenced by her selection of new Nordstrom staples [I Know You Like Stylish Fall Basics and Shoes—These Are the New Nordstrom Items That Matter].
Maguire’s approach isn’t about declaring certain trends “bad,” but rather about prioritizing longevity and personal style. Identifying what *won’t* work for her—and, by extension, what might not translate well into a broader, sustainable wardrobe—is a powerful strategy. It encourages a more critical eye when navigating the constant influx of new collections. This stands in contrast to the often-aggressive push to adopt every emerging aesthetic. The key takeaway is not to blindly follow trends, but to build a foundation of versatile pieces that reflect individual taste and can be styled in multiple ways. It’s a move away from the "buy, buy, buy" mentality and towards a more curated, considered approach to fashion. This resonates with a consumer base increasingly aware of the environmental and ethical implications of fast fashion and actively seeking alternatives. Even seemingly simple items, like a classic sweater, can become a cornerstone of a well-considered wardrobe, as Maguire’s endorsement of a J.Crew sweater demonstrates [If You're a Fashion Person, You Will Be Wearing This New It Sweater With Jeans and Trousers This Fall].
The significance of Maguire’s perspective extends beyond individual styling choices; it reflects a larger shift within the fashion industry itself. Retailers are increasingly recognizing the power of authenticity and the demand for curated experiences. Consumers are less interested in being told what to wear and more interested in guidance that empowers them to develop their own personal style. This requires a move away from simply showcasing new arrivals and towards providing thoughtful context, styling advice, and a deeper understanding of the pieces themselves. A tastemaker like Maguire, who embodies this ethos, becomes a valuable asset, not just for driving sales, but for fostering a genuine connection with a discerning audience. The rise of the “quiet luxury” aesthetic, with its emphasis on understated elegance and timeless design, further reinforces this trend. It’s a movement that prioritizes quality over quantity and craftsmanship over fleeting trends.
Ultimately, Maguire’s insights prompt a crucial question: Will this shift towards mindful consumption and curated style continue to reshape the fashion landscape? The move away from fleeting trends and towards enduring style represents a potentially significant realignment of consumer values and retailer strategies. As we move deeper into the fall season, and beyond, it will be fascinating to observe how this emphasis on intentionality and personal expression influences both the collections that are released and the way consumers approach their own wardrobes, prioritizing pieces that tell a story and stand the test of time.
It’s fall wardrobe planning season. Naturally, Shopbop's Senior Fashion Director Caroline Maguire is already steps ahead. Known for shaping the retail giant’s fashion vision and for serving directional personal style inspiration, Maguire is a true tastemaker. When she talks trends, we listen—and today, she’s giving us an exclusive look at what’s on her radar.
Below, Maguire shares a list of the trends she's most excited about for fall 2026, including pieces to try in early autumn. Alternatively, she's also highlighting the items she won't be wearing as much this season. Of course, these picks are just her personal favorites—wear whatever makes you feel best. With all of that in mind, keep scrolling for more on Maguire's fashion picks, including her shopping recommendations if the trends also speak to you.
In: Chinos 2.0, Out: Basic Khakis
"I’m ready to trade basic slacks for chinos with a lot more shape and volume. What feels exciting about this season’s chinos is how designers are taking such a familiar wardrobe staple and really playing with the proportions—think wider legs, exaggerated volume and relaxed silhouettes that create movement. They still have that polished versatility I love in a trouser, but the added volume gives an outfit so much more personality. I’d balance that fuller shape with a fitted knit or a more streamlined top and let the pants be the statement." — Maguire
In: Spiced Hues, Out: Quiet Neutrals
"My wardrobe has never been particularly quiet, so I’m very ready for this shift! I think we’re moving away from the idea that a sophisticated wardrobe has to revolve around simple black, white and gray and embracing a much richer, warmer palette. Spiced hues like cinnamon, paprika and deep earthy tones almost act as the new neutrals—they’re incredibly wearable, but bring so much more personality to an outfit. Add in unexpected prints, texture and embellishment, and getting dressed fseels fun again." — Maguire
In: Must-Have Mules, Out: Chunky Sneakers
"I’ll always have a place for a great sneaker in my wardrobe, but this fall I’m excited to swap some of those chunkier styles for mules. They have that same throw-on-and-go ease, but instantly make an outfit feel a little more polished and intentional. I love them with everything from denim to a great trouser or longer short, and there are so many interpretations right now that you can really find one that speaks to your personal style. It’s an easy shoe switch that immediately moves your wardrobe into fall." — Maguire
More of Caroline's Early-Fall Must-Haves
Transitional Toppers
"Transitional dressing is really about having those easy layers you can add and remove throughout the day. I’m loving cardigans, updated barn jackets and sporty windbreakers right now because they give a summer look just enough of a fall feeling without committing to anything too heavy. Throw one over a tank and shorts or a lightweight dress, and suddenly the outfit feels ready for the next season. I especially love that we’re seeing these familiar silhouettes updated with unexpected prints, hardware and color—it makes a practical layer feel much more like a fashion piece." — Maguire
Animal Prints
"Animal print is one of my favorite ways to start shifting a wardrobe toward fall because you can introduce it in really small doses. A printed bag, shoe or lightweight jacket instantly adds texture to a simple sundress, denim shorts or a great white tee. What feels especially fresh this season is that we’re moving beyond classic leopard into more abstract, imperfect markings—think tortoiseshell, spotted prints and earthy, almost terrain-like patterns. It still has that statement quality, but feels a little unexpected." — Maguire
Bermuda Shorts
"Bermuda shorts are such a perfect in-between-season piece. You still get the ease of a short, but the longer length and added volume make them feel more substantial as we move toward fall. I love how designers are playing with the silhouette right now—from relaxed, skater-inspired shapes to more polished versions with sartorial details. For transitional dressing, I’d pair them with a tank or tee now, then add a cardigan, blazer or lightweight jacket as temperatures start to cool." — Maguire
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